Barrel & Drum Pumps

About Barrel & Drum Pumps

Barrel and drum pumps are essential pieces of equipment for safely and efficiently transferring liquids from large containers, drums, and barrels. Whether you're working with oils, AdBlue, diesel, chemicals, or other fluids, having the right drum pump can save considerable time and effort whilst reducing the risk of spills and waste. These pumps are designed to extract liquids from containers ranging from 20 to 200 litres, making them indispensable for workshops, garages, farms, construction sites, and industrial facilities across the UK.

Our range includes manual rotary pumps, lever action pumps, battery-powered electric pumps, and specialist AdBlue pumps from trusted brands including Sealey, Draper, Faithfull, and Lumatic. Manual options such as cast iron rotary barrel pumps offer reliable, maintenance-free operation without the need for power sources, whilst battery-operated models provide faster flow rates and reduced physical effort. Many pumps are constructed from chemical-resistant materials like polypropylene and cast iron, ensuring compatibility with a wide variety of liquids whilst maintaining durability in demanding working environments.

From basic siphon pumps for occasional use to heavy-duty lever action and high-flow rotary systems for professional tradespeople, our barrel and drum pump selection caters to all requirements and budgets. Whether you need to dispense DEF/AdBlue for vehicle maintenance or transfer oils and lubricants in a busy workshop, you'll find the right solution to make liquid handling safer, cleaner, and more efficient.

Jargon Buster

• Rotary Pump: A manual drum pump operated by turning a handle in a circular motion, which creates suction to draw liquid up through the pump mechanism. Ideal for oils, lubricants, and non-corrosive fluids.
• Lever Action Pump: A hand-operated pump that uses an up-and-down lever motion to transfer liquids. These pumps typically offer faster flow rates than rotary models and require less continuous effort.
• AdBlue/DEF: Diesel Exhaust Fluid (known as AdBlue in the UK) is a solution used in modern diesel vehicles to reduce harmful emissions. Specialist pumps are required as standard pumps may not be compatible with this fluid.
• Flow Rate: The volume of liquid a pump can transfer per minute, typically measured in litres per minute (LPM). Higher flow rates mean faster dispensing but may require more effort on manual pumps.
• Siphon Pump: A simple pump design that uses gravity and suction to transfer liquids from one container to another. Best suited for lighter fluids and occasional use.
• Chemical Resistant: Pumps constructed from materials such as polypropylene or specially treated metals that can safely handle corrosive chemicals, acids, and solvents without degrading.

Who Uses Barrel & Drum Pumps?

Barrel and drum pumps are essential equipment for a wide range of trades and industries:

• Mechanics and Vehicle Technicians: For dispensing oils, lubricants, AdBlue, and other automotive fluids in garages and workshops
• Agricultural Workers and Farmers: Transferring diesel, oils, and agricultural chemicals safely on farms and rural sites
• Plant Operators and Construction Site Managers: Refuelling machinery and equipment on building sites and industrial locations
• Manufacturing and Factory Maintenance Teams: Handling industrial lubricants, coolants, and process chemicals
• Haulage and Fleet Maintenance Professionals: Dispensing AdBlue and diesel for HGVs and commercial vehicle fleets
• Marine Engineers and Boat Owners: Transferring fuels, oils, and engine fluids in boatyards and marinas
• DIY Enthusiasts and Home Workshop Users: For occasional oil changes, equipment maintenance, and fluid transfers
• Chemical and Laboratory Technicians: Safely dispensing specialist chemicals and solvents in controlled environments

How to Choose the Right Barrel & Drum Pumps

Selecting the appropriate barrel or drum pump depends on several important factors:

Liquid Type and Compatibility: Consider what fluids you'll be transferring. Standard pumps work well with oils and lubricants, but corrosive chemicals require chemical-resistant polypropylene models, whilst AdBlue demands specially designed DEF pumps. Always check the manufacturer's compatibility specifications to avoid damage to the pump or contamination of your liquids.

Manual or Powered Operation: Manual rotary and lever action pumps are cost-effective, require no power source, and offer reliable performance for occasional use. Battery-operated pumps provide faster flow rates and reduced physical effort, making them ideal for frequent use or high-volume applications. Consider your typical usage patterns and whether mains power or charging facilities are readily available on site.

Flow Rate Requirements: If you regularly transfer large volumes, a high-flow pump with rates of 25-40 litres per minute will significantly reduce working time. For occasional use or smaller quantities, a standard flow pump (10-20 LPM) may be perfectly adequate and more economical.

