Circor Pump Selector Program Help

INDEX

User Policy Page 2

Section 1 - Introduction & Main Screen Overview Page 4

Section 2 - INPUT – Application Information Page 7

Section 3 – INPUT – Operating Conditions Page 17

Section 4 - Pump Selection by Program Page 19

Section 5 - Specific Pump Performance Page 21

Section 6 - OUTPUT – Calculated Results Page 22

Click Here to Review the
Section 7 – Graphs and Technical Information Page 23 Privacy and Security Information

Section 8 - Tables and Graphs as Documents Page 24

Section 9 - Units Page 25

Section 10 – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Page 26

Technical Appendix

Pressure Terms & Reference Systems Page 27

Inlet Pressure Terms Page 29

Circor Pump Selector Program – Help File | 1/4/2018

Cavitation – Net Positive Inlet Pressure Required Page 31

Relief Valve Configurations and Cautions Page 32

Pump Standards and Tolerances Page 34

Motor/Driver Selection – Power & Torque Values Page 37

What Effects Efficiency of PD Pumps Page 38

Viscosity versus Temperature - The Issue of Prediction Page 42

Gas Entrainment Measurement Method Page 45

Help File Revision History Page 47

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 CIRCOR
PUMP SELECTOR PROGRAM
END-USER USAGE POLICY

END USER LICENSE AGREEMENT (EULA)

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The PUMP SELECTOR PROGRAM (hereinafter referred to as “SOFTWARE”) is protected by

copyright laws and international copyright treaties as well as intellectual property rights of Circor
(“Company”) and other intellectual property laws and treaties.

The SOFTWARE is licensed to the user, not sold by the Company. The Company reserves all rights
not expressly granted to the user in this EULA.

The term "COMPUTER" as used herein shall mean the HARDWARE.

By using this SOFTWARE, you agree to be bound by the terms hereof.

1. GRANT OF USAGE. As a designated user, you have the limited right to use the SOFTWARE for its
intended purpose.

1.1 Logon: Each user shall have their own logon and password which shall not be shared.

1.2 Rental. You may not rent, lease or lend your logon and password.

1.3 Termination. Without prejudice to any other rights, Company may

terminate this EULA for any reason. If the Company terminates this EULA, the user’s account will
be rendered “Inactive”.
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2. DESCRIPTION OF OTHER RIGHTS AND LIMITATIONS.

2.1 Limitations on Reverse Engineering, Decompilation and Disassembly. You may not reverse
engineer, decompile, or disassemble the SOFTWARE, except and only to the extent that such activity
is expressly permitted by applicable law notwithstanding this limitation.

2.2 Trademarks. This policy does not grant any rights in connection with any trademarks or service
marks of the Company or its suppliers.

2.3. As a user, you agree that the Company’s Privacy Policy.

3. COPYRIGHT. All title and intellectual property rights in and to the SOFTWARE (including but not
limited to any images, photographs, animations, video, audio, music, text and "applets,"
incorporated into the SOFTWARE), the accompanying printed materials, and any copies of the
SOFTWARE, are owned by the Company or its suppliers. You may not copy the printed materials
accompanying the SOFTWARE. All title and intellectual property rights in and to the content which
may be accessed through use of the SOFTWARE is the property of the Company and/or its
respective content owner and may be protected by applicable copyright or other intellectual

2
 property laws and treaties. This policy grants you no rights to use such content. All rights not
expressly granted under this policy are reserved by the Company and its suppliers.
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4. EXPORT RESTRICTIONS. You agree that you will not export or re-export the SOFTWARE to any
country, person, or entity subject to U.S. export regulations, and if applicable, local export
regulations. You specifically agree not to export or re-export the SOFTWARET: (i) to any country to
which the U.S. has embargoed or restricted the export of goods or services, but are not necessarily
limited to Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Sudan and Syria, or to any national of any such country,
wherever located, who intends to transmit or transport the SOFTWARE back to such country; (ii) to
any person or entity who you know or have reason to know will utilize the SOFTWARE or portion
thereof in the design, development or production of nuclear, chemical or biological weapons; or (iii)
to any person or entity who has been prohibited from participating in export transactions by any
federal agency of the U.S. government or other applicable government entity. You warrant and
represent that no U.S. federal agency, or any other applicable government entity, has suspended,
revoked or denied your export privileges. Your obligations and representations herein shall
survive any termination of your account.

5. WARRANTY. THIS SOFTWARE, AND ALL ACCOMPANYING FILES, DATA AND MATERIALS,
ARE DISTRIBUTED "AS IS" AND WITH NO WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, WHETHER EXPRESS
OR IMPLIED. Good data processing procedure dictates that any program be thoroughly tested with
non-critical data and on non-critical HARDWARE before relying on it. The user must assume the
entire risk of using the program.

THIS DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTY CONSTITUTES AN ESSENTIAL PART OF THE AGREEMENT.

ANY LIABILITY OF THE COMPANY WILL BE LIMITED EXCLUSIVELY TO REFUND OF ANY
PURCHASE PRICE. IN ADDITION, IN NO EVENT SHALL THE COMPANY, OR ITS PRINCIPALS,
SHAREHOLDERS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES, AFFILIATES, CONTRACTORS, SUBSIDIARIES, OR
PARENT ORGANIZATIONS, BE LIABLE FOR ANY INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, OR PUNITIVE
DAMAGES WHATSOEVER RELATING TO THE USE OF THIS SOFTWARE, OR YOUR RELATIONSHIP
WITH THE COMPANY. IN ADDITION, IN NO EVENT DOES THE COMPANY AUTHORIZE YOU TO USE
THIS SOFTWARE IN APPLICATIONS OR SYSTEMS WHERE THIS PROGRAM'S FAILURE TO
PERFORM CAN REASONABLY BE EXPECTED TO RESULT IN A SIGNIFICANT PHYSICAL INJURY, OR
Circor Pump Selector Program – Help File | 1/4/2018

IN LOSS OF LIFE. ANY SUCH USE BY YOU IS ENTIRELY AT YOUR OWN RISK, AND YOU AGREE TO
HOLD THE COMPANY HARMLESS FROM ANY CLAIMS OR LOSSES RELATING TO SUCH
UNAUTHORIZED USE.

6. SCOPE OF AGREEMENT. This Agreement is the complete statement of the Agreement between
the parties on the subject matter, and merges and supersedes all other or prior understandings,
purchase orders, agreements and arrangements. This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of
the State of North Carolina. Exclusive jurisdiction and venue for all matters relating to this
Agreement shall be in courts and for a located in the State of North Carolina, and you consent to
such jurisdiction and venue.

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 SECTION 1
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Introduction & Main Screen Overview

Welcome to the Circor Pump Selector Program!!!!

The program has pumps from multiple Circor Business Units with the idea to continue to add more
moving forward. It currently can select standard products for both Two Screw and Three Screw
companies. Some users have been limited to a single type based on their typical applications.

Main Screen Overview and Basic Operation

The main program screen is divided into different sections. These sections provide the user with a
variety of options and tools. The screen layout and sections are shown below.

