Magnetic Drive Pumps

February 2, 2024 by

Magnetic Drive Pumps For Homebrewing

Magnetic drive pumps, often used in homebrewing, operate by using a magnetic field to generate the rotation of the pump impeller. This design eliminates the need for a traditional shaft seal, preventing leaks and contamination, which makes them ideal for handling various fluids.

In a standard centrifugal pump, the drive shaft from the motor is connected to the impeller through the pump housing, necessitating some form of seal where the drive shaft enters the housing.

However, in a magnetic drive pump, the impeller and the pumped fluid are contained within a hermetically sealed housing. The drive shaft from the motor rotates an assembly of magnets on the outside of the housing.

Opposing this, on the inside of the housing, is a matching ring of magnets on a shaft attached to the impeller. Torque is transferred through the housing as a result of the coupled magnets.

When the pump motor starts, the external bell housing starts to rotate, causing the rotation of the magnetic field to impact the inner impeller magnet. As both magnets rotate in unison, the impeller spins and moves fluid throughout the pump.

Magnetic drive pumps are particularly beneficial for homebrewing due to their seal-less design, which prevents leaks and contamination.

They are also known for their endurance and longevity. They can handle high temperatures, which is crucial for the brewing process.

However, they do have limitations, such as the inability to handle solids well, and they cannot be run dry.

In terms of specific models, the Stainless Magnetic Drive Pump 15R is an example of a pump used in homebrewing. It has a maximum flow of 16/19 L/min and a maximum head of 2.3/3.4m. It operates at a speed of 2600/3000 rpm and is heat resistant up to 120°C. Another example is the BR Series Magnetic Drive Pumps, which are engineered for high temperatures up to 120ºC (248ºF) and offer IP44 protection, ideal for the wet environments of a brewery.

What Are The Advantages Of Using A Magnetic Drive Pump For Homebrewing

Magnetic drive pumps offer several advantages for homebrewing:

Leak-Proof Design: Magnetic drive pumps are essentially leak-proof, eliminating the risk of fluid leakage as there are no mechanical seals to fail over time. This is particularly beneficial in homebrewing where preventing leaks and contamination is crucial.
High-Temperature Handling: These pumps can handle high temperatures, which is essential for the brewing process.
Low Maintenance: Magnetic drive pumps are known for their low maintenance and longevity. They can last for years without needing anything replaced, which is a significant advantage for homebrewers who want to focus on the brewing process rather than equipment maintenance.
Flow Control: The magnetic-drive feature allows you to pump slower than the full output rate by attaching a valve to the output of the pump. This gives you more control over the flow rate, which can be beneficial in various stages of the brewing process.
Quiet Operation: Compared to traditional pumps, magnetic drive pumps operate more quietly, which can make the brewing process more enjoyable.
Safety and Environmental Compliance: Magnetic drive pumps are designed to meet strict environmental and safety standards, making them suitable for applications that require adherence to these standards.

However, it’s important to note that these pumps do have limitations. They cannot handle solids well, and they cannot be run dry. Therefore, they are best suited for liquid-only applications in homebrewing.

Brewzilla Magnetic Drive Pumps

The BrewZilla magnetic drive pumps are designed to enhance the homebrewing process by providing a reliable and efficient means of transferring and circulating wort during brewing. These pumps are specifically tailored for use with BrewZilla brewing systems, offering features that cater to the needs of homebrewers seeking to upgrade their brewing setup.

Key Features and Advantages

High-Temperature Capability: The BrewZilla magnetic drive pumps are capable of handling high temperatures, making them suitable for the boiling process involved in brewing. This capability ensures that the pump can manage the transfer and circulation of hot wort without risk of damage or performance degradation.
Magnetic Drive Mechanism: The use of a magnetic drive mechanism in these pumps eliminates the need for a direct mechanical connection between the motor and the impeller. This design reduces the risk of leaks and contamination, as there are no seals that can fail. It also contributes to the pump’s durability and low maintenance requirements.
Upgrade and Replacement Options: The BrewZilla magnetic drive pumps are available as upgrades or replacements for existing BrewZilla systems. For instance, the Green Demon pump is a 25-watt high-temperature magnetic drive pump designed as an upgrade for the 65L BrewZilla or as a replacement for the 100L model. This pump is noted for its ability to perform more powerful whirlpools, leading to better hop extraction and more efficient cooling. It also facilitates easier wort transfer, especially when using additional equipment like a boiler extension.
Electrical Configuration: The pumps come with the necessary connectors for wiring to the BrewZilla’s circuit board, although some light electrical terminal rewiring may be required during installation. This flexibility allows for a straightforward integration into the brewing system, although it’s important to note that the pump does not come with a plug and requires some electrical knowledge for proper installation.
Flow Rate and Efficiency: With a flow rate of 5 gallons per minute (19 liters per minute), the upgraded BrewZilla pumps enhance the efficiency of the brewing process. This improved flow rate supports more effective wort recirculation and transfer, contributing to a smoother and more controlled brewing operation.
Compatibility and Installation: The pumps are designed for compatibility with specific BrewZilla models, including the 35L and 65L units. Installation options include direct swap-outs for existing pumps or alternative configurations that may require additional fittings or hoses.

The pumps are also designed to be non-self-priming and must be positioned correctly to function efficiently.

In summary, the BrewZilla magnetic drive pumps offer a range of benefits for homebrewers, including high-temperature capability, leak-proof design, and enhanced flow rates. These features, combined with the flexibility of upgrade and replacement options, make these pumps a valuable addition to any BrewZilla brewing system.

Which Brewzilla Models Are Equipped With Magnetic Drive Pumps

The BrewZilla models that are equipped with magnetic drive pumps include:

BrewZilla Gen4 110v 35L 9.25 Gallon Electric Brewing System
BrewZilla All Grain Brewing System | Gen 4 | 35L | 9.25G | 110V
BrewZilla V3.1.1 All Grain Brewing System With Pump - 35L/9.25G (220V)
KegLand Robobrew / BrewZilla V3.1.1 All Grain Brewing System With Pump 35L 9.25G
BrewZilla 35L with Pump - Gen 3.1.1 - 110-120V
BrewZilla All Grain Brewing System | Gen 3.1.1 | 35L/9.25G | 220V
Robobrew / BrewZilla V3.1 All Grain Brewing System With Pump

These systems feature built-in magnetic drive pumps that are used for recirculating wort during the mash and can also be used for transferring and cleaning in place (CIP).