What is a Pump?

A Pump is a mechanical device that uses to transfer different fluids from one location to another.

It is a hydraulic device that lifts fluids from low to high levels, moves fluids from low to high-
pressure areas. The pump transfers fluid by converting the fluid’s mechanical
energy into pressure energy (hydraulic energy). The hydraulic pump can also be utilized in
processes that require high hydraulic pressure. It can be observed with heavy equipment. In
general, heavy equipment needs lower suction pressures and high pressures of discharge. The
low pressure on the pump’s inlet side causes the liquid to rise from a particular depth and the
high pressure on the outlet side pushes the liquid to the desired head. A pump has similar
working to a compressor. The main difference between them is that they use different working
fluids.

Performance of the pump is affected by the increase in the viscosity of the liquid and the
presence of contamination in it.

Function of pumps:
 Function of the pump is to raise pressure of fluid and impart desirable velocity. So that
fluid may be transported from one place to another. More is the velocity the more is the flow
rate and hence less time required for transportation. However we know that head loss is
directly proportional to the square of flow velocity. It therefore requires pressure of the fluid
at the outlet of the pump to be more to overcome these losses.
 The main purpose of the pump is to raise the pressure, not the velocity of the fluid.
 A pump produces liquid movement or flow: it does not generate pressure. It produces the
flow necessary for the development of pressure which is a function of resistance to fluid flow
in the system.

Pumps

Although pumps are available in a wide range of types, sizes, and materials, they can be
broadly classified into the two categories described earlier—positive displacement and
centrifugal. These categories relate to the manner in which the pumps add energy to the
working fluid. Positive displacement pumps pressurize fluid with a collapsing volume action,
essentially squeezing an amount of fluid equal to the displacement volume of the system with
each piston stroke or shaft rotation. Centrifugal pumps work by adding kinetic energy to a
fluid using a spinning impeller. As the fluid slows in the diffuser section of the pump, the
kinetic energy of the fluid is converted into pressure.

A centrifugal pump’s flow/pressure relationship is described by a performance curve that

plots the flow rate as a function of head (pressure). Understanding this relationship is essential
to properly sizing a pump and designing a system that performs efficiently. For more
information, see the fact sheet in Section 2 titled Centrifugal Pumps.
Pumping System Principles
Design Practices
Fluid system designs are usually developed to support the needs of other systems. For
example, in cooling system applications, the heat transfer requirements determine how many
heat exchangers are needed, how large each heat exchanger should be, and how much flow is
required. Pump capabilities are then calculated based on the system layout and equipment
characteristics. In other applications, such as municipal wastewater removal, pump capabilities
are determined by the amount of water that must be moved and the height and pressure to which
it must be pumped. The pumps are sized and configured according to the flow rate and pressure
requirements of the system or service. After the service needs of a pumping system are
identified, the pump/motor combination, layout, and valve requirements must be engineered.
Selecting the appropriate type of pump and its speed and power characteristics requires an
understanding of its operating principles. The most challenging aspect of the design process is
cost-effectively matching the pump and motor characteristics to the needs of the system. This
process is often complicated by wide variations in flow and pressure requirements. Ensuring that
system needs are met during worst-case conditions can cause designers to specify equipment that
is oversized for normal operation. In addition, specifying larger than necessary pumps increases
material, installation, and operating costs. Designing a system with larger piping diameters might
reduce pumping energy costs, however. See the fact sheet titled Piping Configurations to
Improve Pumping System Efficiency in Section 2 and the tip sheet in Appendix C titled Reduce
Pumping Costs through Optimum Pipe Sizing.
Polák, Martin. (2018). Centrifugal Pumps Innovation - Pump as Turbine. • Innovative
modifications increase the efficiency of radial centrifugal pumps by 4-6%. Advantages of the
innovation are particularly evident in pumps used in reverse turbine mode, where the overall
efficiency increases by up to 10% and performance by 30%. In the field of hydro-power, this
solution offers an economically advantageous alternative to conventional water turbines.
• They are designed primarily to increase the efficiency of turbine pump operation. At the
same time, they do not reduce efficiency in the pump mode.
• Pumps in reverse turbine operation can be applied especially in small water power
plants.
• Innovated pumps can be applied in the transport of liquids: water supply-cleaning,
treatment and distribution of drinking water, domestic waterworks; wastewater treatment,
industry, energetics, chemical and petrochemical industry, mining and metallurgical applications,
agriculture (irrigation).
• We are looking for partners from the field of centrifugal pump production as well as
from research and development and for draftsmen, who are interested in applying the knowledge
gained in innovating pumps in accordance with the requirement to increase the efficiency of their
operation.
 A positive displacement pump is one in which a definite volume of liquid is delivered for
each cycle of pump operation. This volume is constant regardless of the resistance to flow
offered by the system the pump is in, provided the capacity of the power unit driving the pump
or pump component strength limits are not exceeded. The positive displacement pump delivers
liquid in separate volumes with no delivery in between, although a pump having several
chambers may have an overlapping delivery among individual chambers, which minimizes this
effect. The positive displacement pump differs from centrifugal pumps, which deliver a
continuous flow for any given pump speed and discharge resistance. Positive displacement
pumps can be grouped into three basic categories based on their design and operation. The three
groups are reciprocating pumps, rotary pumps, and diaphragm pumps.
Principle of Operation
All positive displacement pumps operate on the same basic principle. This principle can
be most easily demonstrated by considering a reciprocating positive displacement pump
consisting of a single reciprocating piston in a cylinder with a single suction port and a single
discharge port as shown in Figure 12. Check valves in the suction and discharge ports allow flow
in only one direction. During the suction stroke, the piston moves to the left, causing the check
valve in the suction Displacement Pump Operation line between the reservoir and the pump
cylinder to open and admit water from the reservoir. During the discharge stroke, the piston
moves to the right, seating the check valve in the suction line and opening the check valve in the
discharge line. The volume of liquid moved by the pump in one cycle (one suction stroke and
one discharge stroke) is equal to the change in the liquid volume of the cylinder as the piston
moves from its farthest left position to its farthest right position.
Rotary pumps

