ACTIVITY NO.

3
Study of Pump Units - Positive and Non-Positive Displacement

I. INTRODUCTION:
Positive displacement pumps add energy to a fluid by applying force to the liquid with a
mechanical device such as a piston or plunger. A positive displacement pump decreases the
volume containing the liquid until the resulting liquid pressure equals the pressure in the discharge
system. That is, the liquid is compressed mechanically, causing a direct rise in potential energy.
Most positive displacement pumps are reciprocating pumps in which linear motion of a piston or
plunger in a cylinder causes the displacement. In rotary pumps, another common positive
displacement pump, a circular motion causes the displacement. There are several manufacturers
of positive displacement pumps which are often found in high-pressure services. 1

Positive displacement pumps, which lift a given volume for each cycle of operation, can be divided
into two main classes, reciprocating and rotary. Reciprocating pumps include piston, plunger, and
diaphragm types; rotary pumps include gear, lobe, screw, vane, and cam pumps. The plunger
pump is the oldest type in common use. Piston and plunger pumps consist of a cylinder in which a
piston or plunger moves back and forth. In plunger pumps the plunger moves through a stationary
packed seal and is pushed into the fluid, while in piston pumps the packed seal is carried on the
piston that pushes the fluid out of the cylinder. As the piston moves outward, the volume available
in the cylinder increases, and fluid enters through the one-way inlet valve. As the piston moves
inward, the volume available in the cylinder decreases, the pressure of the fluid increases, and the
fluid is forced out through the outlet valve. The pumping rate varies from zero at the point at
which the piston changes direction to a maximum when the piston is approximately halfway
through its stroke. The variation in pumping rate can be reduced by using both sides of the piston
to pump fluid. Pumps of this type are called double acting. Fluctuations in pumping rate can be
further reduced by using more than one cylinder. Overall pumping rates of piston pumps may be
varied by changing either the reciprocating speed of the piston rod or the stroke length of the
piston. The piston may be driven directly by steam, compressed air, or hydraulic oil or through a
mechanical linkage or cam that transforms the rotary motion of a drive wheel to a reciprocating
motion of the piston rod.2

The positive displacement pump operates by alternating of filling a cavity and then displacing a
given volume of liquid. The positive displacement pump delivers a constant volume of liquid for
each cycle against varying discharge pressure or head. Positive Displacement Pumps has an
expanding cavity on the suction side and a decreasing cavity on the discharge side. Liquid flows
into the pumps as the cavity on the suction side expands and the liquid flows out of the discharge
as the cavity collapses. The volume is constant given each cycle of operation. It will produce the
same flow at a given speed (RPM) no matter the discharge pressure. A Positive Displacement
Pump must not be operated against a closed valve on the discharge side of the pump because it
has no shut-off head like Centrifugal Pumps.

1
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/engineering/positive-displacement-pumps
2
https://www.britannica.com/technology/pump/Positive-displacement-pumps
A Centrifugal pump is a mechanical machine that pumps the fluids by converting the mechanical
power (rotational energy) into the pressure energy of the fluid flow. This mechanical power
generally supplies by the electric motor or engine. A centrifugal pump uses a centrifugal force to
pump the fluids. Therefore, it is known as a centrifugal pump. Common uses include water,
sewage, agriculture, petroleum, and petrochemical pumping. Centrifugal pumps are often chosen
for their high flow rate capabilities, abrasive solution compatibility, mixing potential, as well as
their relatively simple engineering.[2] A centrifugal fan is commonly used to implement an air
handling unit or vacuum cleaner. The reverse function of the centrifugal pump is a water turbine
converting potential energy of water pressure into mechanical rotational energy. 3

A centrifugal pump which is also called non-positive displacement pump converts the input
power to kinetic energy in the liquid by accelerating the liquid by a revolving device - an impeller.
The most common type is the volute pump. Fluid enters the pump through the eye of the impeller
which rotates at high speed. The fluid is accelerated radially outward from the pump chasing. A
vacuum is created at the impellers eye that continuously draws more fluid into the pump. The
energy created by the pump is kinetic energy according the Bernoulli Equation. The energy
transferred to the liquid corresponds to the velocity at the edge or vane tip of the impeller. The
faster the impeller revolves or the bigger the impeller is, the higher will the velocity of the liquid
energy transferred to the liquid be.

