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From a Garage Invention to a Global System Solution

75 Years of FLUX Drum Pumps

In 1950, students in Karlsruhe founded Phyag KG and developed the first electrically powered drum pump—a solution to the cumbersome hand pumps commonly used at the time. Their innovation, introduced as “FLUX,” quickly attracted attention at trade shows. At the same time, Ludwig Hahn of PROGRESS Verkauf GmbH was looking for a new industrial product that would meaningfully complement his product line, which had previously focused on household appliances. He immediately recognized the market potential of the invention and acquired the shares in Phyag.

A pioneering spirit that inspires
Product Innovations and Continuous Expansion of the Portfolio

Just three years after the invention of the electric drum pump, an explosion-proof version followed in 1953—a significant step for many industries. The introduction of the FLUX 500 slurry pump, based on the eccentric screw principle, was another milestone. Thanks to this pump, it became possible for the first time to handle even more viscous liquids. This was particularly important in the postwar period, when the demand for a wide variety of chemical raw materials and their further processing rose rapidly. Over the years, variants were developed for a wide range of applications, such as pumps with two-stroke engines for off-grid operation and laboratory pumps for small containers. 

Customer needs also prompted the development of flow meters, initially with analog pointer displays and later, of course, digital ones. At the same time, the range of materials was expanded. The selection was always guided by industry-specific requirements, whether in the chemical, pharmaceutical, food, or surface technology sectors. Materials such as polypropylene, PVDF, aluminum, stainless steel, or Hastelloy C were used to accommodate a wide variety of chemicals. On this basis, drum and container pumps were developed for numerous media—ranging from low-viscosity to highly viscous—and for a wide variety of drums, containers, IBCs, and other vessels.

New pump technologies are being added

New pump technologies such as compressed-air diaphragm pumps, magnetic centrifugal pumps, submersible centrifugal pumps, and—most recently—a new series of peristaltic pumps have been gradually added to the lineup. With the introduction of battery-powered motors—such as the 300 series—FLUX also responded to the trend toward mobile power supply. These products have received numerous design and technology awards in recognition of their innovative strength. Even complex applications, such as the hygienic and ergonomic emptying of highly viscous, non-flowable media from 200-liter drums, were addressed. Drum-emptying systems such as VISCOFLUX lite (Ex) and VISCOFLUX mobile S illustrate the transition from a product manufacturer to a provider of integrated solutions—tailored to each customer’s specific application. Practicality is always the focus: Easy operation, tool-free disassembly, and quick cleaning are now standard features.

From Maulbronn to the World

Production also experienced dynamic growth: The facility was relocated from Stuttgart-Botnang to Maulbronn, where the company’s headquarters are now located. All core components are still manufactured there today—a clear commitment to quality and vertical integration “made in Germany.” At the same time, the company drove forward its international expansion. Subsidiaries in France, the U.S., Benelux, the U.K., India, and Thailand, as well as over 70 sales partners worldwide, make FLUX a globally positioned provider of industrial pump technology today.

Applications That Set the Standard

Thousands of FLUX pumps are in reliable operation every day around the world in the most challenging applications. Thanks to their exceptionally robust and durable construction, they can also be found in extreme environments. For example, at a German research station in Antarctica, where they refuel vehicles, or in an 800-meter-deep experimental mine for final disposal technology. They’re even used in auto racing, where precision and speed are essential. After 75 years, FLUX drum pumps are more popular than ever.

About FLUX

For more than 75 years, the name FLUX has been synonymous with pump technology, ensuring smooth processes even with demanding fluids. It all began in 1950 with the invention of the first electric drum pump. Today, the manufacturer offers an extensive product range that goes far beyond drum pumps. This includes, among other things, MAGSON magnetic centrifugal pumps, filters, mixers, as well as peristaltic pumps, compressed-air diaphragm pumps, submersible centrifugal pumps, and more... Production takes place exclusively in Germany, at the main facility in Maulbronn and at the branch in Cologne. In addition to excellent product quality, safety, and reliability, users appreciate the employees’ outstanding technical expertise and strong customer focus. FLUX pumps are used, for example, in the chemical, pharmaceutical, and cosmetics industries; in mechanical and plant engineering; and in companies specializing in surface technology, wastewater treatment, and the food industry—including in the corresponding hazardous areas. FLUX-GERÄTE GMBH supplies pumps to nearly 100 countries and to approximately 70 international distribution partners.

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