User Name and Company

Selection Section
Application Tabs
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Output Tab

Additional
Information

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 User Name and Company – This area will display your name and the company that you are with when
you are logged on. (If they are not correct, please update them under the user tab)

Application Tabs – Working from Left to Right will provide a smooth flow for entering in the data
required to make the appropriate selection. (These areas will be described in more detail later in this document).

• Liquids – This tab when allow you to select your application fluid. This also includes the amount
of contamination and gas that is in the fluid.
• Application – This tab allows the user to put in additional details regarding the environment,
relief valve settings and API requirements.
• INPUT – This tab allows for up to four operating conditions to be entered to make a selection.
• Settings – This tab allows the user to enter the flow range to limit selections, enter in
information regarding the customer and the project information (to be displayed on the output)
and to save settings regarding the units to be used by this user.
• Projects – This tab allows users to save projects, recall projects, and share with other users.
• User – This tab is not available for everyone. This tab provides the ability to set users
permissions.

Output Tab – This section of the screen provides the results for the selected pump. These are the most
common results that are required for the first level selection process. By clicking on different pumps in
the right section of the screen, the results change to the pump selected.

Additional Information – The tabs in this window provide addition information as follows:

• Notes – This tab provides general notes regarding the pump and or fluid. It will also display any
warning notes or failure notes regarding the pump selection. If a warning or a failure occurs,
the tab will have a note indicating such next to it.
• Additional Outputs – This tab provides additional calculated values regarding the selection.
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• Engineering Tab – Not Available for all users – This tab provides more information regarding the
pump limits and some high level results that are used for determining if the pump is acceptable
for this application.

Selection Section – This area is where the pumps that are selected for review are displayed. There is a
generic picture of the pump as well as a few values displayed to help make quick decisions. This area
also allows sorting of the pumps by different results and a narrowing of the flow range from the values
in the setting area. The tabs across the top of the section allow for:

• Selected Pump – This tab provides the pump icons with the pump that is currently selected
highlighted. The pump description is also displayed on this tab.
• Flow Power – This tab provides the plot of the Flow Rate and Power Required for the selected
pump in a graphical format for quick review.
• Efficiency - This tab provides the plot of the Efficiency for the selected pump in a graphical
format for quick review.

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 • Speed Torque - This tab provides the plot of the Torque at different speeds for the selected
pump in a graphical format for quick review.
• Brochure – This tab will display the brochure for the product that is selected. This brochure can
also be found on the Business Unit’s webpage.
• Resources – This tab will display a resource page from the Business Unit’s web page that may
provide some addition information that might be useful.
• Help – Displays this PDF file to provide explanation of the features of the selector program.

Once the Application information and conditions are supplied, the user can then click on the “Search for

Pumps” button located in the Selection Section.

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 SECTION 2
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INPUT Application Information

Liquids Tab
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This screen will change depending on different inputs. There is a long list of fluids that are available by
selecting the down arrow on the right side of the Fluid Type box. Another method of finding your fluid is
to start typing a fluid type. For example, if you type in “ISO”, “Fuel” or “Lube” in the box, you will get a
filtered list of fluids that contain those letters.

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 Fluid Contamination Levels:

The Fluid Condition box allows you to select “Clean” or “Particulate

Contamination in Liquid”. If you pick clean, the fluid is considered to be
filtered and free of debris. If you select Particulate, then the additional input
for the “Maximum Particulate Contamination by Volume” box will appear
and you will be required to enter a percentage by volume.

0.50% BS&W at 500 GPM through a pipeline

7.4 Days to fill a Standard Two Car Garage

Fluid Entrained Gas:

Most fluids contain a certain amount of entrained gas. This “The Maximum
Entrained Gas by Volume” box is used to enter the percentage of the gas in the
fluid. This information is used to make select pumps that are designed to handle
different levels of entrainment. This assumes that the gas is well distributed
within the liquid. If it is a “slug” of gas, please contact the factory for further
review of the application.

A method to measure the gas entrainment can be found in the Technical

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Appendix of this document.

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 Application Tab

The “Application Tab” is used for defining some of the generic system Requirements.

Pre-Filter Information

Steel Case: Some applications require pumps that have steel cases. If your application does not, keep
the setting to “Optional”

Steam Jacket: In some cases, pumps are required to be kept hot so that the liquid inside does not
become to viscous or solid. If this is not an issue for your application, please leave this setting as
“Optional”
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Shaft Rotation: Most of the Circor products are clockwise rotation when looking at the shaft of the
pump. In some applications, pumps that turn counterclockwise are required. Use this option to select
this. If your application requires otherwise, leave it as optional.

Relief Valve: Three Relief Valve configurations are possible. Select the option that best fits your
application. Some pumps have the option of having an internal relief valve. If the internal relief valve
option is chosen, then the program will only select pumps that have this option. For more information
regarding relief valves, see the Technical Appendix. Please note that relief valves should never be used
as a “pressure” control valve but only as an emergency bypass valve to protect personnel and other
system components.

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 Magnetic Coupling: Some of the Circor product lines support the use of magnetic couplings. When
these applications are required, special cooling flow is calculated and thus reduces the flow rate of the
pump. If a magnetic coupling is not required, select Optional.

Pumping Element Material: In some cases, applications require stainless steel pump elements. In those
cases, select “Stainless Steel” in the drop down. If not, leave the setting as “Free of Non-Ferrous
Materials”.

Standard: Select the standard that applies. The program will calculate the flow rate and power
requirements per the chosen selections methods. If API 2nd or API 3rd edition are selected, the program
will also filter out pumps that are sold into these requirements. (Note that pumps that are required to
meet API are more costly than “typical” pumps.) See the “Pumping Standards” section of the
Appendix for additional information about standards.

Frequency Converter: A very small group of pumps can be provided with a frequency converter.
Choose “None” unless you are sure it is required.

Installation: The default is set to “Dry” because this is the most common application. You can also
check “All Types” to prevent any limitation. If you select “Immersed”, then these pumps can be
submerged into the liquid are most of the time do not have shaft seals. The last choice is “Elevator”.
Choosing “Elevator” provides pumps that are typically sold into elevator services. Some of these will be
submersible and some will be dry units.

Gear Box Information Tab

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Max Air Temperature: This box is used for Warren Pump products only at this time. It is the maximum
temperature air that the pump will be exposed to. It is used to be able to calculate the heat transfer
rates from the pump to the air and thus is used to determine the cooling requirements for the pump.

Max Oil Temperature: This box is also used for the Warren Pump product family only. The oil is for the
gear box. The maximum allowable temperature of the oil is based on the oil type. This temperature is
also used for determining the cooling requirements for the system.

Gear Box Oil Viscosity: This box is also used for the Warren Pump product family only. This value is the
typical gear box oil viscosity.

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 INPUT Tab

Pump List: The pump list is a “Tree” structure similar to folders used by
Windows. A check box is next to each section to allow selection (checked
box) or do not select from (empty box). The structure allows the user to
keep going down by levels so that “All Pumps” can be selected or all the
way to a “Single Pump”.