In a rotary-type pump, rotary motion carries the liquid from the pump inlet to the pump outlet.
Rotary pumps are usually classified according to the type of element that transmits the liquid, so
that we speak of a gear-, lobe-, vane-, or piston-type rotary pump.

Dual and combined controls

The combined-control load-sensing gear pump, is intended for large-displacement pumps
and bypasses secondary flow to tank. It also is patented, and can be used in the same applications
as the dual-control pump. However, because secondary flow must be routed to tank, it cannot be
used when the secondary circuit drives a load.

INNOVATIONS IN MULTISTAGE CENTRIFUGAL PUMPS

1. Impeller An enhanced impeller design ensures a more streamlined flow in the impeller,
reducing eddy flow and friction losses. Tiny margins determine the success of the final result, so
manufacturer aimed for the very best. They developed a highly specialized laser-welding
technology which facilitates unmatched accuracy. This technology literally makes dreams come
true, allowing for a seamless transition from the sketchpad to real life. They use it to bring you
impellers of truly superior design and construction, aiming for the point of theoretical perfection.
2. Cartridge Seal
The specially designed cartridge seal increases reliability, ensures safe handling and
enables easy service and access. Internal leakage caused by pressure differentials within the
pump can be minimized. Tests on pumps have shown that an impeller seal clearance gap of just
0.1 mm between the impeller and the chamber causes a 5% drop in efficiency. The reason for
this efficiency loss is quite simply that when liquid seeps out into the pump, precious energy is
wasted on circulating that liquid. To reduce internal leakage to an absolute minimum, use of a
floating seal ring between chambers can provides a close to perfect seal.
Unique cartridge seal design
The pump of course deserves an outstanding seal. So do you. The seal used in the pump
line combines the best features of standard seals, wrapped up in an ingenious cartridge design
that provides unique advantages. All of these ensure extra reliability. The durable seal is made
from hardwearing materials which prevent downtime and prolong the lifetime of the seal. All
axial movement has been eliminated, preventing wear of the shaft and rubber parts – a typical
problem area for traditional seals. The cartridge seal is a balanced type seal, a fact which makes
it less insensitive to pressure. We know, however, that even the best of materials are not
necessarily enough to guarantee success in real life. That is why the innovative team of
manufacturer set out to eliminate the small, yet crucial, factors that can have a negative impact
on pump reliability. Many of these have to do with handling, assembly and service.
Safe and easy handling
The peerless cartridge design ensures that the seal components will never be assembled
wrongly, the spring will never be incorrectly preloaded, and that sensitive surfaces will never be
subjected to greasy fingers or dirt. All these factors are common causes of short seal lifetimes in
other pumps. The cartridge design also enables rapid replacement when the seal ultimately does
need changing after a long period of service. All in all, downtime is minimized. Naturally, this
translates into significant savings for your business. The cartridge design allows you to replace
the seal in minutes – without special tools and without dismantling the pump.
3. Dry-running sensor
The patented manufacturer’s system eliminates the risk of breakdowns due to dry
running. If there is no liquid in the pump, the system will immediately stop it.
Superior dry-running protection
Dry running is the most common cause of pump failure. In most pumps, the shaft seal
and bearings will burn out almost immediately if liquid stops flowing in the pump. The
manufacturer’s innovative pump is different. As part of manufacturer’s constant dedication to
innovation, they have tested new and alternative materials to bring you the best possible solution.
This means that they can equip pumps with a shaft seal and bearing system that can withstand
extreme heat and friction for longer periods of time. This makes them less unforgiving if the
pump does run dry

