Magnetic drive pumps are a go-to solution when leakage isn’t an option. By eliminating mechanical seals, they reduce emissions, cut maintenance, and boost reliability. But before you install one, there’s an important choice to make: should you go with metallic or non-metallic construction?
Metallic Magnetic Drive Pumps
Materials: Stainless steel, Hastelloy, Alloy 20, titanium.
When to choose metallic:
- High temperatures – Metals handle the heat where plastics can’t.
- High pressures – Strong casing walls keep you safe under elevated system loads.
- Abrasive fluids – Metals generally outlast polymers against wear.
- Hydrocarbons and solvents – Better resistance to swelling or stress cracking.
Keep in mind: Metallic pumps usually cost more and can still be vulnerable to specific forms of corrosion (e.g., chlorides on stainless steel). They’re also heavier and can require more energy.
Non-Metallic Magnetic Drive Pumps
Materials: ETFE, PFA, polypropylene, PVDF.
When to choose non-metallic:
- Corrosive chemicals – Plastics often outperform metals in strong acids and caustics.
- Moderate operating conditions – Ideal where temperatures and pressures are not extreme.
- Budget considerations – Typically lower upfront cost.
- Ease of handling – Lightweight and easier to install.
Keep in mind: Non-metallic pumps have lower mechanical strength, limited temperature range, and may degrade under UV exposure or long-term stress.
Making the Call
The right choice depends on your process:
- Strong acids and caustics at moderate temps? → Non-metallic.
- Hot, pressurised, or solvent-based fluids? → Metallic.
- Fluids with abrasives present? → Metallic.
- Looking for cost savings with chemical resistance? → Non-metallic.
Bottom Line
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The right magnetic drive pump is the one that balances your fluid properties, operating conditions, and lifecycle costs. Getting it wrong can mean expensive downtime and premature failures. Getting it right means years of trouble-free operation.