II. OBJECTIVES:
1. To identify the basic operation of a pump unit.
2. To determine the classification and types of a pump unit.
3. To determine the basic operation, application and uses of a pump unit.
4. To determine what are the factor in selecting a pump unit.
5. To develop professional work ethics including precision, neatness, safety
and ability to follow instruction.

III. MATERIALS/EQUIPMENT:

3
https://mechanicalboost.com/centrifugal-pump-an-overview/

2
 4

SINGLE ACTING RECIPROCATING PUMP

DOUBLE ACTING SINGLE ACTING RECIPROCATING PUMP

4
https://blogmech.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/a5d8c-01-single-acting-reciprocating-pump-type-of-reciprocating-
pumps.jpg
5
https://i.makeagif.com/media/3-01-2017/HaB2kD.gif

3
 6

RECIPROCATING PUMP FITTED WITH AIR VESSEL AT BOTH SUCTION AND

DELIVERY SIDE

The Main Parts of Reciprocating Pump are:

6
https://www.mechanicalbooster.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/reciprocating-pump-main-parts-1.png

4
1. CYLINDER- A hollow cylinder made of steel alloy or cast iron. Arrangement of
piston and piston rod is inside this cylinder. Suction and release of liquid is takes
place in this so, both suction and delivery pipes along with valves are connected
to this cylinder.

2. SUCTION PIPE- Suction valve is non-return valve which means only one
directional flow is possible in this type of valve. This is placed between suction
pipe inlet and cylinder. During suction of liquid, it is opened and during
discharge it is closed. It connects the source of water and cylinder; the water is
sucked.

3. DELIVERY PIPE- Delivery pipe connects cylinder of pump to the outlet source.
The liquid is delivered to desired outlet location through this pipe. Water sucked
by pump is discharged into delivery pipe.

4. SUCTION VALVE- It is a non-return valve which means it can take the fluid
from the suction pipe and send it to the cylinder but cannot reverse the water
back to it. In the sense, the flow is unidirectional. This valve opens only during
the suction of fluid and closes when there is a discharge of fluid to outside. It
adjusts the flow from the suction pipe into delivery pipe.

5. DELIVERY VALVE- Delivery valve also non-return valve placed between

cylinder and delivery pipe outlet. It is in closed position during suction and in
opened position during discharging of liquid. It admits the flow from the cylinder
in to delivery pipe.

6. AIR VESSEL- Air vessels are connected to both suction and delivery pipes to
eliminate the frictional head and to give uniform discharge rate. It is a cast iron
closed chamber having an opening at its pass through which the water flows into
vessel.

IV. Classification of Displacement Pump

The positive displacement pump can be classified as: 

1. Reciprocating pumps – Reciprocating pump is a positive displacement pump

where certain volume of liquid is collected in enclosed volume and is discharged
using pressure to the required application. Reciprocating pumps are more
suitable for low volumes of flow at high pressures. A reciprocating pump is a
positive displacement plunger pump. It is often used where relatively small
quantity of liquid is to be handled and where delivery pressure is quite large.

1.1 Piston pump- A piston pump can be based on a single piston or, more
likely, multiple parallel pistons.   The pistons are reciprocated using cams or
crankshafts.   The stroke is generally adjustable.  This type of pump can

5
 deliver heads of up to 1000 bar.   The largest sizes of piston pumps can deliver
flows of 40m3 /hr. In practice these pumps are more likely to be used for
metering low flow rate fluids at more modest pressures in laboratories and
chemical process plants.   Piston pumps are not generally suitable for
transferring toxic or explosive media.

1.2 Plunger pump- Plunger pumps comprise of a cylinder with a reciprocating

plunger in it. In the head of the cylinder the suction and discharge valves are
mounted. In the suction stroke the plunger retracts and the suction valves
opens causing suction of fluid into the cylinder. In the forward stroke the
plunger pushes the liquid out the discharge valve. With only one cylinder the
fluid flow varies between maximum flow when the plunger moves through the
middle positions, and zero flow when the plunger is in the end positions. A lot
of energy is wasted when the fluid is accelerated in the piping system.
Vibration and "water hammers" may be a serious problem. In general, the
problems are compensated by using two or more cylinders not working in
phase with each other.