By selecting the “+” sign or “-“ sign, the tree can be expanded or
Circor Pump Selector Program – Help File | 1/4/2018

collapsed as required. The image to the right shows the tree partially
expanded. As new products are removed, the tree will change to add
these products. Each major product sections (Two Screw & Three Screw)
has a section called “Non-Selectable”. This area is used to provide for
historical reference information. Pumps that were once considered standard product but have been
phased out may be found here. As the description states, they will not be selected during the “All
Pumps” selection, however, if a single pump is selected, the performance of the pump will be calculated.

Drive Type – By clicking on the down arrow in the Drive Type field, the possible selections appear. Only
one choice can be selected. Choosing User Defined allows the users to input the pump shaft rotating
speed into the INPUT section of the program. Choosing the 60 Hz or 50 Hz options will check for pumps
at each of the operating poles (2, 4, 6 and 8) for each pump. The drop down menu is shown below.

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 If a single pump is selected, a new option is presented in the Drive Type drop down menu in most cases
(e.g., 12L can’t use this feature). This new option is "Calculated Required Speed". The program will
calculate the required pump shaft speed to obtain the flow rate required in Operating Condition
#1. This drop down menu is shown below.

Auto (Next to Full Accumulation) – If the box is checked, the program will automatically calculate the RV
Set Pressure and RV Full accumulation per the equations below. If it is not checked, then the user can
enter in values accordingly.

RV Set Pr essure  Max Disch Pr essure  1.10

RV Full Accumulation  RV Set Pr essure  1.10

RV Set Pressure - This value is the pressure that the Relief Valve is set the “Crack” at. Power and torque
calculations are made at this condition for motor requirements. This value can be as low as the
maximum pressure entered into the INPUT tab at all four conditions however, it can never be lower.
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RV Full Accumulation - This value is the pressure that the Relief Valve will be at when it is at full open.
Power and torque are calculated are made at this condition for motor requirements. This value is
always equal to or higher than the relief valve set pressure entered.

Fluid Type – This box is reference from the fluid that was selected from the Liquids Tab. If a different
fluid is required, then go back to the Liquids tab.

Operating Conditions: This area will be explained in detail in section 3 of this document.

Settings Tab

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 Flow Range: The Minimum and Maximum Flow Range Fields are used to determine the flow range of
pumps relative to the “Required Flow” for condition 1 of the INPUT conditions (described in Section 3).
It is important to have a range to be able to get a good list of pumps. The flow range can be refined
after the selection if there are a large number of pumps available. For Example, if the request was for a
pump that would provide 100gpm, then the program would select pumps from 93 gpm to 125 gpm with
the settings shown above. We suggest keeping the default settings to insure the best chance that some
pumps will be found to meet the requirements.

Customer Name: This field is used to enter the name of the customer. This information is included on
the output table and output graphs.

Order Comments: There are three lines for entering comments regarding the project.

Create Reports: This drop down allows you to select the output reports that you want to create.
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Report Language: This drop down allows you to select a language for the output reports to be presented
in.

Save My Current User Settings as Default: This button stores all of your current settings as the your
personal default. Every time you run the program, it will come in with what you have currently on the
screen. This is a great way to set your units and other preferences to your liking.

Reset Settings: This button will reset all of the units to the users current default units.

Available Unit Sets: This drop down will provide you with a list of “System” unit choices as well as “User
Defined” unit sets. If you select a unit set and then press the load button, it will reset all of your units in
the program and convert the current numbers from the old units to the new units.

Load: Use this button to load the selected unit set into the program.

Save: If you have selected a unit set and have modified a unit, you can save the modified unit set.

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 New: If you hit this button, a window will appear that will allow you to “name” all of the current units as
a “user defined” set of units.
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 PROJECTS Tab

The projects tab is one of the more difficult sections to understand. After the user becomes familiar
with the operation of each area, it will become clearer how to use this very powerful feature.

Project Owner: Over time, you will get a large collection of projects that you have created or that have
been shared with you. You can filter (limit to a single user) the projects that show up in the list by
selecting a single user. You can also select your own name to limit the list to projects that you have
created.
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Projects: This field is the current project name that was selected. By selecting the down arrow on the
right side of the box, the complete list of projects can be scrolled through and a single project selected.
(Note that the project will not be opened or used at this point).

Share With: This field shows the other users that this project is shared with. The down arrow on the
right side will allow you to select and de-select other users for this project. This is a great way to provide
the information to another associate the details of the application that you are working on.

Name: This field is used to type in a new project name when you decide to create a new project based
on all of your application inputs.

Description: This field allows you to provide some information regarding the application. This may be
just a note or a comment to remind yourself about some unique about the application. This field can
only be changed by the associate that created the project.

Notes (Shared): This field allows all users that the project is shared with to provide comments.

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 Modified: This displays the date and time that the project was last modified and saved.

Buttons

• Load: Once a project is selected from the “Projects” drop down list, to load the saved
information into the application fields, the “Load” button must be pressed.
• Save: If you modify something in your project (application data, units, notes or anything else,
you can save the new information into the project again. Note that the old information will
be overwritten with the new data when you do this.
• New: After enter the “Name” of the project and all of the other information regarding the
project, you can create the “New Project” and it will be added to your list as well as those that
you share it with.
• Delete: This button allows you to clean out old projects.
• Refresh: If you are on the projects tab and someone shares a project with you, it will not
show up on the list until you hit retrieve. If the project is already shared and saved before
going to the project tab, it will be retrieved automatically.
• Load Last Configuration: (At top of section) – The CFX Selector program will allow some
pumps to be configured. Once the configuration button is selected, the web site goes to the
configuration page. If you try to return to the selector, then the information is no longer
available. This button was created to allow the retrieval of the last configuration (Only the
Last).
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 SECTION 3
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INPUT – Operating Conditions

In Section 2, the basic application information was covered. In this section, the operating conditions are
now to be entered into the program. It is possible to enter up to four different conditions to check
performance as well as operating limits at these conditions.

The input section of the main screen allows the user to define the operating conditions including the
Circor Pump Selector Program – Help File | 1/4/2018

desirable units. To search for a pump or to calculate the performance for a specific pump, type the
operating conditions into the appropriate boxes under the condition numbers (i.e., in the boxes
provided in the columns under Conditions #1, #2, #3 and #4. To calculate the performance at a
condition, all of the required values need to be supplied. If one box is left blank, the results for that
condition will not be calculated.

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 Clicking on the down arrows next to each of the units allows the program user to pick from a list of
various units for each category.
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 SECTION 4
[Return to INDEX]

Pump Selection by Program

After all of the required operating conditions are entered (Condition #1 as a minimum), the user is ready
to search for a pump. By pressing the “SEARCH FOR PUMPS” button, the program will start to run
through the pump database to identify as many as 20 pumps that are suitable for all of the application
information that was provided.
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When the selection process is completed, the pumps that are possible will show up in the window. Each
pump will have an icon, a model, the percentage of flow rate relative to the required flow rate (at
condition #1), the Required Power, and the operating speed for a quick scan of the selections. The
pumps will be sorted left to right (and then down) relative to the sort bar just above the window. By
holding down the left button on the mouse, these can be moved around to create the sort order
required. By left clicking on the word, the arrow (just to the left) will change the direction of the sort
(ascending/descending).

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 The Flow Rate% bar is used to narrow the flow rate of the pumps selected to the Condition #1 required
flow rate. As the boxes at each end are slid, the pumps will vanish or appear depending on the direction
that the slider is being slid. Note that this will only filter from the pumps that were selected.

