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Electric Drum Pump Range from Flux Pumps – Reliable & Efficient Liquid Transfer

Flux invented the electric barrel pump in 1950. Often copied, but never beaten on quality, durability and performance, the Flux electric drum pump range is the solution for transferring liquids from drums, barrels and IBC containers. We produce a huge range of electric barrel pumps to cover every application: 

F 300 Series light-duty electric pumps

Perfect for emptying smaller containers right up to 1000 litre IBC’s, these compact, portable pumps are perfect for pumping smaller quantities and infrequent use. Designed for liquids of max viscosity 250 mPas and density 1.4, with pump tubes available in polypropylene, PVDF and also stainless steel materials. Choose from either 110 V or 230 V electric motor. 

F 400 Series heavy-duty barrel pumps

There is an F 400 series electric drum pump for every application. From transferring flammable liquids or food products, to pumping high density concentrated acids, emptying high value liquids from drums and also mixing in drums and IBC’sDo it all, with our modular F 400 range. Select from the options below to create the pump you need: 

  • FEM 4070 or F 457 – 500 W or 800 W IP24 motors for general industrial use 
  • F 458 or F 458-1 – IP55 totally-enclosed motors for sanitary applications or areas with corrosive fumes 
  • F 460 or F 460-1 Ex – Explosion-proof brushed motors for hazardous ATEX areas 
  • FBM 4000 Ex – Explosion-proof, brushless motor for heavy-duty use 
  • F 414 – 3-phase electric gear motors for continuous, heavy-duty running 

  • F 424 - Seal-less drum and IBC pumps - for ultimate service life with clean fluids 
  • F 425 – 99.9% emptying pump for dangerous or high value liquids 
  • F 426 – Selectable mixing pump in PP or Stainless Steel 316 materials  
  • F 427 – Seal-less food-grade pump (EC 1935 / 2004 / FDA CFR 21 standards) 
  • F 430 – Drum and IBC pumps with mechanical seal – for abrasive, solids-laden fluids, food products and minimal cross-contamination between liquid containers. 

F 500 Series high viscosity electric drum pumps

Our Viscopower high viscosity drum and IBC pumps are powered by F 457 800 W single-phase electric motors, F 403 gear motors and a range of 3-phase motors to suit every application, covering a viscosity range from 1 – 100,000 mPas. 

The Flux electric drum pump motor range:

Flux 230 V and 110 V electric drum pump commutator motors  

Flux 230 V and 110 V single-phase electric drum pump commutator motors are ergonomically designed, tough and energy efficient. Furthermore, every Flux motor is a serviceable design, rated for continuous running (S1) and 100% made in our German factory using European components. Each motor is individually tested before sale. In addition, our motors draw less current for the same performance when compared to competitors’ products. 

Flux manufactures both internally-cooled and externally-cooled electric drum pump motor designs, with power ratings from 230 W to 800 W: 

Internally-cooled single-phase electric motors

FEM 4070 and F 457 motors are economical, heavy-duty designs for standard industrial drum and IBC transfer applications. Note these motors have a nylon body with IP 24 ingress protection against dust and liquid. The required cooling air is drawn through the motor windings by the fan. Therefore, these motors are not suitable for long term use (or storage) in environments with corrosive or explosive vapours, for example, concentrated acid baths or ATEX zoned areas. In addition, microscopic carbon deposits, created as the motor brushes wear down, will drop out and will not be contained inside the motor housing. Therefore, we recommend using externally-cooled, double-walled motors for sanitary, food and pharmaceutical applications. 

Externally-cooled single-phase electric motors

F 458 and F 460 Ex motors are double-walled alloy bodied designs, suitable for sanitary applications, use in corrosive atmospheres and also ATEX zoned areas containing flammable vapours (F 460 Ex model only). Furthermore, these motors feature class-leading IP 55 ingress protection and corrosion resistant paint. For extreme, heavy-duty use, consider the maintenance-free FBM 4000 brushless motor. 