1.3 Diaphragm pump- In diaphragm pumps the plunger pressurizes

hydraulic oil which is used to flex a diaphragm in the pumping cylinder.
Diaphragm valves are used to pump hazardous and toxic fluids.  

2. Power pumps- Hydraulic ram water pumps use downhill water pressure to
pump water much higher than it started, with no other power needed. A 20ft fall
is enough to push water 150 feet above the source or more. Or as little as a 2ft
fall between the water source and the pump at a flow rate of 1 to 3 gallons per
minute is enough to pump water 20ft higher than the source -- as much as 4,000
gallons a day

3. Steam pumps - The type of steam pump most commonly used for house
pumps is a single direct-acting pump.

4. Rotary pumps - Positive displacement rotary pumps are pumps that move
fluid using the principles of rotation. The vacuum created by the rotation of the
pump captures and draws in the liquid. Rotary pumps are very efficient because
they naturally remove air from the lines, eliminating the need to bleed the air
from the lines manually. Positive displacement rotary pumps also have their
weaknesses. Because of the nature of the pump, the clearance between the
rotating pump and the outer edge must be very close, requiring that the pumps
rotate at a slow, steady speed. If rotary pumps are operated at high speeds, the
fluids will cause erosion, much as ocean waves polish stones or erode rock into
sand. Rotary pumps that experience such erosion eventually show signs of
enlarged clearances, which allow liquid to slip through and detract from the
efficiency of the pump.

6
4.1 Rotary lobe pump- Lobe pumps are used in a variety of industries
including, pulp and paper, chemical, food, beverage, pharmaceutical, and
biotechnology.  They are popular in these diverse industries because they offer
superb sanitary qualities, high efficiency, reliability, corrosion resistance, and
good clean-in-place and sterilize-in-place (CIP/SIP) characteristics. These
pumps offer a variety of lobe options including single, bi-wing, tri-lobe (shown),
and multi-lobe.  Rotary lobe pumps are non-contacting and have large
pumping chambers, allowing them to handle solids such as cherries or olives
without damage.  They are also used to handle slurries, pastes, and a wide
variety of other liquids.  If wetted, they offer self-priming performance.  A
gentle pumping action minimizes product degradation.  They also offer
reversible flows and can operate dry for long periods of time.  Flow is relatively
independent of changes in process pressure, so output is constant and
continuous.

4.2 Progressing cavity pump - A progressive cavity pump is a type of Positive

Displacement Pump and is also known as a progressing cavity pump,
eccentric screw pump or even just cavity pump. It transfers fluid by means of
the progress, through the pump, of a sequence of small, fixed shape, discrete
cavities, as its rotor is turned. This leads to the volumetric flow rate being
proportional to the rotation rate (bidirectionally) and to low levels of shearing
being applied to the pumped fluid. Hence these pumps have application in
fluid metering and pumping of viscous or shear sensitive materials. The
cavities taper down toward their ends and overlap with their neighbors, so
that, in general, no flow pulsing is caused by the arrival of cavities at the
outlet, other than that caused by compression of the fluid or pump
components.

4.3 Rotary gear pump - A gear pump uses the meshing of gears to pump fluid
by displacement. They are one of the most common types of pumps for
hydraulic fluid power applications. Gear pumps are also widely used in
chemical installations to pump fluid with a certain viscosity. There are two
main variations; external gear pumps which use two externals spur gears, and
internal gear pumps which use an external and an internal spur gear. Gear
pumps are positive displacement (or fixed displacement), meaning they pump a
constant amount of fluid for each revolution. Some gear pumps are designed
to function as either a motor or a pump.

4.4 Screw pump - Screw pumps are rotary, positive displacement pumps that
can have one or more screws to transfer high or low viscosity fluids along an
axis.  A classic example of screw pumps is the Archimedes screw pump that is
still used in irrigation and agricultural applications. Although progressive
cavity pumps can be referred to as a single screw pump, typically screw
pumps have two or more intermeshing screws rotating axially clockwise or
counterclockwise.  Each screw thread is matched to carry a specific volume of

7
fluid.  Like gear pumps, screw pumps may include a stationary screw with a
rotating screw or screws.  Fluid is transferred through successive contact
between the housing and the screw flights from one thread to the next. 
Geometries can vary.  Screw pumps provide a specific volume with each cycle
and can be dependable in metering applications.  The geometries of the single
or multiple screws and the drive speed will affect the pumping action
required.  The capacity of screw pumps can be calculated based on the
dimensions of the pump, the dimensions of the surface of the screws, and the
rotational speed of the rotor since a specific volume is transferred with each
revolution.  In applications where multiple rotors are used, the load is divided
between a number of rotating screws.  The casing acts as the stator when two
or more rotors are used.  Based upon the needs of the application, timed or
untimed rotors may be chosen. Untimed rotors are simpler in design. 

