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.

When the fluid being moved usually has a generally high viscosity, the rotary pumps are more preferred. There particulate method of operation calls for constant lubrication. Highly abrasive fluids such as water will not be moved efficiently with air and vapor being the only exceptions. This should however be done with moderation making sure that they are not moved for long periods of time. Rotary drives are more commonly used in machinery where it transmits the lubricating fluid through the engines and turbines.

Reciprocating drives on the other hand are considered more versatile due to their ability to move both viscous and abrasive fluids. Operation is by means of the back and forth action of a plunger usually within a fixed volume. They are generally slower than the other types but they however provide higher efficiency levels. Usage is highly based on situations that require high levels of strain but low volumes of the fluid.

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.

Deriving the full potential of the constant volume drives can only be achieved when the installation is done through an elaborate means of predetermined steps. These steps are usually clearly outlined in the user manual. Every manufacturer goes out of their way to ensure proper installation is done as long as the instructions are followed.

Constructing a solid foundation is however intuitive and can be done prior to the purchase. A good foundation is based on reinforced concrete. Heavier units usually require stronger foundations. Once the unit is brought it is fitted on a steel base plate that has been fastened to the concrete slab. All that is required now is a step by step application of the user manual to complete installation.

When choosing a suitable pump, two factors have to be put into consideration. These are viscosity of the fluid and the pressure required. Variations in viscosity such as highly, slightly or even modest viscosity can have dramatically huge effects on the rate of flow and efficiency of the pump.

Fluctuations in pressure levels also greatly affect the efficiency and rate of flow. The best choice therefore would be one that keeps a constant rate of flow whilst maintaining efficiency even with ever changing pressure levels. Pressure pumps are therefore ideal due to their ability to address these two concerns.




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