Flexible impeller pumps are a pump design which consists of a circular rubber impeller mounted within a casing. 
The casing is smaller than the unbent rubber vanes ensuring the rubber vanes make contact within the entire casing creating small chambers. The chambers operate similar to valves, making the pump a positive displacement pump and self-priming.
The impeller is mounted within the casing in such a way that the vanes bend at different angles depending on where they are located in relation to the inlet and outlet of the pump.

Advantages of flexible impeller pumps

• Self-prime from dry
• High capacity as can operate at full motor speed with low viscosity fluids
• Versatile - can be run at different speeds to accommodate differing viscosities
• Gentle pumping action ensuring the consistency of the fluid remains unaffected by low shear forces e.g. milk, cream, thixotropic fluids
• Easy Maintenance due to few moving parts
• Solid Handling capability
• Cleaning in Place friendly
• Reversible to enable multiple applications including tank loading and unloading
• Accessories available include carry handle, variable speed drive, trolley
• Versatile – Rotate pump head, different connections available.

Application Areas

As the pump casing is often constructed of stainless steel and bronze, the flexible vane design is suitable for the hygienic and marine industries, making them commonly utilised in the following areas:

• Oenological (wine, stemmed grapes)
• Food processing (fruit pulp, honey, sauces and syrups)
• Dairy (creams, yoghurts, milk and liquid eggs)
• Cosmetics & pharmaceutical (shampoo, moisturisers, liquid soap)
• Shipping and marine (bilge water, ballast)
• Chemical & manufacturing (paint, water based glues, detergents)
• Fats, fuels, oils and lubricants