To select a pump, left click on the pump and it will be highlighted in gray as well as the model
description will be added to the “Selected Pumps” tab.
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 SECTION 5
[Return to INDEX]

Specific Pump Performance

SECTION 2 describes the method to select a single pump from the Pump List. If you haven’t already read
this section, you will want to do so before continuing with this section.
Circor Pump Selector Program – Help File | 1/4/2018

Once a specific pump has been selected (see picture above), the Required Flow Rate label and field no
longer appear on the screen. Similar to SECTION 4, all of the operating conditions need to be filled in for
Condition #1 as well as any other conditions required by the user. Clicking on the Select Pump button
causes the program to calculate the performance of the selected pump.

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 SECTION 6
[Return to INDEX]

OUTPUT – Calculated Results

After selecting a pump (see SECTION 4) or calculating the performance of a specific pump (see SECTION
5), the results are displayed in a table located in the bottom left portion of the main screen in the
OUTPUT – Calculated Results section. You can and should use this portion of the screen to adjust the
units for the calculated output values. This is accomplished by clicking on the down arrows to the right
of the units that need to be changed. This is the same method described in SECTION 3 for the input
value units. These units will be displayed on the graphs as well as the output data sheets.

Available Output Tabs

• OUTPUT – This tab provides the most common information required regarding pump
performance.
• Pump Notes – This tab provides different types of information regarding the selection.
o Fluid Notes – This is information from the fluid library.
o Pump Notes – Some pumps have special features that need to be understood to make
sure they are agreeable for the application.
o Warning Notes – These notes are displayed when the application is near the operating
limits of the pump. They are highlighted with Yellow and a “Warning” indication will
show up in selection screen (under the pump icon) unless there is also a “Failure” note.
If a pump with a “Warning” note is to be selected, Engineering should be contacted for
approval of the pump for the specific application.
o Failure Notes – Pumps will not be selected that “Fail” the performance limits when the
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program is run in “Selection” mode (More than a single pump selected in the pump
tree). If a single pump calculation is to be run, then a “Failure” indication will appear as
well as notes indicating the concern.
• Additional OUTPUT – This tab provides more details relative to pump performance.

Depending on the size of the screen, a scroll bar may appear next to the output window sections. When
the scroll bar is on the screen, this indicates that additional data is available further down the
screen. Click on and hold the scroll slide and drag it up and down to view all of the available data.

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 SECTION 7
[Return to INDEX]

Graphs and Technical Information

Just above the Selection window are a series of Tabs. These tabs are provided to provide additional
information for the pump that is selected.

• Selected Pump – This tab displays the 20 lowest cost pumps from the pump library that will
meet the requirements in the pump application section. A single pump can be selected to
review the performance in the output section.
• Flow Power – This tab provides a graph of the pump performance. It displays in a graphical
format the Flow vs Pressure and the Power vs Pressure curves.
• Efficiency – This tab provides a graph of the pump’s efficiency values vs pressure at each of the
operating conditions.
• Speed Torque – This tab provides a graph of the Torque vs Speed at each of the operating
condition. Since the load against the pump is a function of flow, this graph is an estimate of
what the curve may look like. It will differ for different start up characteristics.
• Brochure – This tab will load the brochure (when available) for the pump selected. The
brochure contains additional information that will be useful in considering the pump for the
specific application.
• Resources – This tab opens a web site that has some reference information from the company
that manufactures the selected pump.
• Help – This tab will display this help file.
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 SECTION 8
[Return to INDEX]

Tables and Graphs as Documents

In the Pump Selection window (Pump Icons), when a pump is

selected, a button under the pump appears that says “Report
Preview”. This button will create a single PDF document with
four pages. The pages include the “Data Table”, “Flow/Power
Graph”, “Efficiency Graph”, and the “Speed Torque Graph”.
This four page document can then be e-mailed or saved on
your hard drive for future reference.
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 SECTION 9
[Return to INDEX]

Units

Each of the input values and the output values has an associated
unit. Selecting the down arrow next to the unit can modify these
units. When this is done, a list of available units appears. The user
can pick from this list. Note that the scroll bar indicates additional
units above or below the current view.

Also, under the Settings tab, there is a method to change the unit set
for the project that you are currently working on. You can also create
your own “Unit Set” in this area.

For a better understanding of the pressure units, please review the TECHNICAL APPENDIX section.
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 SECTION 10
[Return to INDEX]

Frequently Asked Question (FAQ)

• Selection Process
o Question: After entering all of the data, the program tells me that there are no pumps
for my application.
o Answer: The program has a large number of pumps to choose from. The most likely
reason is that one of the values was entered wrong. Please check the following.
• Make sure that the flow range under the Settings tab is large enough to
allow for pumps to be selected.
• Check to make sure that you don’t have data entered with an extra
period or comma
• Make sure that all of Condition #1 has the proper information
• Make sure that the pump tree in the INPUT Section has not been
deselected.
o Question: After running the selection, I only get one series of pumps.
o Answer: Check to see if the pump tree in the INPUT Section has been limited. You can
check “All Pumps” to be able to select from the entire tree again.
• Units
o Question: The unit that I need is not in the drop down.
o Answer: Send a request to have the unit considered for adding.
[email protected]
o Question: Why is there a “d” on the pressure units.
Circor Pump Selector Program – Help File | 1/4/2018

o Answer: The “d” is used to denote that the pressure is a differential pressure. See the
Technical Appendix for additional details.

26
 TECHNICAL APPENDIX
[Return to INDEX]

The following section contains information that is useful in proper pump selection. Each section should
be read carefully to insure that proper pump selections are made and to prevent unnecessary problems.

Pressure Terms & Reference Systems

[Return to INDEX]

Understanding the difference between "absolute", "gage" ("gauge") and

"differential" pressure is essential when dealing with pumps and/or pressure
reference systems.

Pressure is defined as the force a confined gas or liquid exerts on its

container. This force is equal in all directions.

We don't think about it often, but those of us who dwell on the surface of Earth live in a pressurized
atmosphere. That pressure is due to the weight of the air above us. Gravity is the invisible container
that keeps the air from dissipating into space. At sea level and standard atmospheric conditions, the
weight of the air, in English system units, exerts 14.696 pounds force on every square inch of Earth's
surface. This value is simply referred to as atmospheric pressure. The most common abbreviation for
pounds force per square inch is "psi" but you might also see "pounds/sq. in.", "pounds/inch2", "lbf/in2"
or "lb/in2", among others. All these terms mean the same thing.

Armed with the knowledge that atmospheric pressure is about 14.7 psi at sea level, you might question
why most pressure gages you see read 0 psi when they are exposed to atmospheric pressure (e.g., when
Circor Pump Selector Program – Help File | 1/4/2018

they are not attached to a pressurized container or system). Shouldn't they read 14.7 psi? The fact is,
some pressure gages do read 14.7 psi. Why? It is because there are two reference systems for pressure.