  1. High performance: Our energy-efficient brushed motors deliver high torque, with low noise output. Cost-effective 500W FEM 4070 motors feature variable speed control as standard. High-power 800W F 457 motors are also available for high-density and high-viscosity fluids. 
  2. Versatility: Flux commutator motor driven pumps are suitable for all drum and IBC transfer applications, including chemicals, pharmaceuticals and food processing. F 460 Ex models are safe for use in explosive environments. FEM 3070 motors are lightweight and portable, with two-speed settings for precise dispense control. 
  3. Durability: Flux motors are built to last, with high-quality materials that withstand harsh conditions. Double-walled F 458 motors have a fully enclosed housing, thereby preventing cooling air from entering the windings. Subsequently, this eliminates corrosion risk and reduces maintenance costs. Features such as high-strength housings, superior cable protection, recessed switches, lacquer-coated windings and enhanced fume protection extend motor life. 
  4. Safety features: Safety is a top priority in Flux motor design. Therefore, all motors have double insulation and Class II earth protection. The F 460 Ex model is ATEX-certified for hazardous environments. Flux 230 V and 110 V single-phase motors feature thermal overload protection and also low-voltage release to prevent accidental restarts. 110 V motors also reduce the risk of operator injury compared to higher-voltage alternatives. 
  5. Ease of maintenance: Flux commutator motors provide excellent return on investment, being fully serviceable and easy to maintain. Our motors deliver industry leading whole-life cost. Regular preventive maintenance also helps keep them in optimal condition, thereby minimising down-time. 
  6. Adaptability: One motor can drive multiple electric drum pump models, subsequently reducing costs. Quick-release couplings allow for fast motor detachment. Their adaptability makes them practical for many drum transfer applications, therefore improving process efficiency and productivity. 

Commutator motor - FAQs

A commutator can be described as a rotary electrical switch. It periodically reverses the current direction between a rotor and an external circuit. The commutator consists of a cylinder with multiple metal contact segments, which mount on the rotating armature of the motor. 

Two or more electrical contacts, known as brushes, typically made from a soft conductive material such as carbon, press against the commutator. These brushes maintain sliding contact with successive segments of the commutator as it rotates, connecting the windings (coils of wire) on the armature, to the commutator segments. 

Commutators are essential in direct current (DC) motors and dynamos (DC generators). In a motor, the commutator supplies electric current to the windings. By reversing the current direction in the rotating windings each half turn, it generates a steady rotating force (torque). In a generator, the commutator collects the current produced in the windings, reversing the current direction with each half turn. This action serves as a mechanical rectifier, converting the alternating current from the windings into unidirectional direct current for the external load circuit. 

Flux single-phase electric commutator motors, or brushed motors, offer several advantages: 

  1. Cost-effective: Commutator motors are typically less expensive to manufacture compared to other types of motors, making them a cost-effective choice for many applications. Our designs are easy to repair and maintain, consequently delivering great return on investment. 
  2. High starting torque: These motors deliver high starting torque, which is beneficial when pumping high density or high viscosity fluids. 
  3. Speed control: Flux single-phase electric drum pump motors with speed control are ideal when dispensing liquids into different sized containers. 
  4. Simplicity and reliability: Their simple design makes these electric drum pump motors reliable and easy to maintain. Furthermore, you can replace carbon brushes and bearings quickly and at low cost. All spare parts are available to buy separately, for economical repairs. 
  5. Compact size: They are ergonomically designed, compact and light, for safe manual handling. Furthermore, they are suitable for applications where space is limited. 
  6. Versatility: Highly portable and easy to detach from the pump tube, our motors can be used anywhere on site. 
  7. Durability: Our IP 55 electric drum pump motors can withstand tough working conditions.
  8. Efficiency: Flux motors run more slowly (8,500 RPM vs. 11,000 RPM for roughly the same performance), with around 30% less current draw than competitor’s motors. 

When choosing between 110 V or 230 V single-phase electric pump motors, consider the factors below to determine which voltage best suits your needs:

The standard UK mains electricity supply is 230-240 V. Manufacturers produce 230 V motors because there is high demand and they are compatible with the existing electrical infrastructure. Flux 230 V motors are fitted with a 3-pin UK plug. Therefore, this makes them convenient and cost-effective to use. They are used for both permanently installed pumping installations and for portable applications, e.g. barrel pumps.

Although less common in the UK than the standard 230 V mains supply, many larger construction, industrial and manufacturing sites use 110 V power. This is due to safety requirements which demand lower voltage equipment. 110 V power supply, especially when tapped to earth, offers a safety advantage and reduced chance of operator injury if a malfunction or accident occurs when using portable, hand-held equipment.

Voltage and amperage (the measurement of current) are directly proportional. Therefore, 110 V equipment  is inherently safer, because it’s lower voltage carries less current than 230 V.

Step-down transformers (with round safety plugs) are used to reduce the voltage from 230 V to 110 V. Therefore, 110 V power is a more expensive option overall, but perhaps not by much, when considering total plant operating costs.

