Choosing the right dispenser pump for your product is essential to ensuring that your product is dispensed in a safe, efficient, and user-friendly manner. However, there are a number of mistakes that people make when choosing a dispenser pump, which can lead to problems with performance, durability, and usability.
In this blog post, we will discuss the three most common mistakes that people make when choosing a dispenser pump for their product, and how to avoid them.
Mistake #1: Not considering compatibility
One of the most common mistakes that people make when choosing a dispenser pump is not considering compatibility. This can be a problem if the pump is not compatible with the product itself, or if it is not compatible with the packaging.
It is important to choose a pump that is made of materials that are both chemically and physically compatible with the liquid being pumped. This will help to ensure the safe and reliable operation of the pump.
Chemical Compatibility
Dispenser pumps are used to dispense a wide variety of liquids, including food and beverages, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals. It is important to choose a dispenser pump that is made of materials that are compatible with the liquid being dispensed.
For example, if you are dispensing a strong acid, you will need to choose a dispenser pump that is made of a material that is resistant to corrosion, such as PVDF or stainless steel. If you are dispensing a food or beverage, you will need to choose a dispenser pump that is made of a material that is safe for food contact, such as PP or PET.
Physical compatibility
Dispenser pumps can also be used to dispense liquids that are abrasive, hot, or viscous. It is important to choose a dispenser pump that is made of materials that can withstand the physical properties of the liquid being dispensed.
For example, if you are dispensing an abrasive liquid, you will need to choose a dispenser pump that is made of a material that is resistant to wear and tear, such as stainless steel or ceramic. If you are dispensing a hot liquid, you will need to choose a dispenser pump that is made of a material that can withstand high temperatures, such as stainless steel or heat-resistant plastic.
Here are some examples of how the different materials of a pump can affect compatibility:
Polypropylene (PP): Not compatible with strong acids or bases, but it is compatible with mild chemicals, food and beverages.
Polytetrafluoro- ethylene (PTFE): Compatible with corrosive chemicals, acids, bases, and solvents.
Stainless Steel (SS): Compatible with corrosive chemicals, abrasive liquids, and high temperatures.
Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride (CPVC): Compatible with hot water, aggressive fluids, and mild chemicals.
Polyethylene Terephthalate: Compatible with food and beverage applications and mild chemicals.
It is important to consult the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure that you are choosing the right pump for your application.
Mistake #2: Not considering dispensing performance
Another common mistake that people make when choosing a dispenser pump is not considering dispensing performance. This is important to ensure that the pump dispenses the product in a consistent and controlled manner.
When choosing a dispenser pump, it is important to consider the following factors:
- The type of product that you are dispensing: Some products, such as medications or cleaning products, need to be dispensed in specific amounts. It is important to choose a pump that can dispense the product accurately and consistently.
- The viscosity of the product: Thicker products, such as lotions or creams, will require a different type of pump than thinner products, such as liquids. It is important to choose a pump that is designed for the viscosity of the product that you are dispensing.
- The desired flow rate: Do you need the pump to dispense the product quickly or slowly? It is important to choose a pump that has a flow rate that meets your needs.
Mistake #3: Not considering durability
Another important factor to consider when choosing a dispenser pump is durability. This is especially important for products that are used frequently or that are subjected to harsh conditions.
When choosing a dispenser pump, it is important to consider the following factors:
- The materials that the pump is made of: Some materials are more durable than others. It is important to choose a pump that is made of materials that will withstand the expected use and conditions.
- The design of the pump: Some pumps are designed to be more durable than others. For example, pumps with metal components are typically more durable than pumps with plastic components.
- The warranty: Some pumps come with a warranty. If you are concerned about durability, it is a good idea to choose a pump that comes with a warranty.
By avoiding these three common mistakes, you can choose the right dispenser pump for your product and ensure that it is dispensed in a safe, efficient, and user-friendly manner.
How can ScopeNEXT help you choose the right dispenser pump for your product?
The personnel at ScopeNEXT Ltd have a wealth of experience within the dispenser and packaging market, and are able to offer specific technical advice to meet your own dispensing needs.
Due to the wide range of containers available, we can offer an appropriate closure whatever your particular bottle or container. If the specific closure is not referred to, please request our customised closure options.
Based in the West Midlands, UK, but supplying worldwide, ScopeNEXT focuses on the individual needs of our customers, offering bespoke solutions for specific technical requirements.