Latest Innovations in Pumps

Submersible mixers

Anamix horizontal submersible mixers from KSB Inc. mix, homogenize, and thicken wastewater
and sludge. Units have an 8- to 24-inch self-cleaning propeller with up to 13.4-hp/1,750-rpm
motor and 2,359-gpm capacity. A tandem mechanical sealing arrangement seals the shaft, while
a leak-proof cable entry prevents water from wicking inside the motor. The pumps have a close-
coupled design, gear drive, and cable plug that plug and unplugs without an electrician. 

High-volume pumping

Electric- or diesel-driven self-priming pumps from Griffin Pump and Equipment Inc. have non-
clog impellers that handle stringy materials and solids up to 4.5 inches. An ample clean-out port
enables operators to clear debris beyond 4.5 inches without removing the suction pipe or hose.
The pumps deliver flows to 17,000 gpm and head capacities of 240 feet or more. They are
available in vacuum-assist, diaphragm prime, or compressor prime.

Microprocessor management

The Chem-Tech XPV Series pump from Pulsafeeder Inc., a unit of IDEX Corp. combines
variable-speed peristaltic pump technology with control electronics. Duplex models have two
pump heads that deliver twice the flow of two different chemicals simultaneously. The
microprocessor handles various input signal types and onboard timer programs to customize the
pump to any application.

The electronic management system matches the variable-speed motor to the real-time dosing
requirements as directed by a 4-20 mA signal, Hall Effect or Dry Contact pulse input, External
Stop or manual operation in Fixed Speed mode. The pump also has a cycle timer and daily timer.

Hydraulic metering

Series 500 hydraulic metering pumps from Neptune Chemical Pump Co. are adjustable while
running through 100 percent of range. They have capabilities to 80-gph simplex and 160-gph
duplex with pressures up to 3,000 psi. The 1/3-hp single-phase motor includes a built-in
automatic thermal overload.

The pump valve cartridge removes for cleaning without disturbing piping. A variable oil bypass
stroke adjustment improves valve performance. Options include an internal relief valve viewing
line and electronic and pneumatic stroke control that changes stroke length, not speed. 
Reversible grinder

The 2-hp Model 6840 Shark grinder pump from Zoeller Engineered Products has a reversible
stainless steel star cutter and plate hardened to Rockwell C 55-60. The bidirectional design
eliminates cutter jams. The pump’s discharge configuration is 1.25-inch NPT vertical. The
standard or explosion-proof three-phase motor runs at 3,450 rpm. It’s cool-run technology
effectively disperses heat, promoting long service life..

Blower package

The Qube blower package from Tuthill Vacuum & Blower Systems has a low noise (<75 dBA
attenuation), high-efficiency Qx rotary positive displacement blower. It provides 18 psi or 17-
inches-Hg dry vacuum, 3,400 cfm, and 4,800 rpm. A powder-coated steel enclosure reduces
noise to 24 dBA. The unit has a compact footprint, integral check valve, discharge from the back,
and discharge flexible connector. 

Custom-designed packages

Custom-designed pump control applications from Revere Control Systems include duplex,
triplex, and high-horsepower application. One control package serves duplex 200-hp pumps
supplying a golf course sprinkler system with effluent from the Fort Walton (Fla.) Wastewater
Treatment Plant. The variable frequency drive system includes an outdoor enclosure with
insulation, air conditioning, and bypass contactors.

Enviroprime pump

The 4JSCM Enviroprime, a 4-inch automatic priming centrifugal pump from Thompson Pump,
provides flows up to 1,450 gpm and heads up to 130 feet. It handles solids up to 3 inches. The
priming system prevents product blow-by, making it environmentally friendly.

