LIQUID RING PUMPS
Liquid ring pumps are ideal for hygienic applications involving cleaning fluids, entrained air, or suction lift requirements. Used widely for CIP return, tank emptying, and aerated fluid transfer, they are trusted in food, dairy, beverage, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical environments. With self-priming side-channel designs and polished stainless steel construction, they handle challenging fluids without losing prime. Alliance Fluid Handling stocks a range of complete pumps and spares in the UK for fast delivery and responsive technical support.
LIQUID RING PUMP MAKES & MODELS
CSF PUMPS
A SERIES
Features:
Single-stage liquid ring self-priming centrifugal pump; compact close-coupled design in stainless steel (AISI 316L); standard hygienic construction for CIP duties.
Benefits
Cost-effective reliable CIP return pump; handles liquids with entrained air/gas without air-lock; simple robust design for easy maintenance.
Applications:
CIP return systems in food, dairy, beverage, etc.; suitable for suction lift applications (e.g. tank emptying) where standard pumps would lose prime.
Certifications:
Food-grade hygienic design (FDA-compliant materials); optional ATEX versions for hazardous areas.
Downloads:
Flow Rates: Up to ~50 m³/h (at 50 Hz) per model.
Pressure: Up to ~35 m head (≈3.5 bar) at 50 Hz.
Temperature: Up to 140 °C
Material Compatibility: All wetted parts in 316L stainless steel; available with various sanitary connections.
AS SERIES
Features:
Sanitary liquid-ring self-priming pump (single-stage); high-efficiency side-channel design with star-shaped impeller; investment cast 316L stainless steel, electro-polished finish. IEC standard motor drive.
Benefits
Optimized for CIP scavenge duties – maintains prime when handling aerated liquids; efficient CIP return performance; easy to strip and clean; available in multiple sizes to fit duty.
Applications:
Clean-in-place (CIP) return pumping (scavenge of CIP mix); also for food, brewery, dairy, pharma transfer where suction lift or gas entrainment is present.
Certifications:
Hygienic design (for FDA/USDA applications); optional ATEX-compliant models for explosive environments. (Meet industry sanitary standards.)
Downloads:
Flow Rates: 2 to 55 m³/h flow range (varies by impeller size).
Pressure: Heads up to ~45 m (single-stage) – approx. 4.5 bar at 50 Hz (higher with two-stage version). Max operating pressure ~6 bar.
Temperature: Suitable for fluids up to CIP solution temperatures (90 °C or more); can tolerate hot cleaning liquids and steam sterilization cycles (EPDM seals for ~140 °С SIP).
Material Compatibility: All product-contact parts in 316L SS (electropolished Ra≤0.8 μm); hygienic elastomers (FDA-grade EPDM); various sanitary fittings (RJT, Tri-Clamp, DIN etc.).
ASH SERIES
Features:
Two-stage hygienic self-priming liquid-ring pump (dual impellers) for higher heads; same stainless steel 316L construction and CIP-oriented design as AS series. Heavy-duty build for high-pressure CIP duties.
Benefits
Delivers higher discharge pressure while handling aerated CIP liquids; ideal for long CIP return lines or deeper suction lifts; still easy to clean and maintain; rugged and long-lasting.
Applications:
CIP return applications requiring higher pressure (large systems or high vertical lifts); evacuating vessels/pipelines in food, beverage, dairy industries; any air-liquid pumping tasks where extra head is needed.
Certifications:
Hygienic standard (food & pharma grade materials) and explosion-proof options (ATEX) available. Meets industry sanitary norms (e.g. EHEDG/3A equivalent).
Downloads:
Flow Rates: 2 to 55 m³/h (similar range as AS single-stage) with selected impeller size.
Pressure: Heads up to ~60 m (≈6 bar) thanks to two-stage configuration (greater pressure capability for demanding CIP circuits).
