Skip to main content

The metal industry relies on powerful and durable pumping systems to support a wide range of operations—from raw material handling and cooling to chemical treatment and waste management. Whether in steelworks, foundries, fabrication plants, or metal finishing facilities, pumps must withstand abrasive, corrosive, and high-temperature conditions while maintaining reliable performance under heavy use.

Key Applications

1. Cooling and Quenching Systems
Metal forming and machining generate extreme heat. Pumps circulate water, oils, or specialised coolants through quenching tanks, heat exchangers, and process lines to control temperatures and prevent warping or cracking of components.

2. Chemical Pickling and Surface Treatment
Before painting, coating, or welding, metal parts are treated in chemical baths to remove scale, rust, or oxides. Pumps are used to transfer and circulate aggressive acids and cleaning agents. Magnetic drive, diaphragm, or vertical pumps are chosen for their resistance to harsh chemicals.

3. Slurry and Slag Handling
Metal processing produces abrasive slurries and heavy by-products such as slag. Progressive cavity and heavy-duty centrifugal pumps handle these thick, solids-laden materials, maintaining flow without excessive wear.

4. Lubricant and Coolant Circulation
CNC and metalworking machines depend on pumps to deliver lubricants and cutting fluids to working surfaces. These systems require continuous flow to ensure clean cuts, prolong tool life, and maintain precision.

5. Electroplating and Anodising
Pumps are integral to the electrochemical processes used to coat or treat metal surfaces. Corrosion-resistant pumps maintain bath circulation and chemical dosing, supporting uniform coatings and process consistency.

6. Wastewater and Effluent Transfer
Metal processing facilities must handle oily water, acidic rinses, and contaminated liquids in line with environmental regulations. Pumps transport these fluids to treatment systems or disposal points safely and efficiently.

Industry Demands

  • Abrasion and Corrosion Resistance: Pumps must cope with harsh chemicals, solids, and high temperatures.

  • Heavy-Duty Construction: Reliability under continuous, demanding conditions is essential.

  • Chemical Compatibility: Material selection must match aggressive process fluids.

  • Efficiency and Uptime: Downtime is costly—pumps must perform reliably with minimal maintenance.

How Tomlinson Hall Can Help?

With over a century of experience in pump distribution and engineering solutions, Tomlinson Hall & Co Ltd supports the metal industry with pumping systems engineered for strength, endurance, and efficiency. As a distributor for some of the world’s leading pump manufacturers, we supply high-performance pumps suited to abrasive, corrosive, and high-load environments.

Our in-house team of technical experts can assist with:

  • Pump selection and specification for slurries, chemicals, and cooling systems

  • Corrosion- and abrasion-resistant pump technologies

  • On-site consultations and troubleshooting

  • Bespoke pump builds and modifications

  • Full aftersales support, including servicing and repairs

Whether you’re running a foundry, machining shop, or surface treatment plant, Tomlinson Hall delivers the rugged, reliable pump solutions you need.

Need help finding the right pump for your metal processing operation?
Get in touch with our team today—we’re here to help.