What are the benefits of a hand fuel pump when transferring fuel?

There are various models available that differ in terms of body material, operating mechanism, flow rates, and fluid compatibility. Examples of different hand fuel transfer pumps are an aluminium lever-operated diesel hand pump, which is a lightweight and corrosion resistant option for dispensing diesel and oil from a drum or storage tank, and a cast iron rotary fuel hand pump, which is a more cost-effective option for transferring oil.

Fuel transfer

Hand fuel pumps are particularly useful for transferring fuel in situations where an electric power source is either unavailable or too expensive to justify the cost. These hand fuel pumps are portable and can be easily transported to different locations, making them ideal for remote areas or temporary job sites. They are often used in fuel container transfer, such as from drum kits or jerry cans. Additionally, hand diesel pumps are generally more affordable and simpler to maintain compared to their electric counterparts, making them a practical choice for many users.

Refuelling for off-road applications

Diesel hand pumps are often used to refuel vehicles and machinery in off-road applications, such as agriculture, construction, quarrying, and mining. This is mainly due to site locations being remote and “off-grid”, meaning access to mains power or an electric output is either difficult or not available.

Lever hand fuel pump

A lever hand fuel pump operates manually, using a lever or handle to transfer or dispense fuel. This type of hand pump is designed for simplicity and ease of use, making it a reliable choice for various applications. By manually moving the lever back and forth, the user creates a suction that draws fuel from the source and dispenses it as needed. They are commonly used in agricultural settings for refuelling tractors and other machinery, on construction sites for equipment and vehicles, and in remote locations where power sources are limited.

Rotary hand fuel pump

A rotary hand pump operates by rotating a handle, which in turn moves fluids and fuels through the pump mechanism. This type of pump is designed for efficiency and ease of use, making it a popular choice for dispensing liquids from barrels, drums, or tanks. The rotary action creates a consistent flow, allowing for smooth and controlled transfer of various liquids, including fuels, oils, and chemicals. One of the key advantages of rotary hand pumps is their durability and low maintenance requirements. They are built to withstand harsh conditions and frequent use, with fewer mechanical parts that can wear out compared to electric pumps

Diaphragm hand fuel pump

A diaphragm hand fuel pump is a manual fuel transfer pump that uses a diaphragm to dispense fuel from a drum or other container. This type of hand fuel pump operates by manually actuating a lever or handle, which flexes the diaphragm to create suction and draw fuel into the pump chamber. When the lever is released, the diaphragm returns to its original position, pushing the fuel out through the discharge valve. Diaphragm hand fuel pumps can handle a variety of liquids, including fuels, oils, and even some chemicals. They are designed to be durable and resistant to corrosion, making them suitable for use with different types of fluids.

The best manual diesel transfer pump is dependent on what application you require the equipment for. To pick the right hand fuel transfer pump you need to know if you the quantity of fuel you need to transfer, the type of fluid and if a power source is unavailable. If you are unsure what hand fuel pump you need, contact our sales team for advice.

Alternatively, if you do have power available on site, consider an electric fuel pump:

Electric fuel pumps are faster and more powerful than hand fuel pumps and are better for transferring large quantities of diesel fuel. Refuelling stations with a fixed-location static fuel tank typically have access to mains power, making an electric fuel transfer pump the most practical choice. It is important to verify the voltage of the mains supply, as the standard is 230V, however 110V is often used on construction sites for safety reasons, and 400V (three-phase) is common in industrial settings where heavy machinery is operated.

You can view our range of electric fuel pumps here.