They can run dry for only intermediate amounts of time, allowing for the use of a suction hose for collecting fluids from a tank. They should not be run dry for an extended period of time as oil is required to lubricate the pump head.
Generally used in:
Petrochemicals: Pure or filled bitumen, pitch, diesel oil, crude oil, lube oil etc.
Chemicals: Sodium silicate, acids, plastics, mixed chemicals, isocyanates etc.
Paint and ink.
Resins and adhesives.
Pulp and paper: acid, soap, lye, black liquor, kaolin, lime, latex, sludge etc.
Food: Chocolate, cacao butter, fillers, sugar, vegetable fats and oils, molasses, animal food etc.