Industrial, domestic, and commercial processes depend on a steady flow of fluids such as fuel to operate smoothly. You need high-pressure pumps to maintain a consistent supply of fluids when conducting your operations. But, before installing a pressure pump, you need to know what it is, the different types available, and which one is suitable for what operations. Choosing the wrong pump results in losses as the pump may not work effectively or fail to work entirely. This article gives an overview of the categories of high-pressure pumps and their applications.
What are High-pressure Pumps?
These pumps enable the discharge of water and other fluids at high pressure. Depending on their operations, a pressure pump can either be a centrifugal pump or a positive displacement pump. Positive displacement pumps are suitable for pumping highly viscous liquids because you can adjust them to ensure the fluid flows at the desired pressure. On the other hand, centrifugal pumps can maintain a constant pressure level throughout their operation. They are suitable for pumping less viscous fluids such as water. A general water supply pump at your home is an example of a centrifugal pump.
Types of Centrifugal Pumps
The following are types of centrifugal pumps and their application;
1. Fire Hydrant Pumps: Also called hydrant boosters or fire pumps. These are pumps that force out water at very high pressure. The pressure ensures the water spreads to distant points. Irrigation and firefighting equipment are examples of applications of these pumps.
2. Submersible Pumps: These are pumps suitable for shifting different fluids such as rainwater and trade wastes to other uses. They are common in different impellers like grinder pumps and contra-blocks.
3. Cantilever Pumps: These pumps use a unique shaft, ensuring the fluid falls within a specific radius. An example of these types of pumps is a parts washer application.
Types of Positive Displacement Pumps
The following are types of positive displacement pumps you should be aware of
1. Diaphragm pumps: These pumps use two diaphragms powered by condensed air. They are convenient for industrial operations where electricity is unreliable, like in mining and chemical industries.
2. Gear pumps: Also known as positive dislocation pumps, push high-velocity liquids by constantly moving in and out of a mesh. They are suitable for operations that involve fuel and grease oil.
3. Tube Pumps: These are pumps used in the food and chemical processing industries. They ensure a steady flow of very thick liquids such as paste.
4. Piston Pumps: These pumps exert high pressure through a piston. They are suitable in activities where there is a need for a consistent supply of fluids at high pressure. Irrigation is a perfect example of where you need piston pumps.