Oberdorfer 170M-A82 Bronze Centrifugal Pump — Quiet, Reliable 24V Circulation for Demanding Applications
The Oberdorfer 170M-A82 is a close-coupled bronze centrifugal pump and motor unit built for continuous low-pressure fluid circulation where reliability and material durability matter most. Running on 24 volts DC, it spins at 3,480 RPM and moves up to 13 GPM through 3/4-inch NPT inlet and outlet ports — all wrapped in rugged, corrosion-resistant bronze that holds up against the fluids and environments that would wear down lesser materials over time. The 1/10 HP TEFC (Totally Enclosed Fan Cooled) motor runs quietly and efficiently, and the passivated 316 stainless steel shaft resists corrosion where it matters most. Whether you're circulating coolant through a heat exchanger, managing engine block temperature control, moving fluid in an HVAC loop, or running livewell and bait tank systems, this pump handles the job with minimal fuss and a long service life.
What makes the 170M-A82 stand out in real-world use is its thoughtful engineering. The single open-vane rotating impeller resists clogging, and because the impeller never contacts other pump components, operation is notably quiet. The centrifugal design means you can fully close off the discharge line without risk of motor overload or line rupture — no relief valve required. The Buna N lip seal with stainless steel spring reinforcement provides dependable shaft sealing, and the compact size of the unit makes it easy to fit into tight installation spaces. Oberdorfer has been manufacturing pumps in Syracuse, New York since the late 1800s, and that long track record of quality shows in every detail of this unit.
Key Features
- Heavy-duty corrosion-resistant bronze pump housing and impeller
- Silent-running 24V DC TEFC (Totally Enclosed Fan Cooled) motor
- Passivated 316 stainless steel motor shaft for superior corrosion resistance
- Single open-vane rotating impeller — anti-clogging design for quiet, efficient operation
- Impeller does not contact other pump parts, reducing wear and noise
- Buna N (Nitrile) lip seal with stainless steel spring reinforcement
- Discharge can be fully throttled without risk of overloading motor or bursting lines — no relief valve needed
- Flow easily controlled via throttling valve on discharge side
- Compact, close-coupled design for easy installation in space-restricted locations
- Maximum system inlet pressure of 15 PSI recommended to protect lip seal
Applications
- Engine block temperature control and coolant circulation
- Radiator and heat exchanger circulation
- Industrial and commercial HVAC fluid loops
- Livewell, baitwell, and bait tank circulation
- Hot and cold water system circulation
- Windscreen and washdown systems
- Central heating coolant recirculation
- Low-pressure chemical and water-solution transfer
- Liquid transfer for viscous fluids up to 2,000 Saybolt Seconds Universal (SSU)
Specifications
- Part Number: 170M-A82
- Pump Type: Close-Coupled Bronze Centrifugal
- Voltage: 24V DC
- Motor Power: 1/10 HP (0.1 HP)
- Motor Speed: 3,480 RPM
- Motor Enclosure: TEFC (Totally Enclosed Fan Cooled)
- Maximum Flow Rate: 13 GPM
- Maximum Pressure: 7 PSI
- Maximum Inlet Pressure: 15 PSI
- Inlet Port Size: 3/4" NPT
- Outlet (Discharge) Port Size: 3/4" NPT
- Pump Housing Material: Bronze
- Impeller Material: Bronze
- Shaft Material: 316 Passivated Stainless Steel
- Seal Type: Buna N (Nitrile) Lip Seal with Stainless Steel Spring
- Maximum Fluid Viscosity: 2,000 SSU
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does the Oberdorfer 170M-A82 require a relief valve in the system?
No. Because this is a centrifugal pump (not a positive displacement pump), it does not require a relief valve. The flow it produces is not positive, which means the discharge line can be completely shut off without overloading the motor or creating a pressure burst risk.
Q: Can this pump handle fluids other than water?
Yes. The 170M-A82 can handle water, water-based solutions, and a broad range of commercial chemicals. It can also move viscous liquids up to a maximum of 2,000 Saybolt Seconds Universal (SSU). It is not intended for flammable fuels or highly aggressive chemicals that attack bronze or Buna N seals.
Q: What is the maximum inlet pressure the pump can handle?
Inlet pressure should not exceed 15 PSI. Higher pressures can push the Buna N lip seal out of its machined housing counterbore, leading to seal failure.
Q: Is this pump self-priming?
No. The 170M-A82 is a centrifugal pump designed for flooded-suction and closed-circuit circulation applications. It is not self-priming and requires liquid to be present at the inlet before operation.
Q: How is the flow rate controlled on this pump?
Flow can be conveniently regulated using a throttling valve on the discharge side of the pump. As system pressure increases, horsepower demand decreases, with maximum horsepower occurring at wide-open discharge.
Q: Can the pump be mounted in any orientation?
The manufacturer does not specify orientation restrictions for this close-coupled unit; the compact design and motor coupling make it adaptable to most installation configurations. Confirm with your specific installation requirements.
Q: What does TEFC mean, and why does it matter for this pump?
TEFC stands for Totally Enclosed Fan Cooled. This motor enclosure style keeps outside air, moisture, and contaminants from entering the motor housing, making it more durable in damp, dusty, or demanding environments compared to open-drip-proof motors.
Q: Is the 170M-A82 the same pump as the 172B-A82?
They are similar but distinct models. Both are 24V DC bronze centrifugal pumps with 3/4" NPT ports, but the 172B-A82 uses a carbon-ceramic mechanical rotary face seal, while the 170M-A82 uses a Buna N lip seal. The right choice depends on your system pressure and sealing requirements.
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