Diesel and Fuel Transfer Pumps

How to choose a diesel transfer pump

Start with how much fuel you move and how often. Filling a generator or small plant from a bowser needs a modest flow, while refuelling a fleet or moving fuel between bulk tanks needs far more. Then check the supply: 110v for construction sites, 230v single-phase for most farm and workshop buildings, or 400v three-phase for depots and industrial sites.

Finally, check the location. If the pump will sit in an area classified as hazardous because flammable vapour may be present, it must be an ATEX pump. The standard pumps are for general, non-hazardous areas.

Fuel transfer pumps we stock

The GMP Fuel Oil High Volume RED diesel transfer pumps have a cast iron body, open impeller, and Viton mechanical seal and check valve. A non-return valve holds fuel in the suction line between uses, and they self-prime from up to 6 m, so they can draw from an IBC or tank at or below the pump inlet. Sizes run from 1 inch to 3 inch:

• 1 inch, 140 l/min: small plant, generators and jerry cans
• 1½ inch, 290 l/min: road plant refuelling and medium tank filling
• 2 inch, 450 l/min (390 l/min on the 110v model): bulk diesel on construction sites and farms
• 3 inch, 850 l/min to 1,200 l/min: high volume commercial and industrial transfer

The GMP RED ATEX versions use flameproof ATEX motors with cast iron casings and impellers, stainless steel shafts and Viton seals. They come in 230v and 400v, in sizes from 1½ inch to 3 inch with flows up to 1,200 l/min, and handle liquids up to 60°C.

For diesel exhaust fluid, use a dedicated pump. Our Oreal CDI AdBlue transfer pumps are a separate range, as AdBlue needs different materials from a diesel pump.

Installation points

• Use hose rated for diesel on both suction and delivery. Water layflat hose is not suitable.
• Fit a suction strainer or filter to keep tank sediment out of the pump.
• Add an inline flow meter and trigger nozzle if you need to measure or dispense fuel. These are not included with the pumps.
• Stand the pump on a bunded base or drip tray, and follow the oil storage rules that apply to your tank.

Suction lift has limits for every pump. Our guide to suction lift and NPSH explains how pipe length and height affect priming.

Frequently asked questions

Can these pumps transfer petrol?

No. Both the standard and ATEX GMP RED fuel transfer pumps are for diesel, gas oil and paraffin only and are not suitable for petrol. Petrol is far more volatile than diesel and needs equipment designed and certified specifically for it.

Do I need an ATEX diesel transfer pump?

You need an ATEX pump if it will be installed in an area classified as hazardous in your site’s risk assessment, for example where flammable vapour may be present. The standard GMP RED range is for general, non-hazardous areas. If you are unsure of your site’s zoning, check before ordering.

What size fuel transfer pump do I need?

Match the pump to the job. A 1 inch pump at 140 l/min suits generators and small plant, 1½ inch suits medium tanks and road plant, 2 inch suits bulk diesel on farms and sites, and 3 inch pumps handle high volume industrial transfer at up to 1,200 l/min.

Can a diesel transfer pump draw from a tank below it?

Yes. The GMP RED pumps self-prime from up to 6 m, so they can lift fuel from an IBC or tank at or below the pump inlet without a pre-filled suction line. A non-return valve keeps fuel in the suction line between uses, so the pump primes quickly next time.

Do the pumps come with a nozzle and meter?

No. The pumps are supplied without a flow meter or dispensing nozzle. For refuelling plant or recording fuel use, add an inline flow meter and a trigger nozzle on the delivery hose. Ask us if you need help matching fittings to the pump’s port size.