Barrel & Drum Pumps

About Barrel & Drum Pumps

Barrel and drum pumps are essential equipment for safely transferring liquids from large containers, drums, and barrels in workshops, garages, construction sites, and industrial facilities. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range of manual and powered pumps designed to handle oils, diesel, AdBlue, chemicals, and other fluids with minimal effort and spillage. Whether you're working with 20-litre containers or 200-litre industrial drums, the right pump makes liquid handling cleaner, faster, and considerably safer.

Our selection includes manual rotary pumps, lever action pumps, battery-operated models, and specialist AdBlue pumps from trusted brands including Sealey, Draper, Faithfull, and Lumatic. Manual options offer reliable, maintenance-free operation without requiring power sources, whilst battery-powered pumps deliver higher flow rates with reduced physical effort. Many models feature chemical-resistant polypropylene or durable cast iron construction, ensuring compatibility with diverse fluids and long service life in demanding professional environments.

Applications

Barrel and drum pumps serve numerous trades and industries:

• Mechanics and Vehicle Technicians: Dispensing engine oils, lubricants, and AdBlue in garages and MOT centres
• Agricultural Workers: Transferring diesel, oils, and agricultural chemicals on farms and rural estates
• Plant Operators: Refuelling machinery and equipment on construction sites and industrial premises
• Fleet Maintenance Teams: Managing AdBlue and diesel for HGVs and commercial vehicle fleets
• Manufacturing Facilities: Handling industrial lubricants, coolants, and process fluids
• Marine Engineers: Transferring fuels and oils in boatyards and marinas
• DIY Enthusiasts: Home workshop oil changes and equipment maintenance
• Chemical Handlers: Safely dispensing specialist chemicals and solvents in controlled environments

Choosing The Right Barrel & Drum Pumps

Liquid Compatibility: Standard pumps suit oils and lubricants, whilst corrosive chemicals require chemical-resistant polypropylene models. AdBlue demands specially designed DEF pumps to prevent contamination. Always verify manufacturer compatibility specifications before purchasing.

Manual or Powered: Manual rotary and lever action pumps offer economical, reliable operation without power requirements, ideal for occasional use. Battery-operated models from Draper Expert and Sealey provide faster flow rates and reduced physical effort for frequent, high-volume applications.

Flow Rate: High-flow pumps delivering 25-40 litres per minute significantly reduce transfer times for large volumes. Standard flow pumps (10-20 LPM) prove perfectly adequate for occasional use and smaller quantities.

Drum Size and Pump Length: Ensure the pump tube reaches your drum's bottom. Standard pumps accommodate 20-50 litre drums, whilst industrial models suit 200-litre barrels. MyToolShed.co.uk's product specifications include precise tube lengths to guarantee proper fit.

Build Quality: Cast iron rotary pumps like those from Faithfull and Lumatic deliver exceptional durability for workshop environments. Lightweight polypropylene models provide portability and chemical resistance for varied site work.

Safety Information

COSHH Compliance: When handling chemicals or hazardous substances, comply with Control of Substances Hazardous to Health regulations. Consult safety data sheets and use appropriately rated pumps and PPE.

Flammable Liquids: Exercise extreme caution with petrol, diesel, or solvents. Ensure adequate ventilation, eliminate ignition sources, and use pumps specifically designed for flammable materials.

Environmental Protection: Use drip trays and spill containment equipment to prevent contamination. Even small oil or chemical spills can cause significant environmental damage and HSE enforcement action.

Equipment Maintenance: Regularly inspect pumps for wear, particularly seals and hoses. Clean thoroughly after use, especially when switching between liquid types, to prevent cross-contamination.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the same pump for different liquids?
This depends on the liquids involved. Whilst many pumps handle various oils and lubricants, never mix incompatible substances like AdBlue and diesel. Maintain separate dedicated pumps for AdBlue, chemicals, and general workshop fluids to prevent cross-contamination and equipment damage.

Do I need a special pump for AdBlue?
Yes, AdBlue requires dedicated DEF pumps designed specifically for this fluid. Standard pumps may contaminate AdBlue or become damaged by its chemical composition. Specialist AdBlue pumps feature appropriate materials that maintain fluid purity, critical for proper SCR system operation in modern diesel vehicles.

Are battery-operated pumps suitable for outdoor site work?
Absolutely. Battery-operated drum pumps excel for site work, requiring no mains power whilst offering excellent portability. Models from Sealey and Draper feature rechargeable batteries providing sufficient power for a full day's operation. Store pumps and batteries in dry locations when not in use, and keep spare batteries charged for continuous site operation.