4.5 Vane pump - A rotary vane pump is a positive-displacement pump that

consists of vanes mounted to a rotor that rotates inside of a cavity. In some
cases, these vanes can be variable length and/or tensioned to maintain
contact with the walls as the pump rotates. It was invented by Charles C.
Barnes of Sackville, New Brunswick who patented it on June 16, 1874. The
simplest vane pump is a circular rotor rotating inside of a larger circular
cavity. The centers of these two circles are offset, causing eccentricity. Vanes
are allowed to slide into and out of the rotor and seal on all edges, creating
vane chambers that do the pumping work. On the intake side of the pump, the
vane chambers are increasing in volume. These increasing volume vane
chambers are filled with fluid forced in by the inlet pressure. Often this inlet
pressure is nothing more than pressure from the atmosphere. On the
discharge side of the pump, the vane chambers are decreasing in volume,
forcing fluid out of the pump. The action of the vane drives out the same
volume of fluid with each rotation. Multistage rotary vane vacuum pumps can
attain pressures as low as 10−3 mbar (0.1 Pa).

4.6 Regenerative (peripheral) pump - The regenerative pump produces large

head at comparatively small flows.    The design of the pump includes for a
special impeller with a large number of radial blades.   As the fluid is
discharge from one blade it is transferred to the root of the next blade and
given additional energy.   The fluid heads developed in this type of pump can
be very high and the pump should not be used without a close coupled relief
valve in the system. In a regenerative pump, liquid enters and exits the pump
during several revolutions of the impeller.   The velocity and pressure increase
of the liquid are therefore gradual compared to the centrifugal pump.   Liquid
entering the pump near its vapor pressure is less likely to experience the
pressure change that can cause cavitation due to the smaller pressure
gradient.   Therefore, regenerative pumps, typically, require lower net positive
suction heads than centrifugal pumps. This pump is generally made from
special materials to combat the corrosive conditions resulting from the high

8
 degree of turbulence experienced within the casing.   The figure below shows
in outline the operating principles of the peripheral pump.

Basic Pump Operation:

It is composed of a piston which is a one-way valve sealed inside a cylinder
equipped with two, one-way valves. The one-way valve on top allows air to enter
the cylinder when the piston is moved down by the attached rod. The piston seals
against the cylinder acting as a one-way valve and presses down on the air below
it. This downward movement causes two things to happen: the piston is forced
down by the attached rod, and air is forced out of the bottom of the pump under
pressure. At the same time, air rushes into the top part of the pump to fill the
area of lower pressure created by increased volume. When this happens, both
one-way valves are open allowing air to move.

When the rod is pulled up both one-way valves close, effectively sealing the
cylinder off from its surroundings. As the piston is pulled up, the portion of air in
the cylinder above the piston is squeezed into a smaller volume and is
pressurized. At the same time, the portion of the cylinder below the piston
increases in volume effectively decreasing the pressure. The air is forced from the
high-pressure upper portion to the lower pressure section of the cylinder below,
past the one-way valve piston.7

Application of Pumps

Pumps are used for many different applications. Understanding which pump type
you need for your application is very important. To help you out we have
developed the Guide to Pumps Types. This guide will help you better understand
the advantages and specifications for each pump type. In addition, we have
developed some detailed descriptions for some of the most popular pump
applications. Click on any of the following pump application links to read the
details.
Pumps are used throughout society for a variety of purposes. Early applications
include the use of the windmill or watermill to pump water. Today, the pump is
used for irrigation, water supply, gasoline supply, air conditioning systems,
refrigeration (usually called a compressor), chemical movement, sewage
movement, flood control, marine services, etc.
Because of the wide variety of applications, pumps have a plethora of shapes and
sizes: from very large to very small, from handling gas to handling liquid, from
high pressure to low pressure, and from high volume to low volume.

