Knowledge centre

Material abbreviations at dosing pumps explained

When choosing a dosing pump, it is essential to fully understand the materials used in the fluid- touching components. These materials determine not only the chemical resistance of the pump, but also its service life, safety and suitability for specific applications such as dosing acids, bases, solvents or disinfectants. Emec dosing pumps use a series of standard abbreviations to designate the materials used. Without an understanding of these abbreviations, it can be difficult to judge whether a pump is suitable for your chemical medium or operating conditions. Below, the most common material abbreviations are clearly explained so you can make the right choice with confidence.

Pumphead materials

PVDF - Polyvinylidene fluoride

Properties

  • High chemical resistance
  • Temperature range: -10 to +65 °C
  • Resistant to aggressive acids and bases
  • High mechanical strength

FP - Fluoroplastic (PVDF - Polyvinylidene fluoride)

  • Features:
    • High chemical resistance
    • Temperature range: -40 to +140 °C
    • Resistant to aggressive acids and bases
    • High mechanical strength

PP - Polypropylene

Properties

  • Suitable for less aggressive chemicals
  • Lightweight and cheap
  • Temperature range: -10 to +40 °C
  • Not suitable for solvents such as toluene or acetone

SS - Stainless Steel (usually AISI 316L)

Properties

  • Very high mechanical strength
  • Highly suitable for high temperatures and pressure
  • Temperature range: -10 to +90 °C
  • Excellent corrosion resistance in many applications

PMMA - Polymethyl methacrylate

Properties

  • Commonly used in self-venting pumps such as AMS LPV
  • Transparent material, convenient for visual inspection
  • Suitable for high-viscosity liquids

PMMA - Polymethyl methacrylate

O-ring materials

EPDM - Ethylene-Propylene-Diene Monomer

Properties

  • Good resistance to heat, water, acids and bases
  • Not suitable for oils and hydrocarbons

FKM - fluorocarbon rubber (e.g. Viton®)

Properties

  • High chemical and thermal resistance
  • Suitable for solvents, oils, acids and gases

Ball materials in non-return valves

Ceramic

Properties

  • Very hard and wear-resistant
  • Excellent resistance to chemical attack
  • Often used in PVDF and PP pumpheads

Stainless steel

Properties

  • Mechanically strong
  • Used in combination with SS pump heads