Why High Pressure Process Pumps Are Highly Revered

By Daphne Bowen


A pump is a device that moves fluids by means of mechanical action. High pressure process pumps move the fluid by trapping a given fixed amount and displacing the trapped amount through the discharging pipe. They are more preferred to their counterparts the centrifugal types since their capacity is not affected by the pressure under which they operate. They are also known as constant volume pumps and are divided into three main categories namely the rotary, reciprocating and linear drives. These classifications are usually made according to the mechanism used to transmit the fluid.

Rotary drives are applied when the fluid to be transmitted has a high viscosity. They are not designed to run dry for long periods of time. This means that fluids such as water cannot be moved efficiently by this pump. They can however be used to pump large quantities of air and vapor but for only short periods of time. Usage is common place in machinery where they circulate lube oils through engines and turbines.

Reciprocating drives are more dynamic in that they can transmit both abrasive and viscous fluids. They work through the motion of a piston in a cylinder of fixed capacity. Their dynamism however comes at a cost since they are actually slower compared to the other mechanisms of transmission although it is highly efficient. Common place usage is in circumstances that need to transmit low volumes of the fluid but under high pressures.

Linear drives are simplistic in design but still retain their ability to perform the task required of it. One would only need a rope, a wheel and a piece of PVC piping to construct one. Since these materials are readily available, its use has spread all around the world. It serves as a pump for water from wells and boreholes.

In order for one to experience the full capabilities and performance of positive displacement drives, the installation has to be done properly and in accordance to the stipulated guidelines. Each manufacturer usually provides instructions for proper installation which if followed to the latter will definitely result in a successful installation.

A most basic approach would be to ensure that a solid foundation on which the pump would rest on is built. The best foundation is usually reinforced concrete. The weight will determine the strength of the foundation. The pump and the driver are bolted to the concrete slab via a secured steel base plate. This and a proper application of the user manual is all that is needed for installation.

Factors that determine the choice of the pump can be divided into two; the viscosity of the fluid and the pressure needed. Changes in viscosity can have huge implications on the flow rate and efficiency. These might be slight, huge or even moderate changes.

Changes in pressure are also a major concern and its effects on the rate of flow and efficiency cannot be understated. A pump that maintains its flow rate and efficiency even with significant changes in pressure would therefore be the ideal choice. Pressure pumps give the best value for money due to their ability to well address the viscosity and pressure concerns.




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