Click here to view Q2 Specials: Available until 30th June 2026
Shop Online Now With A-FLO! Click here to register
Call Us
0
You currently have 0 items products in your quote
Updating
View Quote

Air Operated Oil Transfer Pumps

A-FLO offers an extensive range of RAASM products that deliver durable, high-performance lubrication and fluid-handling solutions for a wide array of industries.

Shop all RAASM Products

RAASM 1:1 Ratio Stub Pump 23L/min

Product Code: AF-RA-33071

Brand
RAASM
Increase value Decrease value
Description

RAASM 1:1 Ratio Oil Pump is one of the best Ratio Pumps available in the Australian Market. Built with corrosion-resistant materials, RAASM 1:1 Ratio Oil Pumps can be used to transfer various different types of liquids such as oil, diesel, etc.

The RAASM 1:1 Ratio Drum Pump is designed for transferring low viscosity liquids relatively short distances at low pressures. These Drum Pumps are ideal for mounting drums and servicing oil bars. For heavier gear oils and longer distances or for servicing hose reels, higher pressure pumps should be used.

What does a 1:1 Ratio mean?
The pumping ratio, as explained by the Petroleum Equipment Institute (PEI), is the area of the air piston compared to the area of the fluid piston in an air-powered pump. \n \nSo when we have a 1:1 ratio, it means that the amount of air-input pressure is equal to that of the fluid-output pressure. For example, if the pump has 100 PSI of air going in then, there will be 100 PSI of pressure pushing the fluid out.

  • Flow Rates: up to 23LPMs
  • Air Inlet: 1/4" BSP(f)
  • Fluid Outlet: 3/4" BSP(f)
  • Available in stub or drum lengths
  • Ideal for low viscosity transfer of fluids such as oil, waste oil, antifreeze & coolant

MODELS AVAILABLE

  • RAASM 1:1 Ratio 205L Drum Pump (RA-33073)
  • RAASM 1:1 Ratio Stub Pump (RA-33071)
Technical Specifications
Brand RAASM
Dimensions 80x12x12
Litres 23L
LPM 23 LPM
Weight 5 Kg

Australia-Wide Supply & Installation

Delivered & Installed Across Australia

A-FLO Equipment supplies and installs this product to operations across Victoria, Western Australia, Queensland, New South Wales, South Australia and the Northern Territory — including remote and regional sites. Our team manages delivery logistics, site placement and commissioning from our Melbourne VIC and Perth WA locations.

VIC WA QLD NSW SA NT TAS ACT Remote Sites
Head Office

Melbourne VIC

2/127 Cherry Lane
Laverton North VIC 3026

WA Warehouse

Perth WA

27 Harris Rd
Malaga WA 6090

Need technical specifications, dimensions or a custom configuration?

Our team can provide full datasheets, CAD drawings, compliance documentation and a no-obligation quote tailored to your site and application.

Request Specifications Call 1300 235 623

Click the button below to download this page as a PDF:

Related Products

Orion 1:1 Ratio Stub Pump
Orion 1:1 Ratio Stub Pump AF-O-22800
(EA)
Increase value Decrease value
RAASM 3:1 Ratio Stub Pump
RAASM 3:1 Ratio Stub Pump AF-RA-35161
(EA)
Increase value Decrease value
Product Guide

Oil Pumps — How They Work, Warning Signs & When to Replace

An oil pump is the heart of an engine's lubrication system — maintaining the oil pressure and flow that keeps every moving component protected from metal-to-metal contact. Whether you're diagnosing an engine oil pressure problem, sourcing a replacement pump, or specifying an oil transfer pump for workshop use, this guide covers what oil pumps do, the warning signs of failure and when replacement is needed. A-FLO Equipment supplies professional oil transfer pumps for workshop, fleet and industrial oil handling applications across Australia.

Engine Lubrication Oil Transfer Workshop Fleet Maintenance Mining Agriculture
How It Works

How Does an Oil Pump Work?

An engine oil pump is driven by the engine itself — typically off the camshaft, crankshaft or a dedicated drive gear — and runs continuously whenever the engine is running. Located at the bottom of the engine near the oil pan, the pump draws oil through a pickup tube fitted with a mesh screen, pushes it through the oil filter to remove contaminants, and then distributes it under pressure through oil galleries to every critical engine component.

