Fluid Transfer Pumps
Implicated in the transfer of fluids ranging from oils, water, solvents, blood, fuel, coolant, syrup and acids to hazardous or even toxic materials; these pumps are essential to modern manufacturing. Many different types of fluid transfer pumps are widely available to accommodate these needs, but all may be categorized as either dynamic or positive displacement pumps. Dynamic pumps, also known as kinetic, energize the fluid in order to increase the velocity to an amount greater than the outlet port can withstand, thereby transferring the material as it is exhausted. Centrifugal and propeller pumps belong to this category. Bellows pumps, peristaltic pumps and other metering pumps on the other hand are positive displacement pumps. Mechanisms in this grouping utilize repeated compression and decompression cycles to move precise amounts of liquid from areas of high pressure to low pressure. The type of pump should be carefully considered with regards for industry specifications. Fluid transfer engineers and pump manufacturers can provide helpful insight into the capabilities of a fluid transfer pump.
Although dynamic and positive displacement are popular categorizations used to designate fluid transfer pumps, several other factors should be considered. The material construction of a pump is a top priority as it must be compatible with the chemical composition of the fluids it will encounter. Highly corrosive liquids, for example, should be handled by anti-corrosive materials such as stainless steel. Plastics may be used in lighter applications. The pump design also plays a significant role as it will determine what components come into contact with the fluid. Peristaltic pumps, for example, require only that the elastomeric tubing ever touch the fluids. Size and orientation should also be taken into account as they will have a direct impact on the capabilities of a pump. Power sources such as AC voltage, DC voltage, pneumatic or hydraulic systems, natural gas, gasoline, steam, water, solar power or even manual systems will also provide vastly different pumping capacities. No matter the design or actuating device, a comparison of flow rates, maximum pressure and discharge levels, operating temperatures, stroke and efficiency will help match pumping needs with pump capabilities. Additional specifications may apply more directly to the intended industrial use of a fluid transfer pump. Again, if uncertainty persists, pumping and fluid transfer professionals should be consulted to ensure optimal fluid transfer.