Drum Size and Pump Length: Ensure the pump tube is long enough to reach the bottom of your drums. Standard pumps suit 20-50 litre drums, whilst industrial models accommodate 200-litre barrels. Measure your containers before purchasing to guarantee proper fit and function.

Build Quality and Materials: Cast iron rotary pumps offer exceptional durability and are ideal for workshop environments, whilst lightweight polypropylene models provide portability and chemical resistance. Heavy-duty models from brands like Sealey and Draper Expert are engineered for professional trade use and offer extended service life.

Hose Length and Nozzle Type: Consider where you'll be dispensing fluids and whether the supplied hose length is sufficient. Some pumps include automatic shut-off nozzles for precise filling, whilst others have simple spouts for general pouring applications.

Popular Accessories

• Replacement Hoses and Nozzles: Spare or longer hoses to extend reach, plus precision nozzles for accurate dispensing
• Drum Bunds and Spill Trays: Essential for containing leaks and meeting HSE environmental protection requirements
• Oil Containers and Jerry Cans: For storing and transporting oils, fuels, and other liquids safely
• Funnels and Drip Trays: To minimise spills and keep work areas clean during fluid transfers
• Measuring Jugs and Calibrated Containers: For accurate measurement of liquids before dispensing
• Personal Protective Equipment: Chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and protective aprons for safe handling
• Drum Dollies and Handlers: For moving heavy drums around workshops and storage areas
• Lockable Drum Caps: Security caps to prevent unauthorised access to valuable or hazardous liquids

Safety Information

Safe operation of barrel and drum pumps is essential to protect both operators and the working environment:

COSHH Compliance: When handling chemicals, oils, or other potentially hazardous substances, ensure you comply with the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) regulations. Always consult safety data sheets for the liquids you're transferring and use appropriately rated pumps and PPE.

Flammable Liquids: Exercise extreme caution when pumping flammable liquids such as petrol, diesel, or solvents. Ensure adequate ventilation, eliminate ignition sources, and use pumps specifically designed for flammable materials. Never smoke or use mobile phones near drum pumping operations involving flammable substances.

Environmental Protection: Use drip trays and spill containment equipment to prevent environmental contamination. Even small spills of oils or chemicals can cause significant environmental damage and may result in HSE enforcement action. Dispose of contaminated materials according to local authority regulations.

Equipment Maintenance: Regularly inspect pumps for wear, damage, or degradation, particularly seals and hoses. Clean pumps thoroughly after use, especially when switching between different liquid types, to prevent cross-contamination. Store pumps properly when not in use to maintain their condition and performance.

Electrical Safety: For battery-operated pumps, ensure batteries are charged using the correct charger and never operate pumps with damaged electrical components. Keep electrical elements away from liquids and follow the manufacturer's instructions for safe charging and storage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the same pump for different types of liquids?

This depends on the liquids involved. Whilst many pumps can handle various oils and lubricants, you should never mix incompatible substances like AdBlue and diesel. Chemical pumps designed for corrosive substances shouldn't be used for foodstuffs. Always clean pumps thoroughly between different liquid types, and maintain separate dedicated pumps for AdBlue, chemicals, and general workshop fluids to prevent cross-contamination.

How do I know if a pump will fit my drums?

Check the pump tube length specification and compare it to your drum depth. Most standard pumps accommodate 20-50 litre drums with depths up to 600mm, whilst heavy-duty models reach the bottom of 200-litre barrels (typically 800-900mm deep). The pump's inlet should reach within 25-50mm of the drum bottom for efficient extraction. Measure your containers before purchasing or contact our team for advice.

Are battery-operated pumps suitable for outdoor site work?

Yes, battery-operated drum pumps are excellent for site work as they don't require mains power and offer portability. Models from Draper Expert and Sealey feature rechargeable batteries that provide enough power for a full day's work. However, store the pump and batteries in a dry location when not in use, and keep spare batteries charged for continuous operation on busy sites.

Do I need a special pump for AdBlue?

Yes, AdBlue (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) requires pumps specifically designed for this purpose. Standard pumps may not be compatible with AdBlue's chemical composition and can contaminate the fluid or become damaged. Dedicated AdBlue pumps feature appropriate materials and seals that maintain the purity of the fluid, which is critical for proper SCR system operation in modern diesel vehicles.

How much maintenance do drum pumps require?

Manual pumps require minimal maintenance – simply clean after use and store in a dry location. For pumps handling oils, occasionally flush with clean oil to prevent residue build-up. Chemical pumps should be rinsed with appropriate cleaning agents after each use. Battery-operated models require periodic charging and battery maintenance. Always inspect seals, hoses, and connections regularly, replacing worn components promptly to maintain performance and prevent leaks.