230 V motors are typically more efficient than their 110 V counterparts. This is because they draw less current for the same power output, leading to reduced energy losses in the form of heat. Although less efficient, 110 V drum pump motors have the same power ratings as their 230 V equivalents.  Therefore, 110 V motors are ideal for smaller portable pumps and hand-held tools.  Such equipment generally requires lower power and typically has shorter run times, however, Flux 110 V barrel pump motors are still S1 marked, i.e. rated for continuous duty applications.

Summary: 110 V vs 230 V power 

Choose 110 V electric drum pump motors where safety is a priority. For example, construction sites or larger manufacturing plants. 

Choose 230 V electric drum pump motors for continuous-duty applications and where straightforward connection to electrical infrastructure, at minimal cost, is important. 

Please call us on 01202 823304 or email sales@flux-pumps.co.uk for assistance 

FBM 4000 Ex – The world's first brushless electric drum pump motor

Low maintenance drum pump motor for continuous use 

The Flux FBM 4000 Ex is a cutting-edge electric drum pump motor designed for demanding industrial applications. The world’s first and only ATEX brushless drum pump motor, it eliminates the requirement for carbon brushes, therefore reducing the need for routine maintenance. Moreover, the brushless design results in exceptionally low wear and long service life, even under high-frequency starting conditions or continuous operation. 

Ideal for short-term operation and precise liquid dispensing, this motor consequently offers soft-start functionality and fully adjustable speed control for accurate dosing. It’s extremely quiet operation, particularly at lower speeds, makes it a top choice for environments where noise reduction is essential. 

  • Durable & robust design – The motor features an ultra-tough double-skinned alloy housing with corrosion resistant paint.   
  • Electronic monitoring – Built-in safety features continuously track speed, current and temperature, preventing potential overload or overheating. 
  • Enhanced safety – The integrated no-volt release prevents unintended restart after a power interruption, therefore maximising operator safety. Ex-protected as standard. 
  • Variable speed control – The integrated control knob allows precise speed adjustment, subsequently offering complete control over the pumping process. 

  • Ingress protection class: IP55 (dust and water jet resistant) 
  • Explosion protection: II 2 G Ex d e IIC T6 (ATEX-certified for hazardous areas) 
  • Cooling system: External ventilation 
  • Voltage: 230-240 V 
  • Frequency: 50-60 Hz 
  • Power output: 600 W 
  • Speed control: Fully adjustable 
  • Weight: 6.2 kg 
  • No-volt release: Yes (prevents accidental restart) 

  • Lowest possible maintenance – No carbon brushes to replace, resulting in reduced down-time and the lowest operational cost. 
  • Longest service life – Designed for extended durability, even in continuous-use applications. 
  • Energy efficiency – The brushless design reduces friction, subsequently improving efficiency, reducing power consumption and thereby lowering lifetime costs. 
  • Versatile compatibility – Works seamlessly with any Flux F 400 series pump. 
  • Superior safety – Built-in electronic monitoring and also ATEX certification make it suitable for use in hazardous environments. 
  • Low noise – The motor runs exceptionally quietly, particularly in lower speed ranges, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. 

The Flux FBM 4000 Ex brushless electric drum pump motor is the ideal solution for industries requiring reliable, low-maintenance, but highly efficient pumping solutions. Contact our sales team today to find out more about this motor. 

Three-phase motors for electric drum pumps – built for extreme conditions

Flux three-phase electric drum pump motors are designed for demanding industrial applications where pumps face extreme operating conditions with extended duty cycles. These motors deliver consistent speed, therefore ensuring stable and reliable performance, even in heavy-duty operations. Furthermore, these motors do not use carbon brushes and their low-wear design reduces maintenance requirements. 

With high output power, three-phase motors are typically used with our IBC mixers and F 500 series Viscopower high-viscosity pumps, for handling fluids up to 100,000 mPas.  However, F 414 motors are also available for use with our F 400 series centrifugal pumps. These motors provide exceptional durability, efficiency and long-term reliability for a wide range of electric drum pump applications. 

Built for harsh environments, the F 414 motor is perfect for applications requiring an increased duty cycle. It delivers powerful, consistent performance, even in the most demanding conditions. 

Technical specifications: 

  • Power: 550 W, 750 W, or 1100 W 
  • Voltage: 230V / 400V 
  • Frequency: 50 Hz 
  • Protection class: IP55 
  • Ventilation: External 
  • Weight: 8.8 - 12.8 kg 

Key benefits: 

  • The most powerful Flux drum pump motors 
  • Supports continuous operation in tough environments 
  • Available with a motor protection switch or cable terminal box 
  • Constant speed for steady fluid transfer 

F 403 three-phase electric barrel pump motors are engineered for low-noise and high-efficiency operation. They maintain constant speed, ensuring smooth liquid transfer in high-viscosity applications. 