The "absolute" pressure reference system uses "absolute 0" as its reference regardless of its
units. Practically, "absolute 0" is the pressure in a perfect vacuum. In a vacuum, there are no forces
between the gaseous or liquid elements and their container because, by definition, there are no
elements present. Since there are no forces, there is no pressure. Since "0" (nothing) is as low a
pressure as you can reach, absolute pressures can never be negative numbers. A pressure gage using
the absolute system of pressure measurement would read about 14.7 psi at sea level. This is
abbreviated to 14.7 psia where the "a" stands for the "absolute" reference system.

27
 While the "absolute" pressure reference system is the most intuitive one, it is not the most prevalent
one in the world of pumps. That distinction goes to the "gage" reference system. In the "gage" system,
atmospheric pressure is set as 0 psi. This is abbreviated to 0 psig where the "g" stands for the "gage"
reference system. You can now see that 0 psig = 14.7 psia and that 0 psia = -14.7 psig. Regardless of the
pressure level involved, the difference between the two pressure measurement systems is always
14.696 psi.

It is important to understand the term "differential pressure" when dealing with pumps because it
determines the forces, torques, work, power, etc. that are involved during operation. The term
"differential pressure" simply refers to the difference between any two pressure values. Since it is a
difference, the reference system has no meaning. Hence, the difference between 20 psia and 15 psia is
5 psi, not 5 psia. Similarly, the difference between 20 psig and 15 psig is 5 psi, not 5psig.

You need to be careful when determining the differential pressure where mixed reference systems are
involved. Converting one of the values to the reference system of the other value is the best way to
proceed.

EXAMPLE

Given A particular pump has an inlet pressure of 5 psia and an outlet pressure of 250 psig.

Determine The differential pressure across the pump.

Method First, convert inlet pressure into same units as outlet pressure: 5 psia - 14.7 psi = -9.7 psig
Next, subtract outlet pressure from inlet pressure: 250 psig - (-9.7) psig

Result 259.7 psid

Circor Pump Selector Program – Help File | 1/4/2018

Some people prefer to add a "d" to pressure differential units to avoid any confusion with pressure
reference systems. Hence, 245 psi will sometimes be expressed as 245 psid. These two units mean the
exactly the same thing and are used interchangeably.

The "psi" pressure unit used in the paragraphs above is an English System unit. Other English system
units include "lbf/ft2", "inches of Hg" and "feet of water". Metric System units include "bar", "kg/cm2"
and "Mpa". The use of an "a" or "g" suffix is not universally accepted, so it is easy to get confused if you
are not familiar with working in these systems. Recognizing that a pressure value can not be fully
understood unless its reference system is understood should go a long way toward avoiding problems.

28
 Inlet Pressure Terms
[Return to INDEX]

Inlet pressure requirements are frequently misunderstood for all type

pumps. Commonly used terms include NIPR, NPSHR, vapor pressure, cavitation,
minimum required inlet pressure and available inlet pressure. The paragraphs
below attempt to remove some of the mystery.

Understanding the difference between "absolute", "gage" ("gauge") and "differential" pressure is
essential when dealing with inlet pressure terms. Please refer to the Help section on Pressure Terms &
Reference Systems. NIPR is the term the Hydraulic Institute uses for relating the inlet pressure capability
of positive displacement type rotary pumps. NIPR is the abbreviation for Net Inlet Pressure
Required. The most current Hydraulic Institute standard actually uses the term NPIPR, Net Positive Inlet
Pressure Required. We have chosen to stay with NIPR (affectionately referred to as "nipper"), the more
commonly accepted term. In the United States, NIPR is customarily expressed in "psi".

NIPR is defined by the Hydraulic Institute as "the pressure required, above liquid vapor pressure, to fill
each pumping chamber or cavity while open to the inlet chamber". Practically, it is the pressure above
the vapor pressure of a liquid that is required for a pump to operate without cavitation occurring. Since
it is a pressure above vapor pressure, NIPR can be considered a differential pressure. It is therefore
acceptable to express NIPR in "psid" units. (The WIPS program allows you to express NIPR in either
unit).

Vapor pressure is the pressure at which a liquid changes to vapor at a given temperature. It is always
expressed in the absolute or gage pressure measurement system and never as a differential
pressure. The higher a liquid's temperature, the higher its vapor pressure.

Cavitation is the rapid growth and collapse of small vapor bubbles within a liquid. It occurs when the
Circor Pump Selector Program – Help File | 1/4/2018

fluid reaches its boiling point. The point that boiling occurs for a fluid is a function of the pressure and
temperature. This information can be supplied by the fluid supplier.

Psuedo-cavitation is the collapse of small bubbles, due to entrained or dissolved gas in the fluid. The
symptoms are very similar to cavitation, sometimes making it difficult to distinguish the difference
between the two.

Cavitation occurs on the inlet side of a pump and is often characterized by buzzing and/or rumbling type
sounds that can sometimes be quite loud and/or erratic. Running a pump at operating conditions that
result in cavitation should be avoided not only because it can be noisy but because it can also result in
reduced pump performance, pump damage and/or reduced service life.

NPSHR is the term the Hydraulic Institute uses for relating the inlet pressure capability of centrifugal
type pumps. NPSHR is the abbreviation for Net Positive Suction Head Required. In the United States,
NPSHR is customarily expressed in feet of liquid. Centrifugal and positive displacement type pumps

29
 function very differently and their units are unlike. Only NIPR should be used for positive displacement
pumps.

One factor contributing to the confusion that often occurs with NIPR is that many people believe it is
equivalent to the "minimum required inlet pressure". The "minimum required inlet pressure" of a pump
is the minimum inlet pressure required at the centerline of a pump to avoid cavitation. It pertains to a
specific pump running at a specific set of operating conditions for a specific liquid. While NIPR is all that
a pump supplier can calculate, minimum required inlet pressure is a pump user's real
concern. Fortunately, getting from one term to the other is extremely easy. The minimum required inlet
pressure for a pump is simply its NIPR plus the vapor pressure of the liquid being pumped. (In fact, the
very reason that the term NIPR is used to rate pump inlet conditions is that it is independent of vapor
pressure, a value that is different for every liquid).

Another factor adding to the confusion that often occurs with NIPR is that many people believe its units
reference the "gage" or "absolute" system, e.g., "psia" units. This may occur because many common
liquids used in three screw pump applications have vapor pressures so close to 0 psia that they are
considered negligible. The fact of the matter is, NIPR needs to be expressed in "psi" because it is NOT
referenced to the gage or absolute system until vapor pressure is considered. Rather, it is a pressure
that needs to be added to the vapor pressure to get the "minimum required inlet pressure" (regardless
of whether it is expressed in "psig" or "psia").

The term "available inlet pressure" refers to the pressure that is available at the centerline of a pump at
its inlet end. In order for a pump to operate without cavitation, the available inlet pressure must be
equal to or greater than the minimum required inlet pressure.

EXAMPLE #1

Given The NIPR of a pump at a specific set of operating conditions is 8 psi (or 8 psid) and the vapor
pressure of the liquid being pumped is 2 psia at its operating temperature.
Circor Pump Selector Program – Help File | 1/4/2018

Determine The minimum required inlet pressure.