The oil pump must maintain sufficient pressure and flow rate to keep a continuous lubricating film between moving metal surfaces — the crankshaft and main bearings, camshaft and cam bearings, pistons and cylinder walls, and valve train components. Without adequate oil pressure, these surfaces contact each other directly and begin to wear and generate heat almost immediately. A complete loss of oil pressure can cause catastrophic engine failure within seconds of operation.

Types of Engine Oil Pump

Most Common

Gear Pump

Two meshing external gears rotate inside a close-tolerance housing — oil is carried around the outside of the gears in the spaces between gear teeth and the housing, then squeezed out at the outlet. Simple, robust and reliable — the most widely used oil pump design in automotive and industrial engines.

Modern Engines

Rotor (Gerotor) Pump

An inner rotor with fewer lobes rotates inside an outer ring rotor — the eccentric motion creates expanding and contracting chambers that draw and expel oil. More compact than a gear pump for equivalent output, suited to modern engines where packaging space is constrained.

Variable Pressure

Vane Pump

A slotted rotor with sliding vanes creates variable-volume chambers — used in some modern variable displacement oil pump designs that adjust output pressure to engine demand, reducing parasitic power losses at light load and low speed for improved fuel economy.

What an oil pump does for the engine

  • Reduces friction — maintains a hydrodynamic oil film between moving surfaces, preventing direct metal-to-metal contact
  • Removes heat — circulating oil carries heat away from hot engine components including the pistons and bearings
  • Cleans the engine — oil picks up combustion byproducts and wear debris and carries them to the filter for removal
  • Maintains oil pressure — consistent pressure ensures adequate film thickness at all engine speeds and temperatures
  • Hydraulic actuation — on modern engines, oil pressure actuates variable valve timing systems that cannot function without correct pressure
Warning Signs

Signs of a Failing Oil Pump

Identifying oil pump failure early can prevent catastrophic and expensive engine damage. The oil pump works continuously from the moment the engine starts — symptoms of failure are often dramatic and deteriorate rapidly once they appear. Never ignore oil pressure warning signs.

??

Low Oil Pressure Warning Light

The most direct indicator — the oil pressure warning light illuminates when oil pressure drops below the minimum safe operating threshold. If this light comes on while driving, stop the engine as soon as it is safe to do so. Continuing to operate with the oil pressure light on can cause irreversible engine damage within minutes.

??

Oil Pressure Gauge Reading Low

A consistently low oil pressure gauge reading — particularly at idle when pressure is naturally lower — indicates the pump may not be generating sufficient output. Compare against the engine's specified idle and operating pressure range. A gradual downward trend over time can indicate progressive pump wear.

??

Tapping, Knocking or Clattering Noises

Inadequate oil pressure to the valve train causes hydraulic lifters to collapse and tappets to tap — producing a rhythmic ticking noise that increases with engine speed. A deeper knocking sound from lower in the engine indicates the main or rod bearings are running without adequate oil film — a serious warning that the engine is close to failure.

??

Engine Overheating

Oil is a significant heat transfer medium in an engine — circulating oil removes heat from pistons, bearings and other components that water cooling cannot reach directly. Insufficient oil circulation from a failing pump causes localised overheating in these areas, which can lead to piston scuffing, bearing seizure and head gasket failure.

??

Increased Oil Consumption or Unusual Wear

Accelerated engine wear from chronic low oil pressure shows up as increased oil consumption, blue-tinged exhaust smoke from oil burning past worn piston rings, and metal particles visible in a drained oil sample. By the time these symptoms appear, significant internal damage has typically already occurred.

If you see any of these warning signs

  • Do not continue operating the engine — oil pressure failure causes rapid, irreversible internal damage that is expensive to repair
  • Check the oil level immediately — low oil level is the most common cause of low pressure and the easiest to resolve
  • Have the engine inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible — oil pressure testing confirms whether the pump is at fault before committing to replacement
Replacement Guide

When Should an Oil Pump Be Replaced?

An engine oil pump typically lasts the full service life of a well-maintained engine — unlike oil filters and belts, there is no fixed replacement interval. However, replacement becomes necessary when the pump shows signs of failure or when specific conditions make it prudent to replace preventatively.