Uses of Pump Units:

7
https://study.com/academy/lesson/how-pumps-work-operation-performance.html

9
Mechanical pumps serve in a wide range of applications such as pumping water
from wells, aquarium filtering, pond filtering and aeration, in the car industry for
water-cooling and fuel injection, in the energy industry for pumping oil and
natural gas or for operating cooling towers and other components of heating,
ventilation and air conditioning systems. In the medical industry, pumps are
used for biochemical processes in developing and manufacturing medicine, and
as artificial replacements for body parts, in particular the artificial heart and
penile prosthesis. When a casing contains only one revolving impeller, it is called
a single-stage pump. When a casing contains two or more revolving impellers, it
is called a double- or multi-stage pump.8

Factor for Selecting a Pump Units:

1. Process Liquid Properties
What type of liquid is the pump intended for? Below are process liquid properties
that must be considered before selecting a pump:
Liquid viscosity
Temperature
Specific gravity
Vapor pressure
Solids present & concentration
Shear sensitive
Abrasive or Non-abrasive

2. Materials of Construction
What materials of construction are compatible with the process liquid or any
other liquids the pump might come into contact with? Chemical compatibility
charts are available to help you identify the most appropriate materials of
construction for the pump.

3. Is the Pump Critical to Plant Operation?

In critical applications, where downtime is NOT an option, more expensive, heavy-
duty pumps with special features can be chosen. If pumps can be removed from
service for maintenance, less expensive options could be considered.

4. Pump Inlet Conditions

You don’t want to starve a pump. System Net Positive Suction Head (NPSH)
available is calculated by knowing pump inlet pressure and liquid vapor pressure.
Always make sure NPSHA exceeds pump Net Positive Suction Head (NPSH)
required.

5. Pump Environment

8
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pump

10
If your pump will be outside, special construction or installation considerations
may need to be made for freezing temperatures. If the environment is hazardous,
contains explosive vapors or dust, special motor features will be required. These
are just a few examples of environmental conditions to consider.

6. Power Source Availability

The most common power source in the United States is 115-230 Volts/60
Hertz/1-phase or 230-460 Volts, 60 Hertz/3-phase. Special motors can be
specified for operation outside of the United States or by using DC batteries.
Compressed air or pressurized hydraulic oil can also be used for power.

7. Flow Rate and Pressure

Your total volume and knowing how much time you have to move the fluid will
determine flow rate. Pump differential pressure can be calculated by knowing
pipe size (length & fittings), static lifts, and system equipment (filters, valves, etc.)
friction losses.

Professional Work Ethics including Precision, Neatness, Safety and Ability to

Follow Instruction.

A person's work ethic is a representation of his character. A strong work ethic

suggests that the person places a high value on doing a good job, as well as
respecting others and functioning with integrity. Professionalism is a component
of the concept of work ethic, which describes how a person comes to work and
conducts himself on the job. There are several ways a person can exemplify
professionalism on the job.

Neatness
Maintaining cleanliness in the workplace not only creates a healthier environment
for employees but also tends to help companies become more efficient and
productive. Well-being: Providing a clean work environment helps in maintaining
the well-being of employees.

Safety
Workplace safety refers to the working environment at a company and
encompasses all factors that impact the safety, health, and well-being of
employees. This can include environmental hazards, unsafe working conditions
or processes, drug and alcohol abuse, and workplace violence. Workplace safety
is monitored at the national level by the Occupational Safety and Health
Administration (OSHA).

Be Timely and Punctual

Being on time is one of the most fundamental qualities of professionalism. A
professional person comes to work before his shift, settles in and is ready to work

11
for the duration. He is punctual to appointments with clients and meetings with
staff and management. His work is completed on time and he meets all deadlines
given to him.

Taking Responsibility and Being Accountable

Another professional quality is being accountable for your actions. Someone with
a high degree of professionalism takes responsibility for his assignments, his
actions and any problems that arise resulting from his work. If a problem
happens where a client didn't get the product on time because the team member
forgot to transmit it to the operations center, the professional person will take
responsibility and take action to resolve the issue. There is no passing the buck
with a professional employee.

Being Structured and Well-Organized

A professional employee is well-organized. This helps him do his job efficiently
and effectively. His desk is in order with only the necessary files neatly positioned
for him to work on. His desk has files for forms, brochures and supplies he needs
to do his job properly. This prevents him from needing to run around to look for
staples while in the middle of a presentation.

