Frequently Asked Questions

How long do diaphragms last?

Diaphragm life has many variables. We recommend the inspection of diaphragms every 4-6 months for continuous duty applications. The major contributors to diaphragm failure are pressure, temperature, moisture and type of gas being sampled.

Can you “dead-head” the pump outlet?

For Single head pumps and multiple head pumps plumbed in Parallel, the answer is Yes. The pump is designed so that it will not fail if the inlet or outlet ports are blocked. For multiple head pumps you need to be certain that the outlet pressure does not exceed: – 30 PSIG for Micro, Mini Dia-Vac® pumps – 75 PSIG on Std. Dia-Vac® Pumps – 50 PSIG for High Performance Dia-Vac® pumps

Can the Dia-Vac® pump handle liquid?

While the Dia-Vac® is not designed to pump or transport liquid media, it can handle some amount of liquid within a gaseous stream. Liquids cause the valves to stick which reduce pump performance and diminish diaphragm life. If there is the potential for condensation in the gaseous sample, ADI recommends taking all necessary steps to prevent liquid from entering the pump head.

This may include:

  • Heating the pump head and sample line above the gas dew point
  • Installing a membrane filter
  • Mounting the pump with the outlet port facing down
  • Mounting the pump as high in the system as possible
  • Installing a Gas Cooler before the pump
  • All of the above

How should I control the flow rate on my Dia-Vac® pump?

There are many ways to control the pressure, vacuum, and flow rate on your Dia-Vac® pump. All things being equal, the diaphragm, bearings, and motor will see less stress if the flow rate is controlled on the inlet side of the pump as a function of vacuum. For more information on controlling pump performance; please see our paper at ADI Sample System Design.

In what position should the pump be mounted?

The pump can be mounted in any position as long as it is properly supported. If there is the potential for liquid to enter the pump head, it is recommended to install the pump at the highest point possible in the sample system and have the discharge port facing down.

Can I rotate the heads for easier plumbing?

Yes. The pump head can be rotated in any position to accommodate the system. *Note – For Micro (B Series) and Macro (J Series) pumps, be sure to rotate the valvebody as well as the head.

What is included in a diaphragm repair kit?

A diaphragm repair kit includes all the internal consumable parts of the pump head that are subject to wear during operation. This typically includes the diaphragm, valve discs or flappers, valve gasket, and sealing washer.

What is the standard lead time for an ADI pump?

The vast majority of shipments leave ADI in 1-2 days! Custom pumps may require more time.

What is the highest temperature a Heated Head pump can maintain?

≈200°C / 400°F. Please contact factory if your application requires higher temperatures.

How reliable are Dia-Vac® pumps?

Since the founding of ADI in 1971, Dia-Vac® pumps have run flawlessly where many other pumps have failed. These rugged pumps are designed to operate continuously in some of the toughest chemical process and environmental applications worldwide. With the proper pump selection your pump will also run without complications.

What wetted parts do you recommend for corrosive gases?

We offer Aluminum, 316 ss, Hastelloy-C, (with Teflon-coating available on each one) as well as a Solid Teflon head option for extremely corrosive applications.

Can ADI assist me with pressure drop calculations?

Yes. Our qualified technicians are pleased to assist with any pressure drop calculations. The information we need is as follows:

  • Type & Temp of Gas
  • Distance and diameter of line
  • Flow rate required
  • Sample point initial pressure

Please fill out a Quote Request and a technician will contact you and provide any assistance required.

What is ADI’s warranty?

The ADI warranty is 1 year from purchase for MFG defects. This does not include diaphragms as they are a consumable part of the pump. View our complete terms and conditions.

Can ADI pumps start up under load conditions?

For applications requiring the pump to start under positive inlet or outlet pressure, the Dia-Vac® will need to be fitted with a stronger motor than when starting under atmospheric conditions. Please contact the factory with specific staring load information and ADI’s engineering staff will be happy to assist in the correct pump/motor selection.

How do I return a pump for repair?

Please complete the Return Merchandise Authorization form. It includes all instructions for return.

What Explosion-proof / Flame-proof motors does ADI have available on the Dia-Vac® pump?

We are able to offer the following Hazardous Area standards on our pumps –

  • UL/CSA listed Class I Div. I Group B/C/D Explosion Proof
  • UL/CSA listed Class I Div. I Group C/D Explosion Proof
  • UL/CSA approved Zone I IIB+ H2 T3C IP54 Explosion Proof
  • ATEX-certified Eexd IIC Zone 1 II 2 G Flame Proof
  • Russian GOST
  • Indian PESO
  • UL approved Class I Div. II Group A/B/C/D Hazardous Area
  • UL approved Zone II IIC T3B IP44
  • Air Driven non-electric

ADI can procure other Hazardous Area motor options worldwide to fit our pumps, so please contact the factory with your specific requirements and we will be pleased to assist.