Confirmed Pump Failure

Low oil pressure confirmed through mechanical pressure testing with the gauge ruling out other causes — replace immediately before further engine damage occurs.

High Mileage — 100,000–150,000 km+

At high mileage, pump rotor and gear clearances increase with wear — if symptoms of low pressure appear or during major engine work, replacement is prudent rather than reinstalling a worn pump.

During Major Engine Repairs

When the oil pan, timing chain or engine is already removed for other work — replacing the oil pump at the same time adds minimal labour cost and eliminates the risk of repeating the disassembly for pump failure later.

After Oil Contamination

Sludge buildup, coolant contamination or metal shavings in the oil can damage pump internals. If the oil is heavily contaminated, the pump should be inspected and replaced if clearances are outside tolerance.

Blocked Pickup Screen

Severe sludge can block the pickup tube screen, starving the pump of oil and causing sudden pressure loss. While the screen can sometimes be cleaned, a pump that has run partially starved may have sustained internal damage warranting replacement.

Performance or Rebuilt Engine

High-performance and rebuilt engines typically specify a new oil pump as a standard rebuild component — the precision clearances in a new pump are critical to achieving correct oil pressure in a freshly machined engine.

How to extend oil pump service life

  • Change oil on schedule — the single most effective maintenance action; degraded oil loses its film strength and deposits sludge that restricts pump pickup flow
  • Use the correct oil specification — the wrong viscosity reduces oil film protection and affects pump efficiency; always follow the manufacturer's specification
  • Maintain correct oil level — operating with low oil level causes the pump to draw air, reducing pressure and accelerating pump wear
  • Check for oil leaks promptly — an unaddressed external oil leak that drops the sump level can cause sudden oil pump starvation
Frequently Asked Questions

Oil Pump FAQ

What causes an engine oil pump to fail?

The most common causes of oil pump failure are: extended oil change intervals — degraded oil loses its film strength and deposits varnish and sludge inside the pump; low oil level causing the pump to draw air and run partially starved; incorrect oil viscosity — oil that is too thin reduces pump sealing efficiency and pressure output; sludge blocking the pickup screen — restricting flow before oil even reaches the pump; and metal debris from internal engine wear entering the pump and damaging the precision-fitted rotors or gears. Most oil pump failures are preventable through correct oil maintenance.

Can low oil pressure be caused by something other than the oil pump?

Yes — low oil pressure has several possible causes beyond the pump itself. Low oil level is the first thing to check and the most common cause. A blocked pickup tube screen restricts flow before it reaches the pump. Worn main or rod bearings increase the clearances that pressurised oil must seal, causing pressure to drop even with a functioning pump. A faulty oil pressure sender or gauge can give a false low-pressure reading. Incorrect oil viscosity — particularly oil that is too thin — reduces pressure in the oil galleries. Always perform oil pressure testing with a mechanical gauge before condemning the pump.

What is the difference between an engine oil pump and an oil transfer pump?

An engine oil pump is an internal engine component that circulates motor oil within a running engine — driven by the engine's cam or crank drive and not user-accessible during normal operation. An oil transfer pump is an external device used to move oil between containers, drums and machinery sumps — for filling crankcases, gearboxes and hydraulic systems, or evacuating used oil during a service. A-FLO Equipment supplies professional electric and manual oil transfer pumps for workshop, fleet and industrial oil dispensing applications across Australia.

Does engine oil viscosity affect oil pump performance?

Yes — oil viscosity directly affects oil pump output pressure and the film thickness maintained between bearing surfaces. Oil that is too thin (lower viscosity than specified) reduces oil film thickness at the bearings, allowing surfaces to make closer contact and reducing measured pressure in the oil galleries. Oil that is too thick (higher viscosity than specified) increases pump load, may cause slow pressure build-up on cold starts and can restrict flow to tight clearance components. Always use the oil viscosity specified by the engine manufacturer — particularly important in modern engines with variable valve timing systems that are highly sensitive to oil pressure and viscosity.

What professional oil transfer pumps does A-FLO supply for workshop use?

