Monday, September 14, 2015

Applications Of High Pressure Process Pumps

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 used in situations where the liquid that is being moved is thick or in scientific terms possesses a high level of viscosity. They cannot therefore be operated dry for extended durations. This would imply that abrasive fluids such as water will not be transmitted with the required efficiency. The only exception is air and vapor but this also has to be done under strict time constraints. Circulation of lubricant oils through turbines and engines is a common application of the rotary pumps.

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.

The most popular of the three has to definitely be the linear pump. Two factors that contribute to this is the ability to construct it with local materials such as a rope, PVC piping and a wheel. The other is ease of installation and usage. It is widely used as a pump for 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.

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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