portable chemical transfer pumps

Portability is a popular request for operators seeking a versatile, multi-purpose pumping solution. A portable chemical transfer pump, allows fluids to be moved safely and efficiently across multiple locations, applications or processes without the need for fixed installation.

Global Pumps offers a wide range of portable chemical transfer pumps designed to handle the harshest chemical applications. In this article, our team outlines the different types of pump available, where each option is best suited, and how mobile pump configurations can improve safety, efficiency and flexibility on site.

Chemical transfer pumps

Chemical pumps 

play a critical role in transferring dangerous chemicals and liquids from one place to another. Depending on the application, a portable chemical pump may be required to handle aggressive chemicals, abrasive slurries, viscous fluids or precise dosing tasks.

Most chemical transfer pumps also offer leak-free operation which guarantees the integrity of your site and the safety of your pump operators. It’s important to note that when transferring chemicals, chemical compatibility is important to ensure the pump can withstand the nature of the liquid. Global Pumps’ free chemical compatibility chart can assist in determining the most suitable pump materials for your application.

Types of portable chemical transfer pumps

There are a wide variety of portable chemical transfer pumps available, each suited to different operating conditions and fluids. Common options include drum pumps, peristaltic hose pumps, air operated diaphragm pumps and magnetic drive pumps. Many of these pumps can also be configured as mobile pumps using trolleys, roll frames or skids.

Portable Drum Pumps

Drum Pumps are a popular portable chemical pump option for applications requiring intermittent operation. As the name suggests, they are designed for transferring to and from drums, including 20L, 200L and IBCs. Varying tube sizes allow for customisation depending on what your application demands.

Available in manual, pneumatic and electric drive options, drum pumps can be configured to suit a wide range of chemicals. Electric drum pumps are available with IECex/flame-proof certification to ensure safe chemical transfer in hazardous environments. A variety of drum pump tubes and materials of construction are also available to ensure chemical compatibility.

Global Pumps' handy Drum Pump Selector can assist you in identifying the most suitable portable chemical transfer pump for your application.

Portable Peristaltic Pumps

Peristaltic pumps are well suited to applications involving abrasive, corrosive or viscous fluids, including slurries with a high solids content. As a portable peristaltic pump solution, they are commonly installed in applications that demand accurate and repeatable dosing - particularly in chemical processing, laboratory and manufacturing industries.

Thanks to their durability, reliability and leak-free operation, peristaltic hose pumps are a popular choice for portable chemical transfer and mobile slurry pump applications. Different hose materials are available to suit a wide range of aggressive chemicals.

In many applications, peristaltic pumps are mounted on stainless steel trolleys to allow for portability across operations. Where trolley mounting is not practical, larger units can be installed on skids with fork-lift pockets for ease of transport.

Application examples: Portable Peristaltic pumps on trolleys

• A NSW-based manufacturer required a simple and reliable way to batch a resin-based product several times per week. A Verderflex Dura 35 mounted on a trolley was selected, allowing the pump to be easily moved into position when required and stored away when not in use. The pump’s ability to deliver accurate, timed batch dosing ensured consistency and control with every batch.
• In a separate construction application, a Verderflex Dura 15 portable peristaltic pump was supplied for grout application around hundreds of door frames. The mobile pump setup allowed crews to work faster across multiple locations, reduce grout waste and maintain a cleaner work site.

These examples highlight how portable peristaltic pumps can improve efficiency, accuracy and mobility across a wide range of chemical and construction applications.

See more application examples on Global Pumps’ Instagram.

AODD Mobile Pumps

Air Operated Double Diaphragm pumps offer leak-free operation with variable flow rates and discharge pressures, giving operators greater control over pump output. Available in varying materials of construction, AOD pumps are a popular portable chemical pump option for applications requiring safe handling of hazardous fluids.

AODD pumps can run dry without damage, are self-priming from a dry start, and are driven by compressed air. This makes them ideal where electricity is unavailable or where sparks pose a safety risk.When mounted to a trolley or a roll-frame, AOD pumps function as highly flexible mobile pumps suitable for chemical transfer, waste handling and slurry applications.  

Above: Verderair Air Operated Diaphragm Pump mounted to a roll-frame.

Magnetic Drive Pump

Magnetic drive pumps are seal-less centrifugal pumps designed for leak-free transfer of corrosive or hazardous chemicals, including aggressive or solids-laden liquids. As a portable centrifugal pump option, mag-drive pumps offer excellent chemical resistance and reduced maintenance requirements.

Constructed with non-metallic wetted parts and heavy duty housings, mag drive pumps are suitable for demanding environments. When configuring these as a mobile pump, careful consideration should be given to the trolley or skid materials to ensure durability and corrosion resistance.

Above: Chemical Pump fixed to a tank, mounted to a skid with an electrical control panel.

Trolley Mounted Pumps

Trolley mounted pumps provide a practical solution for applications where pumps need to be moved frequently between tasks, process areas or job sites. Global Pumps supplies a comprehensive range of trolley-mounted pump solutions designed to improve mobility, safety and operational efficiency.

By mounting pumps to a trolley, operators can address multiple pumping requirements with a single unit, simplifying equipment management and reducing downtime. The compact, space-saving design allows pumps to be manoeuvred easily within existing facilities and integrated into production lines with minimal disruption.

Trolley mounted pumps also improve workplace safety by eliminating heavy lifting and reducing manual handling risks. Built for durability and ease of movement, these mobile pump systems offer excellent adaptability across a wide range of chemical, industrial and construction applications.

Need help selecting a portable chemical transfer pump?

Not every pumping application is the same, and selecting the right portable chemical transfer pump can require a tailored approach. With over forty years’ experience supporting the chemical industry, Global Pumps can provide expert guidance and best-practice advice.

Contact the Global Pumps team today to discuss your applications and find the most suitable mobile pump for your needs.