Cold ethanol pumps

Seems like they should have something viable up in Alaska to transfer fuel during the winter months.

5 Likes

which is why I have the CPE in hand now :wink:

1 Like

Hows she go?

1 Like

How’s she working so far? Magnatex has a mag drive rated rated to -101c but they want almost $12k​:neutral_face::money_mouth_face: plus it requires a constant flow of N2 as a blanket to prevent I’ve buildup on the magnet housing. I’ll post the spec sheet when I get into work. I have a feeling that the local fire inspectors won’t approve anything that isn’t rated for the exact temp/pressures Im running. More and more it’s looking like a large industrial vacuum and a nitrogen generator to push and pull is the safest, most flexible and best valued option​:thinking:

4 Likes

Here is some info on a Magnatex Mag Drive Pump MAXP pump rated to -101c. I have not used one nor do I own one but thought I’d share for informational purposes. See the attached document for the data sheet and quote:
Magnatex_QUOTE M-28152.pdf (166.4 KB)

They have a -760c version for around $7k.

5 Likes

thank you @Jay-TL!

Having a pump that is actually rated, that one can show the local fiefdom’s box ticker, if the subject ever comes up, seems like an invaluable thing to have up ones sleeve.

especially as we all know @Dred_pirate’s solution is likely to inspire apoplexy in a regulator of any ilk.

5 Likes

That thing is way better than the eco pumps for sure.

2 Likes

No problem glad I can contribute. It’s been a pain in the ass trying to find something actually rated for -80c at the pressures I need. Although it pains me to spend so much for a single pump (almost 15k with the controller and other options) in the long run being in CA its the only viable long term solution. FYI a nitrogen or inert gas blanket is required for this pump to prevent ice build up on the pump. A N2 generator will supply more than enough gas for this purpose.

1 Like

Bump.

@cyclopath how’s the CPE pump working at cold temps? My diaphragm pump is being way too sassy and trying my patience.

1 Like

Not a win. Gearpumps with rated motors are the best option other than -/+ve pressure that I’ve tried so far.

I’ve got one last trick up my sleeve. Need to secure a source before blabbing.

They are visible on this site & look like a great response.

3 Likes

How well do they do with low Viscosity?

They definitely work better once the solvent is cold. Haven’t had any problems with pulling (priming) directly from rm temp barrels.

“Don’t hate them” might too feint a praise, but saying I loved them would also be inaccurate.

2 Likes

http://www.helwigpumps.com/PDF/V-10%20FLYER-a.pdf

Maybe this would deal with cold temps.

Should work with rm temp ethanol.

Dubious about their performance at -80C.

They are described as “low volume metering pumps”, which isn’t really what we are trying to achieve.

If they can pull against a vacuum, there are other places they might be appropriate

Sooo… the $400 methanol fuel (gear) pump is currently the best option I’ve tried. There are a couple of other good options that I haven’t played with yet & I still need to give this thing a decent workout, but it primes AND moves lots of solvent. We’ll see how it does against a filter…

Or at -80 whichnit is not rated for :slight_smile:

5 Likes

Thats why I got an AI oven and an re-501

1 Like

Looks like they’ve got a 12gpm 115V model. I might have to go ahead and get one. GPI - M-1115S Methanol Pump 115V AC

1 Like

Worked great until we burst a bag. Intake screen clogged imediately. Not the pumps fault, but needs noting.

Both pushed and pulled, including priming, through a filter. Almost emptied it too (pumping air). Cold didn’t phase it. Not as fast as N2 (and N2 does that other stuff).

Caveats: Came lubicated. Intended for fuel not food. Leave intake screen accessible or supplement it with something both bigger & smaller.

Materials and construction appear appropriate. I removed lubricant and cleaned everything thoroughly.

Want the ability to feed it 3-20V and reverse it. Should be fairly simple.

Might make more sense to play similar games with the AC version.

2 Likes

Does anybody know about these? For homebrewing from australia. Its rated up to 120C They have a bigger model and they offer a stainless housing. Theyre cheap like next to nothing. I wonder how it would work cold?

2 Likes

This looks to be a good option, compared to the CPE Systems unit…about the same price, but has wireless remote options…and 2hp…