 Single compressions cycle

The self-priming, seal-free MiniPump from Eccentric Pumps LLC has flow rates from 1 gph to 2
gpm. A single hose compression per cycle extends hose life, produces more flow per revolution,
and creates high vacuum for suction lift applications. The reversible dry-running pumps run
slower and 8 to 10 degrees F cooler than sliding shoe pumps.

Suction solver

The 1700 Series, a heavy-duty, hydraulically actuated tubular diaphragm pump from Lutz-Jesco
America Corp. handles inconsistent suction conditions, providing suction lift capabilities to 16
feet total dynamic head and 1,640 gph. It has a manual micrometer stroke length control, an
internal hydraulic relief valve, easy-maintenance cartridge-type check valves, an internal back
pressure valve, automatic stroke length control, diaphragm leak detection, and AC or DC speed
control.
 Air-operated pumps

Pumps 2000 America air-operated double diaphragm pumps from Megator Corp. come in 1-,
1.5-, and 2-inch designs that pass 1.5-inch solids. The stall-free air motor runs without
lubrication and uses half the industry standard for air consumption. Explosion-proof conductive
plastic construction resists deterioration even in low-pH locations and is lightweight. The 2-inch
model weighs 41 pounds. The maintenance-free high-suction lift (27 feet wet or dry) comes from
double-hinged diaphragms, long stroke, and self-cleaning slurry valves.

Packaged water systems

Factory-prefabricated, protected water reuse systems from Metropolitan Industries reclaim

effluent from the final disinfection chamber. They come complete with controls, tanks, and
pumps that meet flow and pressure applications such as split case and close-coupled, multi-stage,
and flex-coupled end suction. 800/323-1665: www.metropolitanind.com.

Metering pumps

Available in four models with flow rates from 1 gph to 2 gpm and pressures up to 300 psi,
ProCam Smart pumps from Bran+Luebbe, an SPX Process Equipment operation, meter pH
control, flocculation, and fluoridation using standard components. The hermetically closed
pumps have a mechanically operated polytetrafluoro-ethylene double-diaphragm arrangement
that operators can monitor.

Peristaltic hose pumps

Constructed of ductile iron and steel, Abaque series peristaltic hose pumps from Blackmer, a
company within the Dover Corporation Pump Solutions Group, have discharge pressures to
217.5 psi. A seal-free design eliminates leaks, contamination, and product loss, while reducing
maintenance and repairs.

Hoses come in natural rubber, Buna or NBR, and EPDM. Available in nine sizes with flow rates
from 0.07 to 237 gpm, the reversible pumps are self-priming to 29.5 feet manometric lift, can run
dry continuously without detrimental effects, and handle a high concentration of solids. 

High-flow molded pump

Series HF horizontal pumps from Serfilco Ltd. have flows to 400 gpm or 170 feet total dynamic
head, come in high-temperature polypropylene or chlorinated polyvinyl chloride construction,
and are ANSI dimensional with the optional ANSI 150-pound flange connection. An enclosed
impeller, molded to close tolerances, allows the pumps to operate at peak horsepower (up to 30
hp) efficiency for many flow and head requirements, including dry-run capability. All have an
external Type 21 mechanical seal with silicon carbide seal faces. Models with double mechanical
seals require water lubrication for solutions containing abrasives.

Tube mounted

Tube-mounted screw pumps from Schreiber LLC use a variation of the Archimedes screw pump
inserted in a steel stationary pipe, simplifying structure design and eliminating grouting. The
self-contained units provide variable capacity at constant speed, and come factory-assembled.
They can be set at a fixed angle or the lower end supported by a hoist to vary the pump angle and
for maintenance access.

 The lower bearing design is based on an oil-lubricated, single-row spherical roller, combination
radial-and-thrust bearing with true self-aligning capability. An elevated oil reservoir with feed
hose lubricates the bearing. Oil is not continuously consumed but changed periodically. A simple
pillow block bearing supports the pumps at the upper shaft..

HEAVY-DUTY hose pumps

With operating pressures to 232 psi and flow rates to 350 gpm, heavy-duty SPX pumps from
Watson-Marlow Bredel Pumps handle abrasive sludge with no effect on pump life. Peristaltic
hose pumps work by alternately compressing and relaxing a machined hose element between the
pump housing and compressing shoes.

The fluid ahead of the shoe is pushed toward the discharge, while the rebounding hose behind
the shoe draws in more fluid. With 100 percent compression at all times, the pumps do not slip,
providing metering accuracy and pressure performance. With no pump seals, seats, or valves,
abrasive slurries are no problem. With its self-loading design, hose replacement is quick and
easy.