Temperature: CIP and SIP compatible (operates with hot cleaning solutions up to ~90 °C, short-term to ~140 °С for sterilization).
Material Compatibility: 316L stainless steel wetted parts with smooth finish; EPDM/FKM seals available for chemical and temperature resistance; hygienic design with no crevices.
APV PUMPS
WS+ SERIES (IEC VERSION)
Features:
Ws+ series self-priming centrifugal pump (IEC motor version) featuring APV’s unique high-efficiency impeller and eccentric air-screw design. Hygienic end-suction pump optimized to form a liquid ring internally for CIP return service.
Benefits
20–90% more efficient than traditional liquid-ring pumps, with significantly lower noise output. Maintains prime on aerated fluids while consuming less energy. Easy to service – many parts interchangeable with standard W+ pumps. Certified for hygienic use (EHEDG and optional 3-A).
Applications:
CIP return pumping (foods, dairies, breweries) – removing cleaning solutions with entrained air; also suitable for foamy product transfer. Ideal for hygienic processes requiring quiet, efficient self-priming pump (e.g. dairies, beverage CIP systems).
Certifications:
EHEDG-approved design; 3-A Certified (optional). Complies with EU and US sanitary standards. ATEX versions available for explosive atmospheres (on request).
Downloads:
Flow Rates: Max: ~90 m³/h at 50 Hz (IEC). Three size models (20/15, 30/30, 44/50) to cover a range of flow demands.
Pressure: Max head: ~6.5 bar (65 m) at 50 Hz. (Higher head when run at 60 Hz with NEMA motor). Provides ample pressure for CIP return duties in medium-sized systems.
Temperature: Operating range 0–95 °C (for product/CIP liquid). Can handle hot CIP solutions; short-term up to ~138 °C (9.5 bar model at 60 Hz) for cleaning/sterilization.
Material Compatibility: All wetted parts in 316L stainless steel; sanitary O-rings (EPDM standard) and mechanical seals. Surface finishes and elastomers meet food-grade specs; pump interior designed for full clean-in-place drainage.
W+ SERIES (NEMA VERSION)
Features:
Ws+ series self-priming pump (NEMA 60 Hz version) with the same liquid-ring forming impeller and air-screw technology as the IEC model. Stainless steel, close-coupled sanitary design.
Benefits
All the efficiency and noise-reduction benefits of Ws+ apply, with higher performance under 60 Hz operation (U.S. standard motor). Maintains prime on CIP return flow with minimal cavitation risk, and shares common spares with W+ pumps. Robust yet low-maintenance design for food-grade service.
Applications:
Clean-in-place return pumping in high-capacity U.S. processing plants (dairy, beverage, pharma) – efficiently evacuates CIP solutions with entrained air/foam. Also suitable for any 60 Hz hygienic pumping tasks requiring self-priming capability.
Certifications:
Meets EHEDG criteria and optional 3-A compliance for sanitary equipment. Constructed to FDA and USDA standards for materials.
Downloads:
Flow Rates: Max: ~110 m³/h at 60 Hz (higher RPM yields increased capacity).
Pressure: Max head: ~9.5 bar (95 m) at 60 Hz – delivering strong pressure for large CIP systems or long pipe runs.
Temperature: Designed for ambient to ~95 °C fluids; tolerates hot water/caustic CIP and can be steam-sterilized (~140 °C) intermittently. (EPDM seals standard for high-temp duty.)
Material Compatibility: 316L stainless steel pump casing, impeller and air-screw; smooth hygienic finish. Food-safe elastomers (EPDM, FKM options) for CIP chemicals. Built for full cleanability and drainability.
ALFA LAVAL PUMPS
MR SERIES
Features:
Hygienic liquid-ring self-priming pump series (models MR 166S, 185S, 200S, 300). Heavy-duty stainless steel construction (AISI 316L wetted parts, duplex steel impeller) with an external single mechanical seal for maximum hygiene. Side-channel design creates a “liquid ring” for suction.
