March 2017 – Australian Pump Industries (Aussie Pumps) has released a high capacity diesel fuel transfer pump with ATEX flame proof rating. Called the B3XRA-ATEX, the big 3”x 3” pump delivers a maximum flow of 1,500 litres per minute with a maximum head of 31 metres.

The pump is self-priming, unlike regular centrifugal pumps, with the ability to operate even with depressions of air inside the pump. That ability prevents air lock. Instead, the air and diesel fuel can be mixed together at the impeller. The air can then separate from the fuel which continues to circulate, pulling air out of the suction line until the pump is primed.

“These self-priming centrifugal fuel pumps are much simpler than gear or vane pumps,” said Aussie Pumps’ Chief Engineer, John Hales. “As the impeller turns, it creates a vacuum. Atmospheric pressure then allows the fuel in the tank to push it into the suction line and into the pump,” he added.

That self-priming facility means that the pump can draw fuel up from a vertical head, something a normal centrifugal pump simply can’t do. Seals are viton/carbon/alumina as standard, and are compatible with pumping diesel fuel and light oils. The B3XRA is powered by a flameproof heavy duty motor with IP55 protection. The motor is ATEX certified.

All Aussie Pumps are flame proof and the unit is manufactured in accordance with ATEX standard 94/9/CE II 2GEX D IIC T4. The high flow, high performance fuel transfer pump is ideal for mine sites, earthmoving contractors, transfer of marine diesel fuel or feeding large generation plants. It can also be used for waste oil collection and for heating oil transfers.

“ATEX certified flame proof motors are designed for transferring diesel fuel oil in hazardous environments,” said Hales. “The new 3”pump is one of a complete series to be introduced in our range of fuel handling equipment over the coming months,” he concluded.