Minnesota Class D Water Operator Certification Practice Exam

Corrosive chemicals are often pumped using a diaphragm type pump because this pump design is particularly well-suited for handling harsh and corrosive fluids. The diaphragm acts as a barrier between the fluid being pumped and the mechanical components of the pump, reducing the risk of corrosion and contamination. This is crucial when dealing with chemicals that can react adversely with metal components typically found in other pump designs.

Diaphragm pumps also provide gentle pumping action, which helps protect the integrity of the fluid, preventing shearing and allowing for better handling of viscous fluids. They are capable of creating a vacuum, making them efficient for handling low-viscosity materials and allowing for self-priming capabilities. These benefits make diaphragm pumps a preferred option in applications involving corrosive substances.

In contrast, while positive displacement pumps and piston pumps might also be used for similar purposes, they may not offer the same level of protection against corrosion and could potentially suffer from wear over time if the materials in contact with the chemical are not suitably resistant. Centrifugal pumps, while common in pumping applications, are generally not ideal for corrosive fluids because they rely on an impeller that may corrode easily unless specifically designed with corrosive-resistant materials.