A-FLO Equipment supplies professional oil transfer pumps for Australian workshops, service centres and fleet operations — including electric gear pumps for bulk oil dispensing from 20L, 60L and 205L drums; air-operated oil transfer pumps for workshop bay installations; manual barrel pumps for portable drum decanting; and complete lubrication bay systems with overhead hose reels, digital meters and dispensing controls. A-FLO can design a complete workshop oil dispensing setup for your service bay — call 1300 235 623 to discuss.

Need an oil transfer pump for your workshop or fleet?

Product Guide

Fluid Transfer Pumps — Electric, Pneumatic, Manual & Engine-Driven for Australian Industry

A fluid transfer pump is a device used to move liquids from one location to another safely and efficiently — from diesel and oils through to chemicals, lubricants and water. A-FLO Equipment supplies professional fluid transfer pumps in manual, electric (12V, 24V and 240V), pneumatic and engine-driven configurations for agriculture, mining, construction, manufacturing, automotive and marine applications across Australia. The right pump depends on the fluid, flow rate, power source and mounting requirements of your specific application.

Agriculture Mining Construction Automotive Manufacturing Marine
4 Power Types Manual, electric, pneumatic and engine-driven
Multiple Fluids Diesel, oil, grease, chemicals, water and more
Fixed & Mobile Wall, tank and trolley mount or portable configurations
Compatibility First Fluid type determines pump materials — always confirm
Applications

What Is a Fluid Transfer Pump Used For?

Fluid transfer pumps are used wherever a liquid needs to be moved from one container, tank or system to another — with control, accuracy and safety. Across Australian industry, the most common applications span fuel handling, lubrication systems, hydraulic servicing, chemical dispensing and general liquid transfer.

Diesel & Fuel Transfer

Moving diesel from storage tanks to vehicles, machinery and generators — the most common fluid transfer application across mining, agriculture, construction and transport.

Oil & Lubricant Dispensing

Controlled dispensing of engine oil, hydraulic oil, gear oil and lubricants from bulk containers to machinery — in workshops, service bays and field service vehicles.

Hydraulic System Servicing

Draining and filling hydraulic systems on machinery and equipment — using pumps with appropriate pressure ratings and fluid compatibility for hydraulic fluid.

Chemical Transfer

Moving agricultural chemicals, fertilisers, cleaning solutions and industrial chemicals between containers — requires chemical-compatible pump materials specific to each fluid.

Water Transfer

Moving water between tanks, filling systems and washdown applications — centrifugal and diaphragm pumps suited to high-volume water transfer in agricultural and civil applications.

Drum & IBC Emptying

Pumping from 200L drums and IBCs — barrel pumps, drum pumps and rotary hand pumps for decanting oils, chemicals, solvents and viscous liquids from bulk containers.

Pump Types

Types of Fluid Transfer Pump — Choosing the Right Technology

Different pump technologies are suited to different fluids and applications. Understanding which pump type matches your fluid's viscosity, your required flow rate and your power source is the foundation of correct pump selection.

Low Viscosity Fluids

Vane Pump

Rotating slotted rotor with sliding vanes — the most common technology for diesel, kerosene and light lubricant transfer. Good flow rates at moderate pressures. Self-priming. Used in 12V, 24V and 240V diesel transfer pumps.

High Viscosity Fluids

Gear Pump

Meshing gear set moves fluid between tooth cavities — handles high-viscosity oils, hydraulic fluid and lubricants effectively at consistent flow and higher pressures. The standard technology for oil dispensing and lubrication systems.

Versatile — Multi-Fluid

Diaphragm Pump

Flexible diaphragm displaces fluid without rotating seals — suited to viscous, abrasive, corrosive and shear-sensitive fluids. Available in air-operated (AODD) versions for hazardous area and chemical applications. Self-priming, can run dry.

High Volume — Water & Fuel

Centrifugal Pump

Rotating impeller generates centrifugal force — high flow rates for low-viscosity fluids including water, diesel and thin oils. Not self-priming — requires a flooded inlet or external priming. Suited to fixed high-volume transfer applications.

Drum & IBC Decanting

Barrel / Drum Pump

Submersible tube pump inserted directly into drums and IBCs — available in manual, electric and pneumatic versions for oils, chemicals, solvents and viscous liquids. Compact, portable and easy to clean between fluids.