Benefits
Specifically engineered for CIP return duties – reliably pumps liquids with entrained air/gas that would air-lock standard pumps. Proven design with excellent suction capability (vacuum drawing action) ensures stable performance even as fluid properties change. Long service life in tough CIP applications (robust build, decades of use). Low maintenance and easy operation.
Applications:
Primarily used as CIP return pumps in food, dairy, brewery, beverage, and pharmaceutical processing. Also suitable for pumping any process liquids containing air or foam (e.g. used on filling lines, tank emptying where air ingress occurs). Ideal for cleaning-in-place circuits and recovery of cleaning solutions.
Certifications:
3-A sanitary compliant (USA); meets CE and EHEDG hygienic equipment guidelines. Designed to meet FDA and EU food safety standards. (Options for ATEX motors if required in explosive environments.)
Downloads:
Flow Rates: Max capacity: ~80 m³/h. (Three main sizes cover a broad flow range up to 80 m³/h at 50 Hz.)
Pressure: Max differential pressure: ~5 bar at 50 Hz (up to ~5.3 bar per Alfa Laval specs). Capable of ~5 bar discharge for CIP fluids.
Temperature: Fluid temps from approx. -10 °C up to +140 °C (with EPDM seals). Suitable for hot caustic CIP and even steam sterilization (within specified limits).
Material Compatibility: All product-contact metal in 316L or duplex stainless steel; EPDM food-grade elastomers (FDA compliant). Non-product contact parts also stainless where needed (motor shroud, legs). Sanitary design with electropolished surfaces and drainable casing.
FRISTAM PUMPS
FZX SERIES
Features:
Sanitary liquid-ring side-channel pump series (FZX) with special turbine-style impeller and side channels. 316L stainless steel construction; close-coupled design. Self-priming and fully CIP cleanable/steamable.
Benefits
Maintains prime even when pumping aerated or foamy liquids, thanks to its impeller/housing design. Excellent suction lift – can evacuate tanks and lines completely during CIP, eliminating need for separate air eliminators. Gentle pumping action for shear-sensitive products (e.g. yeast, cream). Reduces water/chemical usage by removing more residual liquid. Can serve multiple CIP circuits with one pump. Highly reliable and easy to clean.
Applications:
CIP return pumping in breweries, dairies, beverage plants (evacuating fermenters, kettles, tanks); unloading tankers (milk collection trucks); pumping products with entrained gas or requiring gentle handling (creams, yeast slurries). Also general food/pharma applications requiring self-priming.
Certifications:
3-A Certified sanitary design (US); meets EHEDG guidelines for cleanability. Fully clean-in-place and steam-in-place capable. ATEX variants available for explosion risk areas.
Downloads:
Flow Rates: Max flow: ~90 m³/h (400 gpm) for largest model. Various sizes available (FZX 2000, 2100, 2200, etc.).
Pressure: Max pressure: ~7 bar (100 psi). Capable of ~70 m head in two-stage versions if applicable. Normal single-stage models handle ~5–6 bar.
Temperature: Designed for CIP fluid temperatures (up to ~95 °C continuous). All FZX pumps are fully CIP/SIP capable – they can be steam sterilized (to 135–140 °C) and support hot caustic/acid flows.
Material Compatibility: Wetted parts in 316L SS with smooth, crevice-free finish; internal seal options (single, flushed, double) in FDA materials (EPDM, FKM). FZX pumps are fully drainable and meet high hygienic standards.
GEA PUMPS
SIPLA SERIES
Features:
GEA Hilge SIPLA – a single-stage self-priming side-channel pump line for hygienic applications. All-stainless steel construction (wet end entirely 316L) with close-coupled or bearing-bracket variants. Exceptional suction performance even on gas-rich media. Can run in both directions (clockwise or counterclockwise).
