55 gal drum: What transfer pump to use?

[Bob Mulry]

Originally Posted by KRatcliff

I think you are reading it wrong as far as pressurizing goes. I am reading it as adding slightly more pressure than the ambient air pressure which would flow the fuel from one barrel to another. It takes less pressure to move the fuel than what is within the barrel when they "pop" with temperature changes.

It is exactly the inverse of siphoning where you are pulling a vacuum. In both instances you are adding air/oxygen to the original barrel. And you are adding air/oxygen when using a transfer pump.

Even the fuel tank in your car/truck has an air vent that draws air/oxygen into it as the fuel pump removes it during consumption. I think you and Bob are referring to situations that truly pressurize the barrels way beyond what was suggested. YMMV.

Lets do a little Middle School math................

55 gallon drum has a diameter of 22"

Area of a circle (end of drum) = 2Pi x R squared

Area = 760 square inches

760 square inches X 25psi = 19,006 pounds of force against the barrel end...

You might want to rethink your position on the safety of low air pressure in a non-pressure vessel.....

Bob