Iwaki MD-55RT-220 Magnetic Drive Pump
The Iwaki MD-55RT-220 is a compact, sealless magnetic drive pump built for anyone who needs reliable fluid movement without the headaches of shaft seals or leaks. Constructed from GFRPP polypropylene, this pump pairs a magnetically coupled centrifugal design with a 1/8 HP, 220-volt, single-phase TEFC motor. The magnetic coupling means there's no mechanical seal to wear out or drip over time, which makes this a favorite for anyone tired of replacing seals on traditional pumps.
With 1-inch NPT threaded ports, the MD-55RT-220 is easy to plumb directly into existing piping without the need for barbed hose adapters. It's a genuinely versatile unit — while it shows up often in aquarium and reef sump setups thanks to its quiet operation, it's equally at home in light industrial recirculation, chemical transfer, water treatment, and general process fluid handling where corrosion resistance and low noise both matter.
What people tend to appreciate most about this pump is how little it demands of them. It runs quietly, resists a wide range of chemicals thanks to its polypropylene construction, and its magnetic drive design keeps maintenance simple since there are fewer wear parts to worry about. For anyone looking for a dependable, leak-free pump that isn't fussy about installation, the MD-55RT-220 is a solid, no-drama choice.
Key Features
- Sealless magnetic drive design — no mechanical shaft seal to leak or wear out
- GFRPP polypropylene wetted construction for broad chemical resistance
- TEFC (totally enclosed, fan-cooled) 220V single-phase motor
- Quiet, low-vibration operation
- Compact footprint for tight installation spaces
- Low-maintenance design with fewer wear components
Applications
- Aquarium and reef sump circulation
- Chemical transfer and process fluid handling
- Water treatment and filtration systems
- Industrial recirculation loops
- General liquid transfer where corrosion resistance is required
- Laboratory and light commercial fluid systems
Specifications
- Model: Iwaki MD-55RT-220
- Pump Type: Magnetic drive (mag drive) centrifugal pump
- Construction Material: GFRPP polypropylene
- Motor Output: 1/8 HP
- Voltage: 220V AC
- Phase: Single phase
- Motor Type: TEFC (Totally Enclosed Fan Cooled)
- Port Size: 1" NPT threaded (inlet and outlet)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can the Iwaki MD-55RT-220 run dry without damage?
No, this pump should never be run dry. Like all magnetic drive pumps, it relies on the pumped liquid to lubricate and cool the internal bearings, so operating it without fluid can cause premature wear or failure.
Q: Is the MD-55RT-220 suitable for saltwater or corrosive chemicals?
Yes, its GFRPP polypropylene construction offers strong resistance to a wide range of chemicals and saltwater, which is why it's commonly used in both industrial process applications and aquatic environments.
Q: Does this pump require priming before startup?
Yes, the pump housing needs to be filled with liquid before it's started. Running it before priming can damage the magnetic coupling and internal components.
Q: What's the difference between the MD-55RT-220 and other MD-55 variants?
The "T" designation indicates NPT threaded ports rather than hose barb connections, and the "220" reflects the 220-volt motor configuration, which differs from the 115V or Japanese-motor variants in the same MD-55 family.
Q: Can this pump be used for continuous, 24/7 operation?
Yes, the MD-55RT-220 is designed for continuous duty in appropriate applications, making it suitable for ongoing recirculation or transfer tasks as long as it stays primed and within its rated pressure and flow limits.
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