Vertical turbine pump

The H2O Works multipurpose vertical turbine (MPVT) pump from Patterson Pump Co. has an
internal vane that prevents stringy solids from wrapping around the shaft. Cast-iron bronze-fitted
bowls from 12 to 40 inches deliver 1,500 to 20,000 gpm. Units have a cast-iron discharge head,
fabricated steel column, stainless steel head and bowl shaft, and alloy steel line shaft. Open line
shaft construction is standard.

Recirculator pump

The submersible recirculator Chopper pump from Vaughan Co. Inc. has a guiderail system and
an adjustable recirculator nozzle assembly that mixes and pumps solids-laden waste pits. The
chopper design eliminates plugging and the need for a comminutor or screens. Units have heat-
treated alloy steel and ductile iron components and an oil bath seal-and-bearing system for
reliable operation.
Fluid Handling Pumps

Fluid Handling Pumps can be defined as mechanical devices that add energy to fluids to increase
the flow rate and static pressure. All fluid pumps are classified as either positive displacement
(Hydraulic) pumps or dynamic pumps and are used to accomplish this process. Fluid pumps are
all pumps designed to handle industrial fluid elements. The capability of fluid pumps is
influenced by flow rate, pressure, power, head and efficiency.

SEKO to showcase Elektra IoT pump controller at Aquatech

Among these will be SEKO’s Elektra digital controller, which uses the latest Internet of Things
(IoT) technology to connect operators to their dosing pumps 24/7 from any location via
smartphone. The ability to manage equipment with such flexibility unlocks multiple benefits,
including precise digital dosing, process optimization and cost control in applications such as
wastewater treatment, power generation and potable water treatment.

Pumping Innovation into Offshore

New reserves are increasingly found in deepwater where drilling and production is a major
challenge. Offshore pumps are constantly evolving to adapt to challenging conditions and offer
new applications. Chris Lo examines some of the most innovative products on the market.

Sealless magnetic drive pumps

Magnetic drive pumps are hardly new, having been pioneered more than 60 years ago. But
continual refinement has brought a steady increase in achievable pressures, flow rates and
operational temperature range. Modern magnetic drive pumps are able to reach flow rates of
around 8,800 gallons per minute and pressure values of up to 2,600psi. They can also withstand
temperatures between -100°C and 450°C. These benefits are added to the original selling point of
magnetic drive pumps, the fact that they eliminate the danger of leaks or emissions. Sealless
pumps can be particularly cost-effective over the long term, as they eliminate replaceable seals
and cut down on maintenance. Sealless magnetic drive pumps were selected when the Alma
platform, located offshore Nova Scotia and part of the Sable Offshore Energy Project (SOEP),
required booster pumps to increase suction. The pumps were provided from HMD Kontro’s GSP
range, and have the added benefit of being able to accommodate solids up to 5%, and comply
with the American Petroleum Institute’s API 685 and API 610 for offshore operation. Kontro’s
GSP pumps were used again on the SOEP when the South Venture platform needed vent drum
return pumps.

Hamworthy’s new seawater lift and fire pumps

In an industry where regulatory bodies are more vigilant than ever before, more products are
being offered specifically to comply with various offshore regulations to put the minds of
offshore operators at ease.
Hamworthy’s new combined pumps can output 15% higher head per flow unit due to the
company’s trimming of impellers, with a semi-radial design for a more stable performance curve
at higher capacities.

By using moulded intermediate chambers instead of welded chambers, the pumps are 30%
lighter than much of the competition. Although the pumps have been initially offered with a
seawater lifting and firefighting focus, Fischer says that other applications for the pumps could
be possible, including offshore CO2 pumping.

The Caledyne balance pump

The new balance pump, launched by Caledyne in August 2009, promises to extend the
productive life of mature offshore gas wells. The pump is a hydraulically actuated reciprocating
pump, used to remove water from gas wells (it can also be used for low volume oil production to
replace rod pumps), in conjunction with the Torus safety valve, which makes the balance pump
suitable for offshore use. The pump’s deliquification process minimises liquid loading, the water
that collects at the bottom of wellbores, which gradually inhibits production. The balance pump
is made up of two hydraulic lines, one filled with water and one filled with oil. Using the
hydrostatic pressure differential between the two lines, water can be drawn up into its lower
chamber. Key benefits highlighted by Caledyne include the ability to be installed deeper than the
majority of standard pumps, a sand screen to filter out larger particles from the pump’s intake, as
well as corrosion-resistant steel construction to maintain a high run life, even in the face of high
hydrogen sulphide and CO2 concentrations.