Result Min. Required Inlet Pressure = NIPR + Vapor Pressure = 8 psi + 2 psia = 10 psia.
EXAMPLE #2

Given The same pump used in EXAMPLE #1 has a centerline located 10 feet above the surface of the
liquid being pumped and its inlet line losses (from pipe friction, valves, inlet strainers/filters, heat
exchangers, etc.) add up to 2.5 psi. The specific gravity of the liquid is 0.85.
Determine If the pump will operate without cavitating.
Result 10 feet of liquid with a specific gravity of 0.85 = a lift loss of about 3.7 psi. Since atmospheric
pressure is about 14.7 psia (at sea level, less at higher elevations), the available inlet pressure at
the pump centerline is 14.7 psia - 3.7 psi - 2.5 psi = 8.5 psia. This pump will
cavitate. Why? Because the liquid's vapor pressure = 2 psia and the NIPR = 8 psi. This makes the
pump's minimum required inlet pressure = 10 psia. The available inlet pressure is only 8.5 psia. To
avoid cavitation with this pump, either the inlet line losses or the pump's height above the liquid
surface (or some combination of both) will need to be reduced until the available inlet pressure is
10 psia or higher. Alternatively, a pump could be selected with a NIPR no higher than 6.5 psi
(because 2 psia + 6.5 psi = 8.5 psia).

30
 Cavitation – Net Positive Inlet Pressure Required
[Return to INDEX]

Cavitation is the formation of vapor cavities in a liquid – i.e. small liquid-free zones ("bubbles" or "voids") – that are
the consequence of forces acting upon the liquid. It usually occurs when a liquid is subjected to rapid changes of
pressure that cause the formation of cavities where the pressure is relatively low. When subjected to higher
pressure, the voids implode and can generate small but intense shockwaves. Hardware damage can occur if these
implosions are too close to a surface.

Cavitation can, and often does, occur in any situation where liquid is moving in relation to a solid surface or a solid
surface is moving in relation to the liquid. Usually associated with powered, rotating equipment, cavitation also
occurs in stationary hydraulic structures involving both small and large scale flows.

The picture above demonstrates cavitation of the fluid at the tips of the propeller. The tips are
Circor Pump Selector Program – Help File | 1/4/2018

Moving at the highest velocity of all of the surfaces, so it is likely cavitation will begin at these locations.

The process of cavitation begins when the pressure in portions of the liquid decrease to a point low enough for the
fluid to change states, from a liquid to a gas. This occurs at the vapor pressure of the liquid.

Since there are many factors involved, it is too difficult to calculate the exact point that cavitation will occur,
however, it can be estimated with reasonable results.

Classical definition of vapor pressure includes:

• The pressure of a confined vapor in equilibrium with its liquid at a specified temperature and, thus, a measure of
a substance’s propensity to evaporate.
• That pressure exerted by the gaseous state of a fluid that is in equilibrium with its liquid phase. Vapor pressure
is that pressure at which a liquid begins to vaporize (turn to the state of a gas).

It is often useful to simply think of vapor pressure as the boiling pressure of a liquid, that is, the pressure at which a
liquid boils at a specific temperature and pressure.

31
 Relief Valve Considerations
[Return to INDEX]

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. A Positive Displacement
Pump operating against a closed discharge valve will continue to produce flow until the pressure
in the discharge line stalls the motor, bursts the line, damages the pump or any combination of
the three.

A relief or safety valve on the discharge side of the Positive Displacement Pump is therefore
strongly recommended. The relief valve can be internal or external to the pump. Some pumps
are designed to have an optional built in relief valve. This internal valve should, in general, only
be used as a safety precaution to protect personnel and system components. An external relief
valve installed in the discharge line, with a return line back to the suction line or supply tank, is
still recommended.

The Selector Program allows for three configurations as shown below.

External Relief Valve Returning to Tank

Circor Pump Selector Program – Help File | 1/4/2018

32
 External Relief Valve Returning to Near Pump Inlet

Internal Relief Valve Returning to Pump Inlet

Optional Boost Pump

Circor Pump Selector Program – Help File | 1/4/2018

33
 Pumping Standards and Tolerances
[Return to INDEX]

Circor is a global brand. Pumps are sold across the globe, so it becomes
important to understand the standards used in different regions of the
world to better understand the values being presented. This section will
try to help explain the differences in the standards as well as how Circor
transitions between these standards.

The table on the next page represents the major standards that can be selected in the program. The
table also gives a brief description of the flow rate and required power tolerances allowed by the
standard. When selecting a pump or comparing competitive values, it is important to know what
standard was used to produce the values to be able to make a direct comparison of results. The selector
program shows the standard being used on the output data sheets and graphs. Care should be taken
when selecting a standard (under the application tab) to make sure that the appropriate methods of
adjustments, if required, are applied.
Circor Pump Selector Program – Help File | 1/4/2018

In the case of API 2nd and 3rd Editions, the program also filters out pumps that are not sold per these
standards. These standards should only be selected if a genuine requirement is present. Adhering to
the API standard adds additional hardware and effort to achieve and therefor the cost of a pump that is
required to meet API 676 is higher.

34
 Major Standards Used in the Selector Program

Standard Rated Flow Rate Ranges

Hydraulic Institute -0%
100
𝐿𝑒𝑣𝑒𝑙 𝐴 → + 1+(𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑠𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑡𝑜 𝑔𝑝𝑚 ×𝑄 0.33 (See Note)
𝑅𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑑 )
100
𝐿𝑒𝑣𝑒𝑙 𝐵 → + 1+(𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑠𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑡𝑜 𝑔𝑝𝑚 ×𝑄 0.40 (See Note)
𝑅𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑑 )

API 676 2nd Edition -0%,

+3.0% @100% Speed (See Note)
+3.3% @ 90% Speed (See Note)
+5.0% @ 90% Speed (See Note)
+10.0% @ 90% Speed (See Note)
API 676 3rd Edition -0%,
+3.0% @100% Speed (See Note)
+3.0% @ 90% Speed (See Note)
+5.0% @ 90% Speed (See Note)
+10.0% @ 90% Speed (See Note)
VDMA Rated Flow Rate
Group I
• ≤ 100 l/hr (0.1 m3/hr, 0.44 gpm) ±10% (See Note)
• >100 l/hr and ≤ 1000 l/hr (1.0 m3/hr, 4.403 gpm) ±5% (See Note)
• > 1000 l/hr ±5% (See Note)
Group II
• ≤ 100 l/hr (0.1 m3/hr, 0.44 gpm) -10%, + 20% (See Note)
• >100 l/hr and ≤ 1000 l/hr (1.0 m3/hr, 4.403 gpm) ±10% (See Note)
• > 1000 l/hr -5%, +10% (See Note)
Note: Circor adheres to the minimum flow required intended by the pump standards listed, however the
upper limit of flow is not followed. Restricting the flow range creates additional effort while producing
the pump and will increase the cost of the pump. Contact the factory if you have further questions or
Circor Pump Selector Program – Help File | 1/4/2018

your application requires a flow range restriction.