Having Professional Appearance and Good Hygiene

The employee who comes to work with his clothes pressed, shirt tucked in and
matching socks has taken the time to ensure his appearance meets the standards
for his job. His clothes are clean, his hair is combed and he has made sure to
brush his teeth and use deodorant. He'll use mints after lunch or brush his teeth
again. He wants to make sure his first impression in any situation is a positive
one. People have more trust in someone who has taken the time to ensure a
professional appearance.

Being Consistent and Professional

When someone has a strong work ethic, they are diligent in making sure work
gets done and is done properly. This means that work is consistently done well
and efficiently executed. Business leaders want this level of professionalism in all
employees because errors and delays cost money and create other problems.

Having Humility and Kindness

A professional employee is confident but doesn't walk around the office arrogantly
touting his accomplishments. He is humble and kind, and will offer to help
others. He is a team player who understands his contribution is one part of a
bigger equation. As such, he works with others to make sure that everyone is
achieving everything they can.

12
V. QUESTION /PROBLEM:

1. How does the basic operation of a lift pump differ from that of a force
pump?

The lift pump operates on upstroke of the plunger, the lower valve opens,
the upper valve (situated on or in the plunger itself) is closed, and the low
air pressure produced in the barrel allows atmospheric pressure on the
surface of the water source, down below, to make the water move up the
downpipe and eventually fill the barrel below the plunger. On the
downstroke, the lower valve closes, the upper one opens, and water is
forced into the barrel above the upper valve. On the next upstroke, the
water above the plunger is forced out of the spout, located at the top of the
barrel, at the same time as the volume below the barrel fills up with water
again. However, for Force Pump, it operates on the upstroke of the plunger,
the outlet or delivery valve is closed and the inlet valve opens. The low air
pressure produced in the barrel causes the water below to move up the
downpipe and eventually fill the barrel. On the downstroke, the inlet valve
closes, the outlet valve opens, and the water is forced out via the outlet
pipe, which is located at the bottom of the barrel. Water is only expelled on
the downstroke, and in order to even out the supply to some extent these
pumps, in particular, are often fitted with an air vessel.

2. What is the chief difference in working cycles of the single acting force
pump and the double acting force pump?

The main difference between single and double action cylinders is the
number of ports. The single port allows hydraulic fluid to flow into the
cylinder in one direction. In contrast, the fluid entering a double acting
hydraulic cylinder can both enter through one port and exit out the
opposite one.
Single-acting reciprocating pump consists of a piston of which only one side
engages the fluid being displaced. However, Double-acting reciprocating
pump engage with both sides of the piston, each stroke of the piston carries
out both suction and expulsion at the same time.

3. What type of industrial application use for reciprocating piston

pumps?

13
 A wide range of industries uses reciprocating pumps in diverse
applications. Incorporating reciprocating pumps results in repeatable and
precise mechanical operations. Industries that commonly use reciprocating
pumps include:

- Oil and gas: Oil and gas industry applications include disposal, offshore oil,
production, injection, feed, charge, steam generators, mainline, and field
gathering.
- Chemical processing: Raw natural gas liquids (NGLs) derived from fracking
need to undergo multi-stage processing in order to convert into chemical
products such as PVC. Chemical processors frequently use reciprocating
pumps for rigorous processing operations.
- Food processing: Reciprocating pumps in the food industry allow for the
movement of ingredients from one vat to another, the transportation of
liquids of various viscosities, and the delivery of water for food safety and
sanitation.
- Mining: The safe and efficient transportation of minerals from mines to
processing locations is a key procedure of successful mining operations.
Slurry pumps are one critical application in which reciprocating pumps
play a large role.
- Paper and pulp manufacturing: Mechanical and chemical pulping
processes both use reciprocating pumps that are able to withstand intense
operating conditions.
- Soap manufacturing: It takes a lot of processing to transform raw soaps,
liquids, and powders into products ready for consumer purchase.
Reciprocating pumps are a key component in many of these manufacturing
and refining processes.
- Wastewater treatment: Wastewater treatment plants are responsible for
contaminant removal, purification processing, and the proper treatment of
waste effluent. Reliable and durable reciprocating pumps are extremely
important to maintain the effectiveness of a treatment plant’s operations.

