Various Types Of Pumps - Engineering Knowledge

Various Types Of Pumps

What is Pump?

• A pump is a device that transfers fluids, such as liquids and gases, from one point to another. Pumps come in different shapes and sizes, and each type serves a particular purpose.

• Common types of pumps include dynamic pumps and positive displacement pumps. Dynamic pumps rely on kinetic energy to move fluids, while positive displacement pumps use mechanical components to trap and force fluids through the system.

1). Dynamic Pumps:

• Dynamic pumps operate by converting kinetic energy into pressure to move fluids, and they are widely used for their efficiency and ability to handle large volumes of fluids.

1). Centrifugal Pumps

2). Submersible pumps

3). Fire hydrant pumps

4). Axial and mixed flow pumps

5). Regenerative and peripheral pumps

a). Centrifugal Pumps:

• Centrifugal pumps are the most common type of dynamic pump, and they are used in a variety of industries, including oil and gas, water treatment, and HVAC systems. These pumps use a spinning impeller to create a flow of fluid which is then converted into pressure.

• Centrifugal pumps are known for their high flow rates and efficient energy usage, making them an ideal choice for applications that require the movement of large volumes of fluids. Typical centrifugal pump types include the following:

Centrifugal Pump Principles:

• The centrifugal pump works by converting mechanical energy into kinetic energy, thereby increasing the fluid's velocity, which is then converted into pressure. The pump's impeller rotates at high speeds, generating a centrifugal force that drives the fluid towards the outer edges of the impeller. From there, the fluid is propelled outwards into the discharge pipe.

Types of Centrifugal Pumps:

Pump Type	Description	Applications
Single-stage pumps	Have a single impeller, suitable for low-pressure applications	Water circulation, irrigation, drainage
Multi-stage pumps	Have multiple impellers, suitable for high-pressure applications	Boiler feed, water treatment, reverse osmosis
Self-priming pumps	Can prime themselves without external assistance	Wastewater treatment, swimming pool circulation, irrigation
Vertical pumps	Have a vertical shaft, suitable for deep well applications	Deep well water extraction, cooling towers, condensate pumps
Submersible pumps	Can operate underwater, suitable for applications such as drainage and sewage pumping	Wastewater treatment, deep well water extraction, irrigation

b). Submersible Pumps:

• Submersible pumps are designed to operate underwater and, therefore, find various applications in deep well water extraction, drainage, and sewage pumping systems. They are highly efficient, with a pump motor placed inside a sealed container and submerged into the fluid. The pump's unique design requires no suction lift limitations, allowing it to push fluids to higher elevations. Submersible pumps are highly versatile and operate quietly, making them ideal for residential, commercial, and industrial use.

c). Fire Hydrant Pumps:

• Fire hydrant systems rely on specialized pumps to supply water for firefighting purposes. These pumps are often located in pump rooms near the hydrants and connected to the public water supply or a dedicated water source, like a tank. During an emergency, the pump activates, increasing the water pressure to the corresponding hydrant. Fire hydrant systems are crucial for fire safety and require regular maintenance to ensure proper functionality.

d). Axial Flow and Mixed Flow Pumps:

• Axial flow and mixed flow pumps are two other types of dynamic pumps that are often used for specific purposes. Axial flow pumps move fluid parallel to the impeller axis, while mixed flow pumps move fluid both radially and axially.

• Axial flow pumps are commonly used for applications that require a high flow rate, such as in irrigation and flood control. Mixed flow pumps, on the other hand, are used in applications that require both high flow rates and high head, such as in cooling water systems and irrigation.

e). Regenerative and Peripheral Pumps:

• Regenerative and peripheral pumps are two types of dynamic pumps that are known for their compact size and efficiency. Regenerative pumps use a rotating impeller to create a vortex that increases fluid pressure, while peripheral pumps use a radial impeller to push fluid outwards.

• Regenerative pumps are commonly used in low flow-rate applications, such as in vending machines or laboratories. Peripheral pumps are often used in domestic and commercial applications, such as in small water systems or water features.

"Dynamic pumps are a reliable and efficient choice for a wide range of applications, and understanding their different types can help you choose the right pump for your specific needs."

2). Positive displacement pumps:

• positive displacement pumps, which operate by forcing fluids through a system of mechanical components. These types of pumps are widely used in many industries due to their constant flow rate, regardless of changes in pressure.

1). Diaphragm pumps

2). Gear pumps

3). Peristaltic pumps

4). Lobe pumps

5). Piston pumps

Type of positive displacement pump	Description	Applications
Diaphragm pumps	The pumping motion of these pumps is produced by a flexible diaphragm that oscillates back and forth. They are ideal for pumping fluids with high solids content and abrasive materials.	frequently employed in sectors including chemical processing, mining, and wastewater treatment.
Gear pumps	Gear pumps use intermeshing gears to create flow. They are compact and efficient and can handle a wide range of viscosities.	Used in applications such as fuel transfer, hydraulic power, and lubrication systems.
Peristaltic pumps	These pumps use a series of rollers to compress a flexible tube, creating a pumping action. They are ideal for handling delicate fluids and can pump fluids with high solids content and abrasive materials.	Commonly used in the medical field, laboratory testing, and food processing.
Lobe pumps	These pumps use two intermeshing lobes to create flow. They are ideal for handling shear-sensitive fluids and can handle high viscosities.	Commonly used in the food processing industry, such as for pumping chocolate, butter, and batter.
Piston pumps	These pumps use a reciprocating piston to create flow. They are efficient and can handle high pressures.	utilized in processes like water purification, chemical processing, and oil and gas extraction.