Standard Rated Required Power Ranges

Hydraulic Institute +0%, - No Limit
API 676 2nd Edition +0%, - No Limit
API 676 3rd Edition +4%, - No Limit (Upper limit is not used in selector program calculations)
VDMA Group I
• ≤ 5 kW (6.70 HP) +25%, No Lower Limit
• >5 kW and ≤ 10 kW (13.41 HP) +15%, No Lower Limit
• >10 kW and ≤ 50 kW (67.05 HP) +10%, No Lower Limit
• > 50 kW +5%, No Lower Limit
Group II
• ≤ 5 kW (6.70 HP) +25%, No Lower Limit
• >5 kW and ≤ 10 kW (13.41 HP) +20%, No Lower Limit
• >10 kW and ≤ 50 kW (67.05 HP) +15%, No Lower Limit
• > 50 kW +10%, No Lower Limit

35
 Circor also manufactures pumps around the world. In general, the companies use the standard relative
to the region they are in to develop their pump ratings. The Selector program has pumps that are
manufactured in many different regions and this creates the need to be able to convert from one rating
system to another when appropriate. The VDMA rating system is a “stepped” system, meaning that
depending on the value that is being calculated also determines the range that is appropriate. Since the
Hydraulic Institute and API methods are limit methods, meaning that the range can’t go beyond a set
point, the conversion between the two is not straight forward. Circor has developed a method to
transition between these points. Also note that as the flow approaches theoretical, converting from
Hydraulic Institute and API to VDMA using the numbers from the chart would produce values that would
state the pump would flow more than theoretical and thus make the volumetric efficiency higher than
100%.

EXAMPLE

𝑄𝑇ℎ𝑒𝑜𝑟𝑒𝑡𝑖𝑐𝑎𝑙 = 100 𝑔𝑝𝑚

𝑄𝐻𝐼−𝐷𝑒𝑙 = 97 𝑔𝑝𝑚
VDMA allows the flow rate to be stated as 5% higher than the absolute minimum.

𝑄𝑉𝐷𝑀𝐴−𝐷𝑒𝑙 = 𝑄𝐻𝐼−𝐷𝑒𝑙 ×1.05 = 97×1.05 = 101.85 𝑔𝑝𝑚

𝑄𝐷𝑒𝑙 101.85
𝛾𝑣𝑜𝑙 = = = 101.8% 𝑉𝑜𝑙𝑢𝑚𝑒𝑡𝑟𝑖𝑐 𝐸𝑓𝑓𝑖𝑐𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑦
𝑄𝑇ℎ𝑒𝑜 100

It is not possible to be over 100% efficient, so it is not possible to simply convert from HI to VDMA using
a simple percentage, nor does it make logical sense to convert back the other way in areas where the
delivered flow rate is approaching the
theoretical flow rate. In a similar manner, the 110%

power conversion can also be misleading in 105%

areas where the required power is approaching 100%

Circor Pump Selector Program – Help File | 1/4/2018

the Oil Power. To minimize the effect of this 95%

issue, Circor has developed a method that 90%

Volumetric Eff (%)

prevents the problem in these ranges. The 85% HI

VDMA

image below shows an example of what the 80% New VDMA

program will typically do to adjust for this issue. 75%

70%

As can be seen by the graph, using the 65%

conversion method will transition the HI rated 60%

0 100 200 300 400 500 600 700 800 900 1000
line to the VDMA rated line below the 100% Differential Pressure (psid)

efficiency point. The Required Power uses a

similar method.

As shown in the standards table, the VDMA also changes the range based on the rated flow or the rated
required power. When the program creates graphs, the line may pass through one of these transition
ranges (Power more often than Flow). When this occurs, a slight change in slope of the curve can occur.

36
 Motor/Driver Selection – Power & Torque Values
[Return to INDEX]

The selector program provides multiple values for power and torque
required to drive the pumps that are selected. This section is to help
better understand what the values mean and how they should be used
with sizing a motor/driver for the application. Some of the results are at
Relief Valve (RV) settings.

• Required Input Power & Required Input Torque

Calculated values are the required power and torque to operate the pump at the condition defined
in the input column. These values do not contain a safety margin nor do they account for the RV
pressures.
• RV Set Power & RV Set Torque
Calculated values are the required power and torque to operate the pump at the condition as
defined in the input column, however, the RV set pressure is now used to determine the value
presented.
• RV Accum Power & RV Accum Torque
Calculated values are the required power and torque to operate the pump at the condition as
defined in the input column, however, the RV full accumulation pressure is now used to determine
the value presented.
• Motor Sizing Row
o Under the input tab, there are multiple “Drive Sizing Options”. A sizing method should be
selected relative to the end users preferences.
▪ Sized Per Maximum Operating Condition
▪ Sized Per 110% of Maximum Operating Condition
▪ Sized Per Maximum Relief Valve Set Pressure
▪ Sized Per 110% Maximum Relief Valve Set Pressure
Circor Pump Selector Program – Help File | 1/4/2018

▪ Sized Per Maximum Relief Valve Full Accumulation Cond

▪ Sized Per API 676 (Max RV Accumulation Cond)
o The row titles for Motor Power and Motor Torque under the Output tab and Additional
Output tab will be modified to agree with the method selected for sizing.
o This value is used to select the motor/dirver to be used. Only the maximum value will be
displayed under the condition that it occurs. If more than one condition provides the same
maximum value, then the value will be displayed at each of those particular conditions.

37
 What Effects Efficiency of Positive Displacement Pumps
[Return to INDEX]

VOLUMETRIC EFFICIENCY

Positive Displacement (PD) pumps have a displacement that is based on geometry. This displacement
per revolution of the pump can be calculated very precisely. This makes it easy to calculate the liquid
displaced for any given speed. This value is called “Theoretical Flow Rate”.

𝑇ℎ𝑒𝑜𝑟𝑒𝑡𝑖𝑐𝑎𝑙 𝐹𝑙𝑜𝑤 𝑅𝑎𝑡𝑒 = 𝑇ℎ𝑒𝑜𝑟𝑒𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑐𝑎𝑙 𝐷𝑖𝑠𝑝𝑙𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡×𝑟𝑝𝑚

PD Pumps also have internal slip (leakage between the pumping elements) that reduces the flow rate.
Typically, this slip flow does not change with changes in speed if all other parameters are the same.
However, it is a dependent on differential pressure and viscosity. Because of this, volumetric efficiency
is improved at higher speeds as shown by the equation below.

𝑆𝑙𝑖𝑝 𝐹𝑙𝑜𝑤 = 𝑓(𝑉𝑖𝑠𝑐𝑜𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑦, 𝐷𝑖𝑓𝑓𝑒𝑟𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑖𝑎𝑙 𝑃𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑠𝑢𝑟𝑒)

𝑇ℎ𝑒𝑜𝑟𝑒𝑡𝑖𝑐𝑎𝑙 𝐹𝑙𝑜𝑤 𝑅𝑎𝑡𝑒 − 𝑆𝑙𝑖𝑝 𝐹𝑙𝑜𝑤

𝐸𝑓𝑓𝑉𝑜𝑙 =
𝑇ℎ𝑒𝑜𝑟𝑒𝑡𝑖𝑐𝑎𝑙 𝐹𝑙𝑜𝑤 𝑅𝑎𝑡𝑒

Now that the general equations are understood, the effects of each variable involved in the shape of the
Volumetric Efficiency curve can be reviewed. These are shaft speed, differential pressure and viscosity
for a given pump.