Benefits
Highly reliable CIP return “master” pump – empties tanks and lines with high gas content efficiently. Shortens process/cleaning times due to strong suction capability. Very robust design for long service life under tough conditions. Flexible installation (multiple configurations, including mobile units). Reversible flow allows versatile use (can fill and empty with one pump). Low maintenance, with modular options to adapt to customer needs.
Applications:
CIP return and tank emptying in beverage, food and pharmaceutical plants (designed to pump product and CIP with one pump). Handles media with high gas content or froth (e.g. fermenter CIP, product recovery). Also suitable for hygienic process pumping where self-priming is needed (e.g. lifting liquids from sumps, filling/emptying processes).
Certifications:
Engineered to meet 3-A and EHEDG hygienic standards. All stainless design and cleanability ensures full compliance for food/pharma use. Fast-track versions available for quick delivery.
Downloads:
Flow Rates: Max flow: ~80 m³/h (at 50 Hz). Several sizes cover small to mid-range flows (slightly lower max at 60 Hz ~65 m³/h).
Pressure: Max head: ~50 m (5 bar) at 50 Hz, or up to 60 m on 60 Hz. Nominal operating pressure PN10 (10 bar design).
Temperature: Fluid operating temp up to 95 °C continuous; can handle SIP (steam) at 140 °C for sterilization. Suitable for hot CIP chemicals and sterilization cycles.
Material Compatibility: All wetted parts in 316L stainless steel, with superior surface quality (hygienic polish). Variety of hygienic seal options (single, flushed, etc.) to meet sterile requirements. Elastomers FDA-compliant; motors available with stainless shrouds.
INOXPA PUMPS
ASPIR SERIES
Features:
INOXPA ASPIR – a sanitary side-channel self-priming pump with a compact monoblock design and top-mounted impeller (vertical inlet/outlet). Specially designed to create strong suction for liquids containing air or gas. External mechanical seal (with no spring contact to product) for hygiene. Hygienic IEC motor with stainless shroud and adjustable legs.
Benefits
Primarily used as a CIP return pump (its main intended use) – efficiently draws mixtures of air and liquid without losing prime. Can also handle negative suction situations (lifting fluid from below) with initial priming. Versatile in pumping even near-boiling liquids and volatile solvents (e.g. alcohol, acetone) without cavitation. Smooth operation and easy cleaning make it reliable in food/pharma processes.
Applications:
CIP return in food, beverage, and pharmaceutical plants (the ASPIR is built for returning cleaning solutions). Also used for tank/bowser unloading, filtration circuits (can pull liquid through filters under vacuum), and pumping of products like wine, oils, syrups and other fluids that may vaporize or contain gas.
Certifications:
Hygienic compliance with FDA and EU food contact regulations. Designed according to EHEDG principles (sanitary, easy to clean). (3-A certification not stated, but materials and design are of sanitary grade.) ATEX certified versions available for flammable solvents (on request).
Downloads:
Flow Rates: available in multiple models/impeller trims to match required duty (covers typical CIP flow ranges, e.g. up to ~50–70 m³/h). (Exact capacity depends on selected size and speed.)
Pressure: roughly up to 4–5 bar for larger models (side-channel design yields moderate pressure; adequate for CIP return loops). (Specific head determined by model’s curve.)
Temperature: Handles product temperatures close to boiling (e.g. 95 °C CIP solutions). Can tolerate SIP steam temperatures (~130–140 °C) intermittently for sterilization. Standard operating temp range around -10 °С to +120 °С (with appropriate seals).
Material Compatibility: Pump casing, impeller, diffuser in 316L stainless steel (cold-formed and cast components). Highly smooth, crevice-free surfaces for cleanability. FDA-compliant elastomers (EPDM standard). Hygienic design with drain port option.
