What are the advantages of a Graco electric-operated diaphragm pump?

Graco electric-operated diaphragm pumps are versatile and robust. They handle viscous, abrasive, and shear-sensitive fluids efficiently, are self-priming, and can run dry without damage. They are widely used for pumping paints, coatings, adhesives, slurries, and in general dewatering applications.

Where are submersible pumps commonly used?

Submersible pumps are designed to operate fully submerged. They are commonly used for water drainage, sewage pumping, well pumping, fountain circulation, and industrial applications like sump pumping and handling slurries in mining and dredging operations.

Why is precision engineering important for these pump types?

Precision engineering ensures the reliability, efficiency, and longevity of pumps. High-quality components like impellers, pistons, cylinders, and valves—manufactured to exact tolerances—prevent leaks, reduce wear, minimise vibration, and maintain optimal performance, especially in harsh or demanding applications.

Specialist Pump Types: A Look at Flux, Koshin, Graco & Submersible Pumps

by andrew koo | Aug 26, 2025 | Articles

Specialist Pump Types: A Look at Flux, Koshin, Graco & Submersible Pumps

The world of industrial machinery is filled with specialised tools designed for specific tasks. While understanding broad categories like centrifugal and positive displacement pumps is crucial, sometimes you need to pinpoint the exact technology for your application.

This article explores several specialist pump types that are vital across various industries, from chemical processing to construction sites. We will examine the Flux container pump, the Koshin hand pump, the Graco electric-operated diaphragm pump, and the versatile submersible pump.

At Winston Engineering, we are the precision engineering force behind many leading pump OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers). We specialise in manufacturing the critical components and sub-assemblies that ensure these pumps perform reliably under pressure.

1. Container Pumps: The Flux Pump Solution

What it is: A container pump, like those from Flux, is a powerful self-priming centrifugal pump designed to empty or fill intermediate bulk containers (IBCs), drums, and other large vessels completely and efficiently.

How it works: Typically mounted on a mobile trolley, it uses a robust centrifugal pump mechanism to create strong suction, drawing fluids out of containers through a dip tube. Many models are explosion-proof for safe operation with flammable liquids.

Key Applications:

Transferring chemicals, oils, and solvents from IBCs and drums.
Off-loading tankers and bowsers.
Effluent and waste collection.

The Winston Connection: The reliability of a Flux container pump depends on the precision of its internal components. We manufacture high-quality, corrosion-resistant impellers, casings, and shaft seals that can handle aggressive fluids, ensuring longevity and leak-free operation for our manufacturing partners.

2. Hand Pumps: The Koshin Portable Workhorse

What it is: The Koshin hand pump represents a category of portable, manual positive displacement pumps. Renowned for their durability and simplicity, they are operated by a hand lever to provide a dependable flow of fluid without the need for power.

How it works: Most models are rotary piston pumps. The hand lever action rotates a piston inside a cylinder, drawing fluid in on one stroke and discharging it on the other. They are self-priming and often feature built-in filters.

Key Applications:

Draining water from construction sites, basements, or boats.
Transferring fuel, diesel, or kerosene from storage drums.
Irrigation and agricultural use in remote locations.
Emergency dewatering and fluid transfer.

The Winston Connection: The smooth operation and sealing capability of a Koshin hand pump rely on the exact tolerances of its piston and cylinder assembly. Our precision machining capabilities allow us to produce these internal components to the highest standards, ensuring a perfect fit and efficient pumping action every time.

3. Diaphragm Pumps: The Graco Electric-Driven Standard

What it is: A Graco electric-operated diaphragm pump is an air-powered double diaphragm (AODD) pump that uses compressed air to move two flexible diaphragms back and forth. This creates a powerful, self-priming action that can handle viscous, abrasive, or shear-sensitive fluids.

How it works: Compressed air is directed to the back side of the first diaphragm, pushing it and the fluid out. The movement simultaneously pulls the second diaphragm back, drawing fluid in. The air valve then shifts, repeating the process on the opposite side for a continuous flow.

Key Applications:

Pumping paints, coatings, adhesives, and inks.
Transferring abrasive slurries, ceramics, and sludge.
Food processing where product shear is a concern.
General dewatering with suspended solids.

The Winston Connection: The core of a Graco diaphragm pump is its air distribution system and diaphragm assembly. We supply OEMs with precision-machined air valves, piston rods, and ball check valve seats that are essential for consistent air shifting and reliable, leak-free fluid handling.

4. Submersible Pumps: The Underwater Powerhouse

What it is: A submersible pump is a hermetically sealed pump and motor assembly designed to operate fully submerged in the fluid it is meant to pump. This design eliminates the need for priming and prevents pump cavitation, a common issue with other pump types.

How it works: The pump is lowered into the fluid (water, sewage, etc.). The submerged motor powers an impeller, which pushes the fluid to the surface through a discharge pipe. They are highly efficient for moving large volumes of fluid.

Key Applications:

Water: Drainage, sewage pumping, well pumping, and fountain circulation.
Industrial: Pumping out sumps, pits, and basements on construction sites.
Specialist: Slurry pumping in mining and dredging operations.

The Winston Connection: The harsh, submerged environment demands incredibly robust components. We manufacture stainless steel impellers, diffusers, and wear rings that resist corrosion and abrasion. The precision of these parts is vital for maintaining efficiency and preventing seal failure in demanding submersible applications.

The Common Thread: Precision Engineering

Whether it’s the portable simplicity of a Koshin hand pump or the robust power of a Graco electric-operated diaphragm pump, every pump’s performance hinges on the quality and precision of its internal components. wear, corrosion, and inefficiency are often the result of poorly manufactured parts.

This is where Winston Engineering provides critical value.

As a trusted partner to pump manufacturers, we specialise in the precision machining of the components that matter most:

Impellers & Diffusers: For optimal hydraulic efficiency.
Pistons, Cylinders & Diaphragm Assemblies: For accurate positive displacement.
Valves, Housings & Shafts: For reliability and leak-free operation.
Custom Engineered Parts: Designed and built to your exact specifications.

We help OEMs build more reliable, efficient, and durable pumps by providing them with the highest quality foundational parts.

Conclusion

Choosing the right specialist pump—be it a Flux container pump, a Koshin hand pump, a Graco electric-operated diaphragm pump, or a submersible pump—is essential for productivity and safety.

Are you a pump manufacturer looking for a precision engineering partner to supply critical components? Contact Winston Engineering today to discuss how our expertise can enhance the performance and reliability of your products.