EODD Pump Blog | Cognito

EODD Pumps for Paints, Coatings & Inks | Cognito

Written by Tim Caldwell | Jul 31, 2025 8:01:47 PM

Paints, coatings, and inks are notoriously tough fluids to move. Whether you're dealing with abrasive pigments, shear-sensitive emulsions, or solvent-based slurries, you need equipment that can handle the job without breaking down—or breaking the bank.

Cognito’s electric operated double diaphragm (EODD) pumps are designed for exactly this. Built to withstand harsh conditions, reduce waste, and maximize uptime, they offer a clear performance advantage over conventional pumping systems.

“These are some of the most shear-sensitive fluids out there,” explains Tim Caldwell, Business Development Manager at Cognito. “Centrifugal or gear pumps are just too rough. They change the physical properties of the product. Our EODD pumps keep the fluid intact, just like squeezing a tube of toothpaste.”

The Challenges of Pumping Paints, Coatings & Inks

If you work in process engineering, plant maintenance, or operations for paints or ink manufacturing, you already know the common pain points:

  • Variable viscosity — From thin solvents to thick latex, flow properties change dramatically.
  • Shear sensitivity — Many coatings and emulsions are easily damaged by harsh pumping action.
  • Clogging & abrasion — Solid pigments and additives wear down equipment and create blockages.
  • Leaks and downtime — Frequent maintenance from worn seals and inefficient pumps stalls production.

Why Traditional Pumping Tech Falls Short

Let’s break it down:

  • Gear and centrifugal pumps create high shear, often degrading product quality during transfer.
  • AODD (pneumatic) pumps, while versatile, are inefficient and hard to fine-tune for precision flow.
  • Rotary and piston pumps come with high maintenance demands and are prone to leakage and seal failure.

“Dry running is a killer for most pumps,” Caldwell says. “But our EODD units don’t overheat or fail in those situations. They can handle dry conditions without damage.”

Why Cognito’s EODD Pumps Excel in Paints, Coatings & Inks

Cognito’s pumps are engineered specifically for rugged, high-demand applications. Here’s what sets them apart:

Shear-Free Operation

"Other technologies shear or separate the fluid," says Caldwell. "But our diaphragm pumps move the fluid gently, which is critical for maintaining product integrity."

Leak-Free, Sealless Design

No rotating components in the fluid path.. No mechanical seals. No leaks. A sealed diaphragm design protects both your product and the pump itself.

Handles Abrasives with Ease

"Inks and some paints are very abrasive, and that’s where traditional pumps wear out fast. Our pumps use hardened stainless steel parts that extend life significantly," Caldwell explains.

Variable Speed, Full Control

"It gives you the flexibility to use one pump for different applications," Caldwell adds. "You can run fast to empty a tank or slow down to fill buckets with precision."

Dry-Run Protection

Unlike other pumps that burn out or seize when run dry, Cognito units include dry-run capability with zero damage.

Spill Containment with Smart Sensors

All Cognito pumps come standard with a containment chamber and leak detection sensor that communicates directly with your plant’s PLC for immediate shutdown and containment if a diaphragm rupture occurs.

"The sensor sends a signal to the PLC," says Caldwell. "Instead of flooding the floor with fluid, the system stops the pump immediately. That’s a big deal for safety and maintenance."

Real-World Results from Paint Operations

In a recent case, a corrugated packaging plant replaced AODD units used in sump applications with Cognito EODD pumps. The old pumps ran 24/7, demanding constant air compression. After the switch? The new EODD units ran less than one hour a day, reducing energy usage by 75% and eliminating strain on the air compressor.

“The facility avoided having to buy another air compressor,” says Caldwell. “That’s a huge cost they dodged, plus they’re saving on energy every single day.”

Maintenance teams at the plant report increased reliability and easier servicing, backed by Cognito’s simplified parts and intuitive design.

Designed with the User in Mind

Cognito’s EODD pumps are built for demanding environments with features that simplify everyday use:

  • Quick, on-site servicing means you don’t need to take the pump offline.
  • IoT capabilities through SmartINSIGHTS™ offer 24/7 remote condition monitoring, preventive maintenance alerts, and performance analytics.
  • Compatible across applications—from solvent transfer to pigment dispersion and final packaging.

“We specifically designed these pumps for harsh, abrasive applications like ceramic slurries," Caldwell notes. "That’s why they’re also perfect for paints and inks."

The Smart Choice for Paints, Coatings & Inks

From variable-speed control and abrasion resistance to leak protection and energy savings, Cognito’s EODD pumps redefine what’s possible in industrial fluid handling.

If you're ready to:

  • Reduce operational risk
  • Improve product consistency
  • Lower energy costs
  • Eliminate seal failures

Then it’s time to consider the SMART, SUSTAINABLE, and DEPENDABLE choice: Cognito EODD pumps.

Pump specifications may vary by region. Please contact your local sales team for more information.

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