PACKO PUMPS
CRP SERIES
Features:
Packo CRP series air-handling CIP return pumps. Hygienic centrifugal pumps with a patented air-handling (liquid-ring) design based on a standard centrifugal impeller. Pump casings made from heavy-gauge 316L stainless steel (cold-rolled, non-porous, electropolished); open or closed impellers in 316L or duplex steel. Crevice-free, fully drainable construction.
Benefits
Perfectly cleanable EHEDG-certified design ensures no product trapping (ideal for high hygiene applications). Capable of pumping a liquid/air mixture without loss of prime – ideal as CIP return pump or for tanker unloading. Higher efficiency than traditional liquid ring pumps (improved hydraulic design). Low NPSH requirement (reduces cavitation risk). Quiet operation and robust construction for long life. Easy to maintain (standardized components, only two mechanical seal sizes for entire range).
Applications:
Specifically designed as CIP return pumps for dairies, breweries, beverage plants, distilleries, etc.. Also effective for unloading milk or beer tankers (can pull mixture of product and air). Suitable for any hygienic process requiring self-priming or pumping foamy liquids (food, pharma, biotech cleaning circuits).
Certifications:
EHEDG certified; materials comply with EC 1935/2004, FDA, USP Class VI. Optional ATEX rated versions for explosive environments. (Note: CRP series is designed to meet stringent European hygiene standards; Packo also offers a CRP+ variant with 3-A certification for the US market.)
Downloads:
Flow Rates: ~120 m³/h for largest model (CRP series). Smaller models cover lower flow ranges as needed.
Pressure: ~75 m (≈7.5 bar) for the range. Sufficient to serve CIP duties in large systems.
Temperature: ~140 °C – can handle hot CIP solutions and steam sterilization. (Designed for full CIP/SIP.)
Material Compatibility: All wetted parts are 316L stainless steel, with polished surfaces (impellers and casings electropolished to <0.8 µm Ra). Elastomers available in EPDM, FKM, FEP-FKM, etc., all FDA and EU compliant. Mechanical seals in hygienic design (single, quench, or double). Sanitary clamp or thread connections standard.
MDM PUMPS
CR SERIES
Features:
MDM “CR” range liquid-ring self-priming pumps. High-end custom-engineered hygienic pumps machined from solid 316L stainless steel bar (smooth crevice-free surfaces). Side-channel liquid ring design for pumping product-air mixtures. Heavy-duty bearings and build for longevity.
Benefits
Designed to handle mixtures of air and liquid without losing prime – ideal for CIP return and vessel scavenging. Extremely durable construction (“built to last” even in intensive applications). Widely used in food, brewery, dairy and pharma sectors for their reliability. Can be tailored to specific requirements; compliance with myriad standards (e.g. ASME BPE for pharma) ensures suitability for critical applications.
Applications:
CIP return pumping for dairy, brewery, beverage and pharmaceutical plants (emptying tanks, lines, removing final residues). Also used for unloading road tankers, and any hygienic duty requiring self-priming of foaming liquids. Essentially a premium solution for processes where reliability and compliance are paramount.
Certifications:
Can be built to meet stringent standards: 3-A, EHEDG, FDA, ASME BPE, ATEX – as required. Each unit can be certified to applicable industry norms.
Downloads:
Flow Rates: Available in various models (e.g., CR50, CR60, etc.) to match needed capacity – typical flow rates per pump on the order of 20–60 m³/h (exact performance depends on model and impeller trim).
Pressure: Capable of developing substantial head (comparable to other twin-channel CIP pumps, ~4–6 bar range). Each pump is sized to application; high-pressure versions available if needed.
Temperature: Operating temperature range covers typical CIP temps and beyond (e.g. -10 °C up to 140 °C with appropriate seals). Suitable for hot CIP solutions and steam sterilizing conditions.
Material Compatibility: Fully stainless steel wet-end (316L) with bespoke machining for smoothness. Hygienic elastomers (EPDM, FFKM, etc.) available. Can be supplied with USP VI, FDA compliant materials for biotech use. No cast surfaces – eliminating porosity.
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