Speed options: 

  • 2850 rpm – Suitable for fluids up to 30,000 mPas 
  • 1450 rpm – Suitable for fluids up to 80,000 mPas 

Technical specifications: 

  • Power: 550 W 
  • Voltage: 230 V / 400 V 
  • Frequency: 50 Hz 
  • Protection Class: IP55 
  • Explosion Protection: II 2 G Ex e II T3/T4 (optional) 
  • Ventilation: External 
  • Weight: 8 kg 

Key benefits: 

  • Very low wear for extended motor life 
  • Constant speed for reliable performance 
  • Low noise for quiet operation 

The DSM three-phase electric drum pump motor is designed for precision and reliability. With its low noise level and constant speed, it is an excellent choice for industrial pumping applications. 

Speed options: 

  • 750 rpm or 1000 rpm 

 Technical specifications: 

  • Power: 800 W – 2200 W 
  • Voltage: 230 V / 400 V 
  • Frequency: 50 Hz 
  • Protection class: IP 55 
  • Explosion protection: II 2 G Ex e II T3/T4 (optional) 
  • Ventilation: External 
  • Weight: 12.5 - 23 kg 

Key benefits: 

  • Low cost 
  • Reliable constant speed 
  • Exceptionally low noise level 
  • Available with a motor protection switch or cable terminal box 

For high-viscosity applications requiring precise flow control, the Flux spur gear drive motor offers infinitely variable speed adjustment with frequency control. This makes it ideal for processes requiring controlled liquid transfer rates. 

Speed range: 

  • 47 – 472 rpm 

Technical specifications: 

  • Power: 800–1.100 W  
  • Voltage: 230 V / 400 V 
  • Frequency: 50 Hz 
  • Protection class: IP 55 
  • Explosion protection: II 2 G Ex e II T3/T4 (optional) 
  • Ventilation: External 
  • Weight: 12.5 - 23 kg 

Key benefits: 

  • Precise flow control with frequency adjustment 
  • Variable speed for optimised performance 
  • Durable spur gear drive for long-lasting reliability 

Choose the right three-phase electric drum pump motor 

Flux three-phase motors provide high efficiency, long service life and reliable performance, even in the most challenging industrial environments. Whether you need high power, adjustable speed, or continuous-duty operation, there is a Flux electric drum pump motor to meet your specific needs. Please contact our technical sales team for help and advice. 

Electric drum pump- FAQs

An electric drum pump is a motor-driven pump designed to efficiently transfer liquids from drums, barrels and IBC containers. It consists of a quick-release motor and a pump tube, with the fluid inlet at the bottom of the tube. The motor and pump are two separate items which work together to move fluids safely and quickly. The pump tubes are available in different lengths and materials, to suit the container size and liquid/s to be pumped. Both light duty and heavy duty designs are available.  

The pump tube typically houses a long driveshaft with a fixed impeller mounted at the inlet. The pump is inserted into the container. Then the electric motor is connected and a discharge hose is fitted to the pump outlet. When the electric motor is switched on, the motor turns the driveshaft and impeller, which imparts centrifugal force into the liquid. Thus, liquid is driven up the pump tube and pumped away down the hose, to the discharge point. Other pump tube designs are available, e.g. progressive cavity or piston type pumps, which are usually specified for handling high-viscosity media. 

Electric barrel pumps are available with various electric motor types. These include brushed & brushless single-phase motors and three-phase motors, depending upon factors such as the fluid viscosity, transfer distance and power source available on site. 

Selecting the right electric drum pump depends on several factors, including certification required, fluid viscosity, density, desired flow rate, duty cycle and the power supply available at site. For high-viscosity liquids, a three-phase motor with constant speed control is ideal. For continuous operation on single-phase power supply, a brushless, heavy-duty motor offers the best performance. Always check motor power rating, specification, speed range and safety features to ensure it meets your specific requirements. Additionally, consider chemical compatibility of the pump tube with the liquids themselves. Flux manufactures pump tubes in five different materials, to suit a wide range of fluids. For further guidance please see our drum pump selection guide here.

Find the perfect electric drum pump motor for your needs

Choosing the right electric drum pump motor is essential for efficient and reliable fluid transfer. Flux are the drum and IBC pump experts - we can always offer the ideal motor for your application. Get in touch today for expert advice, or explore our full range of electric drum pump motors on our shop pages to find the perfect fit for your application.

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