Aravind SundaramAir-Operated Double Diaphragm (AODD) pumps are positive displacement pumps in use across various industries. Simple design, ease of maintenance, and capability to operate in challenging environments are the reasons why AODD pumps have become a reliable solution for both portable and stationary fluid transfer applications. The global AODD pumps market was valued at approximately US$1.8 billion in 2023. It is projected to reach US$2.9 billion by 2031, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.3 per cent.
Meet Jain, Growth Manager of Antlia Engineering Works is working on building a top-notch made in India AODD pumps manufacturer. In a short span of time, Antlia is among the league of top AODD pumps manufacturer in India. Apart from blue-chip domestic clients, Antlia is also emerging as a major exporter. Meet Jain shares his insights on the AODD pumps market and how Antlia differentiates itself from its competitors.
Emerging Segments for AODD Pumps
Traditionally used in oil & gas, chemicals, paints, food & beverages, and mining, AODD pumps are now finding traction in newer sectors like:
- Renewable energy: Biofuel transfer and handling corrosive fluids in solar panel cleaning.
- Electronics manufacturing: For ultrapure chemical handling and slurry transfers.
- Battery and EV manufacturing: For electrolyte circulation in battery plants.
- Pharmaceutical R&D: Small-batch fluid handling in modular labs.
- Agritech & fertigation systems: Where controlled chemical injection is needed.
These segments demand compact, efficient, and contamination-free pumping solutions, where AODD pumps are increasingly becoming relevant.
Best Use Cases in Developed Markets (EU & North America)
In developed economies like Europe and North America, AODD pumps are widely used in:
- Pharmaceutical manufacturing (especially for hygienic, ATEX-compliant operations)
- Specialty chemicals & adhesives
- Paints and coatings (due to viscosity-handling efficiency)
- Food-grade applications (with FDA-compliant models)
- Clean energy segments (like lithium-ion and hydrogen sectors)
The focus in these markets is on precision, safety, and compliance, making premium AODD pump models a strong fit.
Environmental & Energy Efficiency Perspective
It’s true AODD pumps are often critiqued for being less energy-efficient due to air consumption. However, modern designs, like those from Antlia, use air-saving valves and low pulsation tech to significantly reduce air demand. They excel in energy savings in intermittent-duty applications, where they outperform centrifugal or gear pumps.
No electricity, no seals, and self-priming features reduce energy losses from leakage or downtime. From a sustainability standpoint, when used correctly, they minimize fluid waste, handle recycling flows, and require less maintenance, lowering lifecycle emissions.
Deep-Tech Interventions & Operational Efficiency
The AODD pump industry is seeing smart innovations, such as IoT-enabled pump monitoring for predictive maintenance, smart diaphragm failure detection systems with the help of leak detection sensors and lube free air valve. These interventions have reduced unscheduled downtimes by up to 40% in large-scale setups, and energy consumption by 10–20% in modernized pump systems.
Major Indian Players
India’s AODD pump landscape includes brands like Sandpiper India (Warren Rupp’s partners), Yamada India, Wilden and Antlia Engineering Works. Antlia distinguishes itself with an approach to technical solutioning, high focus on consultative, and engineering-first approach. It is among the top 3 domestic AODD pump manufacturers and is rapidly growing its influence in both the Indian and international markets. Moreover, Antlia serves high-demand clients i.e. Ministry of Defence, IOCL, Exide, Asian Paints, etc. in India and its global footprints are expanding rapidly.
Future Roadmap & Export-Led Growth
The future for AODD pumps is geared toward rising demand from waste management, clean energy, and pharmaceutical industries. Export-led growth, especially to Africa, Middle East, and South America where Indian products offer the best price-performance balance. Antlia is keen on expanding its capacity and to the preferred non-China alternative in industrial pump sourcing.
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Aravind Sundaram
Guest Author
