Introduction
Transferring abrasive and viscous fluids is a common challenge across various industries, including food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and mining. Hose-based pumps provide a dependable, low-maintenance solution that ensures smooth operation while enhancing hygiene, efficiency, and safety. Their ability to handle difficult fluids without frequent repairs or downtime makes them a preferred choice for modern industrial processes.
Challenges in Handling Abrasive and Viscous Fluids
Abrasive fluids, such as those containing solids or filtration agents, can cause rapid wear to pump parts. Viscous fluids, such as syrups and fruit purees, require pumps that maintain a consistent flow despite their thickness and resistance. Without the right technology, production can slow down, contamination risks increase, and maintenance costs escalate.
Why Hose-Based Pumps Are the Solution
Hose-based pumps are uniquely suited for these tasks because:
- The fluid only comes into contact with the inner surface of the hose, thereby reducing the risk of contamination.
- The hose material withstands abrasion and chemical interactions.
- They deliver accurate and steady flow rates, even when dealing with thick or particle-laden fluids.
- The simple design makes maintenance quicker and less costly.
This approach makes hose-based pumps ideal for both harsh and sensitive processing environments.
Advantages of Clean-in-Place Pumps
Cleaning equipment is vital for hygiene-sensitive industries. Clean-in-place pumps integrated into hose-based systems allow cleaning without stopping operations or dismantling machinery. Features like automatic retractable shoes help clean the pump and downstream piping efficiently while avoiding hose damage from compressions during high-temperature cleaning.
Benefits include:
- Faster cleaning cycles.
- Reduced downtime and labour.
- Extended hose lifespan.
- Improved compliance with hygiene standards.
Energy Savings and Environmental Impact
Efficient operation is not only about performance but also about cost and sustainability. Hose-based pumps paired with clean-in-place pumps allow users to turn off the pump during cleaning cycles. For example, a facility operating around the clock with multiple daily cleaning sessions can reduce energy use by up to 16%, lowering both electricity costs and carbon footprint.
Applications in Key Industries
Hose-based pumps are used in a variety of processes, including:
- Brewing – yeast dosing, flavouring, colour additives.
- Food processing – fruit puree transfer, stabilisation agents like PVPP and silica gel.
- Pharmaceuticals and cosmetics – handling sensitive compounds that require sanitary conditions.
- Industrial applications – abrasive slurry transfers in mining or wastewater treatment.
Their adaptability makes them suitable for both batch and continuous processes.
Compliance with Hygiene Standards
Industries that handle consumables or medical products are required to meet strict hygiene regulations. Hose-based pumps ensure compliance by:
- Reducing contamination points.
- Supporting cleaning at the required velocities.
- Meeting food safety standards such as FDA, EC1935, and 3A.
These features safeguard product integrity while streamlining production workflows.
Cost Benefits
In addition to improving safety and reliability, hose-based pumps reduce operational costs by:
- Minimizing maintenance downtime.
- Extending hose life, avoiding frequent replacements.
- Saving energy during cleaning cycles.
- Reducing labour and cleaning-related disruptions.
For facilities seeking to reduce expenses while enhancing throughput, these pumps offer measurable benefits.
Conclusion
Handling abrasive and viscous fluids doesn’t have to mean sacrificing efficiency or safety. Hose-based pumps, especially when integrated with clean-in-place pumps, offer an ideal solution that balances durability, hygiene, and energy efficiency. Whether in brewing, food processing, or industrial sectors, this technology ensures reliable performance, regulatory compliance, and cost savings, making it a vital asset for modern operations.