Manual & Low Volume

Rotary Hand Pump

No power source required — hand-operated rotary or lever action for low-volume fuel, oil and chemical transfer from drums and tanks. Ideal for remote areas, backup use or where power is unavailable.

Fluid Transfer Pump Selector

Use this guide to match your fluid, viscosity and application to the correct pump technology before purchase.

Fluid Viscosity Recommended Pump Type Typical Power Source
Diesel Low Vane pump or centrifugal pump 12V, 24V, 240V, air
Engine / hydraulic oil High Gear pump or diaphragm pump 240V AC, air-operated
Grease Very high Piston / ram pump Air-operated, electric
Chemicals / corrosives Low–medium AODD diaphragm pump (chemical-grade materials) Air-operated
Water Low Centrifugal or diaphragm pump 240V AC, engine-driven
AdBlue (DEF) Low Dedicated AdBlue pump (stainless wetted parts) 12V, 24V, 240V
Drum / IBC contents Variable Barrel / drum pump matched to fluid viscosity Manual, electric, air
Buying Guide

How to Select the Right Fluid Transfer Pump

Correct pump selection prevents equipment damage, ensures safe fluid handling and delivers the flow rate and pressure your application needs. Work through these five factors before making a purchase — or call A-FLO to get a recommendation based on your specific fluid, site and throughput requirements.

01

Identify the Fluid — and Confirm Chemical Compatibility

The fluid being transferred determines everything — pump type, seal material, body construction and hose specification. Diesel and oil pumps are not interchangeable with chemical or corrosive fluid pumps. Confirm that the pump's wetted materials (seals, body, impeller) are compatible with your specific fluid before purchase. Incorrect material selection causes rapid seal failure, contamination and potential safety incidents.

02

Check Viscosity — It Determines Pump Technology

Viscosity is the single most important technical factor in pump selection. Low-viscosity fluids (diesel, water, thin lubricants) — centrifugal or vane pumps. Medium-viscosity fluids (engine oil, gear oil, hydraulic fluid) — gear or diaphragm pumps. High-viscosity fluids (heavy oils, adhesives, viscous chemicals) — gear, progressive cavity or piston pumps. Using the wrong pump technology for a high-viscosity fluid causes overloading, poor flow and premature failure.

03

Determine Flow Rate and Outlet Pressure

Flow rate (litres per minute) determines how quickly the transfer is completed — and must be matched to your throughput requirement. Outlet pressure (bar or PSI) determines whether the pump can overcome pipe friction losses, hose length and any height difference between the pump and the delivery point. Selecting a pump with insufficient pressure will result in reduced flow or inability to deliver to height.

04

Match the Power Source to Your Site

Manual / hand pumps — no power required, low flow, portable. 12V DC — vehicle battery powered, ideal for mobile and field use. 24V DC — heavy vehicle powered applications. 240V AC — mains powered, higher flow rates, fixed depot and workshop. Air-operated — compressed air powered, required for hazardous areas, no electrical ignition risk. Engine-driven — fully off-grid, high flow for remote high-volume applications.

05

Choose Fixed or Portable Mounting

For mobile applications — portable drum pumps, 12V DC barrel pumps, trolley-mounted transfer units and trailer-mounted configurations. For fixed installations — wall-mounted dispensing units, tank-mounted pumps on self-bunded diesel or oil tanks, and workshop lube bay systems with overhead hose reels. The mounting configuration affects hose length, reel requirements and access control options.

Maintenance Guide

Fluid Transfer Pump Maintenance Requirements

Regular maintenance extends the service life of your fluid transfer pump, maintains flow rate and pressure performance, and prevents leaks or contamination incidents that create safety and compliance risks. Build these tasks into your scheduled maintenance program and document them for compliance records.

Inspect Hoses & Fittings

Check suction and delivery hoses, camlock fittings and hose clamps for cracks, swelling, wear or loose connections — before first use each day in high-demand applications.

Clean & Replace Filters

Inspect and clean inlet strainers regularly — replace fuel and oil filters on schedule. A blocked filter restricts flow, increases pump load and allows contaminants to reach downstream equipment.

Lubricate Moving Parts

For pumps with external bearings, gears or drive shafts — apply the manufacturer-specified lubricant at scheduled intervals. Do not over-lubricate as this can cause seal damage or attract contaminants.