4. What is meant by displacement and is it expressed?

In displacement pumps, the pumped fluid is delivered through solid

volumes and cannot flow freely through the pump. The variation in flow and
speed leads to pressure fluctuations due to resistance in the pipe system and in
valves.
The Displacement in Hydraulic Pump is the variable displacement pump is
a device that converts mechanical energy to hydraulic (fluid) energy. The
displacement, or amount of fluid pumped per revolution of the pump's input shaft
can be varied while the pump is running.
The Displacement in the pump is the mount of fluid pumped per
revolution of the pump's input shaft can be varied while the pump is running.

14
Many variable displacement pumps are "reversible", meaning that they can act as
a hydraulic motor and convert fluid energy into mechanical energy.

5. What is meant by slip, and how is it expressed?

Slip in reciprocating pump is basically defined as the difference between

the theoretical discharge and actual discharge of the reciprocating pump.

Actual discharge of a reciprocating pump will be less than the theoretical

discharge of the pump due to leakage of water during operation of pump.

The difference of the theoretical discharge and actual discharge will be

called as slip of reciprocating pump.

Mathematically, we can express the slip in reciprocating pump as

mentioned below
Slip = Qth – Qact

Slip is usually expressed as percentage slip and it will be given by following

expression.

6. How does the basic principle of the rotary differ from reciprocating
pump?

Reciprocating pumps are positive displacement pumps i.e., these pumps

move matter with a mobile object that utilizes diaphragm /piston in the
process of the displacement of liquids. They derive their name due to a
constant backward and forward motion. Those utilizing a piston do so by
drawing liquid or gas alternately into a piston and then venting it out
through an exit valve. The displacement of matter in a closed space takes

15
 place progressively by the placement of a piston /diaphragm as an
obstacle.

Rotary pumps displace liquid by means of the rotational pressure. It

moves at a great speed resulting in a vacuum that results in the suction of
the liquid and its discharge through a discharge valve. They can handle
liquids without any solid content and are cannot displace thick and
gelatinous liquids. They are simply designed and are functional in
situations where centrifuges cannot be used cost-effectively. These pumps
are ideal in situations where there is an expected change in pressure. If
there is a glutinous liquid that needs to be transported, the speed of the
pump should be reduced. The capacity of these pumps is not by any means
depends on the variation of pressure on the side of the suction.

7. Give at least three types of rotary pumps.

1.Screw Pumps- It is intermeshing of the of the threads on the rotors

and the closed fit of the surrounding housing that creates one or more
sets of moving seals in a series between the pump inlet and outlet.
These sets of seals or locks as they are sometime referred to act as a
labyrinth and provide the screw pump with its positive pressure
capability. The successive sets of seals for fully enclosed cavities, it
moves continuously from Inlet to Outlet. These cavities are specially
designed in a way to trap the liquid at the Inlet and carry it along to the
Outlet providing a smooth flow.

2. Gear Pump has two Gears. One Gear is called the Drive Gear while
the other Gear is called as the Idler Gear. The Idler Gear is driven by the
Drive Gear which is driven by a Motor. The direction of rotation of the
Idler Gear is opposite to the direction of rotation of the Drive Gear. The
liquid when enters into the chamber is trapped in the Gear teeth spaces
between the housing bore and the outside of the Gears, is transferred
from the Inlet side of the Gear Pump to the Outlet side of the Gear
Pump. The meshing of the Gears of the discharge side of the Pump
forces the liquid out of the Pump and into the discharge piping.

3. The Lobe pump receives its name from the rounded shape of the
rotor’s radial surfaces. This allows the rotors of the Lobe Pump to be
continuously in contact with each other as they rotate. Lobe Pumps can
be single or multiple Lobe Pumps designed in way to remain
continuously in contact and carry fluid between their rotor lobes in
much the same way as gear pump does.

16
 Just like the Gear Pumps, however, neither the number of lobes nor
their shape permits one rotor to drive the other, and so all true Lobe
Pumps require timing gears.

8. List at least three types of gears used in gear-type rotary pump.

1. External gear pump design for hydraulic power applications.

2. Internal gear (Gerotor) pump design for automotive oil pumps.
3. Internal gear (Crescent Internal Gear) pump design for high viscosity
fluids.