Inspect Seals & Gaskets

Check shaft seals, body gaskets and O-rings for deterioration, hardening or swelling — signs of chemical incompatibility or end of service life. Replace before leaks develop rather than after.

Monitor Flow & Pressure

A drop in flow rate or outlet pressure signals internal wear, a partially blocked strainer or a developing seal leak. Address performance drops early before they escalate to pump failure.

Flush Between Fluids

When switching between fluid types or after handling corrosive or reactive liquids — flush the pump thoroughly with a compatible flushing fluid before storing or using with a different product. Cross-contamination can damage the pump and the downstream equipment or fluid.

Check Power Connections

Inspect electrical connections, cable insulation and terminal crimps for corrosion, loose connections or chafing — particularly on mobile units subject to vibration. For 240V installations, have a licensed electrician inspect connections at the scheduled service interval.

Follow Manufacturer Guidelines

Each pump model has specific maintenance procedures, service intervals and spare parts — follow the user manual for your specific pump and keep a maintenance log for compliance and warranty purposes.

Why maintenance matters for fluid transfer pumps

  • Optimal performance — correct flow rate and pressure maintained across the service life of the pump
  • Operational safety — prevents leaks, spills and contamination incidents that create WHS and environmental liability
  • Regulatory compliance — particularly important in mining, chemical handling and fuel transfer where strict standards apply
  • Cost-effective operation — routine maintenance prevents premature failure and costly unplanned replacement of pump and downstream equipment
Frequently Asked Questions

Fluid Transfer Pump FAQ

What is the difference between a gear pump and a vane pump?

A gear pump uses meshing gears to displace fluid — it handles high-viscosity fluids like engine oil, hydraulic oil and lubricants effectively and delivers consistent flow at higher pressures. A vane pump uses a rotating slotted rotor with sliding vanes — better suited to lower-viscosity fluids like diesel, kerosene and light lubricants, typically delivering higher flow rates at lower pressures. For diesel transfer, vane pumps are the standard choice. For oil dispensing and lubrication systems, gear pumps are preferred.

Can I use a fluid transfer pump for chemicals and corrosive liquids?

Some fluid transfer pumps are specifically designed for chemical and corrosive liquid handling — but standard diesel or oil pumps are not. Chemical-compatible pumps use construction materials such as stainless steel, PVDF, polypropylene or PTFE-lined wetted components that resist corrosion and chemical attack. Never use a standard diesel or oil pump with chemicals or corrosives — incorrect material selection causes rapid seal failure and potential contamination or safety incidents. A-FLO can advise on the correct pump specification for your fluid — call 1300 235 623.

What is an air-operated double diaphragm (AODD) pump and when should I use one?

An AODD pump uses compressed air to alternately flex two diaphragms — creating a reciprocating pumping action with no rotating electrical components. AODD pumps are the preferred choice for hazardous area applications where electrical ignition risk must be eliminated, for corrosive and aggressive chemicals where chemical-grade materials are needed, and for shear-sensitive or abrasive fluids that would damage rotating pump elements. They are self-priming, can run dry without damage and handle viscous or particulate-laden fluids.

Do fluid transfer pumps require a flow meter?

A flow meter is not required for every fluid transfer application — but it is strongly recommended wherever accurate volume tracking is needed for cost allocation, billing, compliance or inventory control. For diesel and fuel transfer, a digital flow meter with resettable batch counter is standard in professional setups. For oil dispensing in workshops, a meter enables accurate records of lubricant usage per vehicle or service. A-FLO supplies digital flow meters compatible with diesel, oil and other fluid transfer pump setups.

What fluid transfer pumps does A-FLO Equipment supply?

A-FLO supplies a comprehensive range of professional fluid transfer pumps including 12V, 24V and 240V electric diesel transfer pumps from Ultraflo and PIUSI; air-operated diaphragm pumps for hazardous area and chemical applications; gear pumps and oil transfer pumps for workshop lubrication systems; drum and barrel pumps for decanting from 200L drums and IBCs; and rotary hand pumps for manual low-volume transfer. Complete pump kits with hoses, meters, nozzles and filtration are available. Call 1300 235 623 or contact A-FLO online for a recommendation.

Need help selecting the right fluid transfer pump?

Products to compare:
Comparing Products