VI. CONCLUSION:

I conclude through reading and scrutinize studying of this activity the

description and types of pumps, the Positive and Non-Positive Displacement
pump. The Positive Displacement pump that provides a constant flow at fixed
speed, regardless of changes in pressure, While the Non-Positive Displacement
pump that operates or much more suitable for high head and high-pressure
applications and the discharge flow is unchanging despite of change in pressure.
I can now identify the basic parts of a pumps and its essential function in
the whole mechanism itself of pump. Now, I have the right knowledge to classify
the types of pumps that I could meet and see while working on the industry. I
would be able describe the pumps in its fundamental information, that would
make me have some edge of knowledge against to others who have not
undertaken this activity and retain the knowledge about the Reciprocating and
Rotary Pumps. Through the knowledge I have gathered through this activity, I`m
able to describe the basic operation of pumps in sequence, just like the lift pump
operates on upstroke of the plunger, the lower valve opens, the upper valve
(situated on or in the plunger itself) is closed, and the low air pressure produced
in the barrel allows atmospheric pressure on the surface of the water source,
down below, to make the water move up the downpipe and eventually fill the
barrel below the plunger. On the downstroke, the lower valve closes, the upper
one opens, and water is forced into the barrel above the upper valve. On the next
upstroke, the water above the plunger is forced out of the spout, located at the
top of the barrel, at the same time as the volume below the barrel fills up with

17
water again. Now, I am aware of the applications and uses of the pumps in variety
of situations achieving the required or necessity.
The knowledge I learned through this activity won`t be go to waste since, it
might be someday that I will design a pump system for certain applications and
the learnings I retain would be a great help such as the factors, that must be
critically analyze to be able to select the suitable pump unit.
The most important knowledge I have learned through this activity was the
professionalism or acting properly adherent to the work ethics, which are
including the precision, accuracy, neatness, safety and ability to execute the work
with respect to the instructions.

VII. ANALYSIS:

Through this activity I have gained variety of information regarding the

fundamentals of a pump unit, such as the positive and non-positive
displacement pump, I have been pressured to read and obtain essential
information in order to answer the questions listed in this activity, which
helps me to retain the knowledge due to effort rule, and might be use it
someday when working in the industry.
The activity had a very useful way to grasp each knowledge, that is so
important as a Mechanical Engineering student to learn each boundary of
the fundamentals of pump units and its classification and types, also the
basic operations that would enable us to critically visualize in our mind
how things work appropriately. The activity had just not given the
fundamental knowledge but also the awareness of being a professional
working in the industry and the work ethics we must possess in order to
work properly with others and had a high contribution for the productivity
of the company we hope to be employed someday.

VIII. Recommendation

The activity had a great contribution for obtaining the knowledge about the
pump units specifically in the Positive and Non-Positive Displacement Pump. So,
overall, this is a great activity to have my time to be spent on. The knowledge I
acquired through reading and self-studying was useful and had great efficiency
only when the student has the concentration and focus to what is required by the
activity and always abide in the objectives, which guaranteed to be achieved when
rigorously studied the activity about the pump units – positive and non-positive
displacement pump. So, since, not all the students have the will power to do

18
studying passively or by-self only, it would be much better to have a professional
guidance who have already work on with the pump units and also have a chance
to interact with the actual pumps and observe it with amusement and appreciate
the knowledge we have obtained by seeing it in real life.

References
Anupoju, S. (2021). What is a Reciprocating Pump? Retrieved from theconstructor.org:
https://theconstructor.org/practical-guide/reciprocating-pump-components-working-
uses/2914/
Britannica, T. E. (2014, May 2). Pump. Encyclopedia Britannica. Retrieved from
ScienceDirect.com: https://www.britannica.com/technology/pump
Hicks, Tyler G. and Theodore W. Edwards. (1971). Pump Application Engineering. Retrieved from
Wikipedia.org: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pump
Stewart, M. (2019). Pump fundamentals. Retrieved from ScienceDirect.com:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/engineering/positive-displacement-pumps
Study.com. (2017, August 29). How Pumps Work: Operation & Performance. Retrieved from
study.com: https://study.com/academy/lesson/how-pumps-work-operation-performance.html
Waqar, E. (2021). What Is Centrifugal Pump? | How does a Centrifugal Pump work? Retrieved
from mechanicalboost.com: https://mechanicalboost.com/centrifugal-pump-an-overview/

19