Varying Speed Only

With a fixed differential pressure and viscosity, the slip equation results in a constant. The
equation above results in a volumetric efficiency curve as shown below. The graph shows that
the Volumetric Efficiency drops very quickly as speed approaches zero.
Circor Pump Selector Program – Help File | 1/4/2018

Volumetric Efficiency vs Speed for PD Pumps

120%

100%

80%

60%
Volumetric Efficiency

Curve Assumes constant Differential

40%
Pressure and constant Viscosity.

20%

0%
0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500 4000

-20%

Curve Crosses over 0% when Slip

-40% Flow and Theoretical Flow are equal.

-60%
Pump Shaft Speed (rpm)

38
 Varying Differential Pressure Only

Exploring further, the results when only differential pressure varies can be determined as well.
As shown in the curve below, the Volumetric Efficiency decreases as the differential pressure is
increased. As the pressure increases, however, the rate of change in volumetric efficiency
reduces.

Volumetric Efficiency vs Differential Pressure for PD Pumps

120%
Curve Crosses approaches 100% as
differential pressure approaches 0 psid.
100%

80%
Volumetric Efficiency

60%
Curve Assumes constant Shaft Speed
and constant Viscosity.
40%

20%

0%
0 1000 2000 3000 4000 5000 6000 7000 8000
Differential Pressure (psid)

Varying Viscosity Only

Looking at the last variable, Viscosity, we see that as the Viscosity increases, the volumetric
efficiency increases. This is because the internal slip of the pump is reducing.
Circor Pump Selector Program – Help File | 1/4/2018

Volumetric Efficiency vs Fluid Viscosity for PD Pumps

120%

100%

80%
Curve Assumes constant Differential
Pressure and constant Speed.
Volumetric Efficiency

60%

40%

20%

0%
0 100 200 300 400 500 600 700 800 900

-20%
Curve Crosses over 0% when Slip
Flow and Theoretical Flow are equal.
-40%
Viscosity (SSU)

39
 OVERALL EFFICIENCY

Overall Efficiency is more complicated because it is a combination of Volumetric Efficiency and internal
friction losses. To understand this better, we will first start with the general equation for Overall
Efficiency and then break it down to the individual variables that affect the shape of the curve.

𝑂𝑖𝑙 𝐻𝑜𝑟𝑠𝑒 𝑃𝑜𝑤𝑒𝑟𝐷𝑒𝑙𝑖𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑒𝑑

𝑂𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝐸𝑓𝑓𝑖𝑐𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑦 =
𝐵𝑟𝑎𝑘𝑒 𝐻𝑜𝑟𝑠𝑒 𝑃𝑜𝑤𝑒𝑟

Oil Horse Power Delivered is the actual work done on the fluid that is delivered. From section above, we
understand slip flow. Work is being done on the fluid that is slipping inside of the pump as well as that
done on the fluid that is delivered from the pump. The work done on the slip flow is waste.

𝑂𝑖𝑙 𝐻𝑜𝑟𝑠𝑒 𝑃𝑜𝑤𝑒𝑟𝐷𝑒𝑙𝑖𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑒𝑑 = 𝐾×𝐷𝑒𝑙𝑖𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑒𝑑 𝐹𝑙𝑜𝑤 𝑅𝑎𝑡𝑒×𝐷𝑖𝑓𝑓𝑒𝑟𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑖𝑎𝑙 𝑃𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑠𝑢𝑟𝑒

𝑂𝑖𝑙 𝐻𝑜𝑟𝑠𝑒 𝑃𝑜𝑤𝑒𝑟𝐷𝑒𝑙𝑖𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑒𝑑 = 𝐾×(𝑇ℎ𝑒𝑜 𝐷𝑖𝑠𝑝×𝑆𝑝𝑒𝑒𝑑 − 𝑆𝑙𝑖𝑝 𝐹𝑙𝑜𝑤)×∆𝑃

Brake Horse Power is the work that is done on the entire Theoretical Flow rate as well as the frictional
losses inside of the pump (Or Mechanical Loss). This is basically the amount of power that needs to be
done to accomplish the resulting power accomplished (Oil Horse Power). The frictional losses are called
Mechanical Loss. The Brake Horse Power can be summed up with the following expressions.

𝑇ℎ𝑒𝑜𝑟𝑒𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑐𝑎𝑙 𝑂𝑖𝑙 𝑃𝑜𝑤𝑒𝑟 = 𝐾×𝑇ℎ𝑒𝑜𝑟𝑒𝑡𝑖𝑐𝑎𝑙 𝐹𝑙𝑜𝑤 𝑅𝑎𝑡𝑒×∆𝑃

𝑀𝑒𝑐ℎ𝑎𝑛𝑖𝑐𝑎𝑙 𝐿𝑜𝑠𝑠 = 𝑓(𝑠ℎ𝑎𝑓𝑡 𝑠𝑝𝑒𝑒𝑑, 𝑣𝑖𝑠𝑐𝑜𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑦)

𝑆𝑙𝑖𝑝 𝐹𝑙𝑜𝑤 = 𝑓(𝑣𝑖𝑠𝑐𝑜𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑦, 𝑑𝑖𝑓𝑓𝑒𝑟𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑖𝑎𝑙 𝑝𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑠𝑢𝑟𝑒)

𝐾×(𝑇ℎ𝑒𝑜 𝐷𝑖𝑠𝑝×𝑆𝑝𝑒𝑒𝑑 − 𝑆𝑙𝑖𝑝 𝐹𝑙𝑜𝑤)×∆𝑃

𝑂𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝐸𝑓𝑓𝑖𝑐𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑦 =
𝐾×𝑇ℎ𝑒𝑜 𝐷𝑖𝑠𝑝×𝑆𝑝𝑒𝑒𝑑×∆𝑃 + 𝑀𝑒𝑐ℎ𝑎𝑛𝑖𝑐𝑎𝑙 𝐿𝑜𝑠𝑠
Circor Pump Selector Program – Help File | 1/4/2018

The result is that Overall Efficiency is a function of Speed, Differential Pressure and Viscosity.

𝑂𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝐸𝑓𝑓𝑖𝑐𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑦 = 𝑓(𝑠ℎ𝑎𝑓𝑡 𝑠𝑝𝑒𝑒𝑑, 𝑑𝑖𝑓𝑓𝑒𝑟𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑖𝑎𝑙 𝑝𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑠𝑢𝑟𝑒, 𝑣𝑖𝑠𝑐𝑜𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑦)

The complexity of the equation makes it possible for the resulting Overall Efficiency curve to change
direction as Differential Pressure Increases. In other words, at low differential pressure the Overall
Efficiency will start to increase as Differential Pressure increase, but will then reach an inflection point
and start to decrease as the Differential Pressure continues to increase.

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 The graph below shows the result for four different operating conditions. Some items to note.

• Condition #1 – The Overall Efficiency starts to increase as pressure increases, but there comes a
point where it “knees” over and starts to drop in value. In fact, the curve crosses over the other
Overall Efficiency curves. This curve is at low speed and low viscosity where volumetric
efficiencies start to decline very quickly compared to the higher speeds.
• Condition #4 – Note how flat the Volumetric Efficiency curve is as differential pressure increases.
This allows the Overall Efficiency to continue to increase throughout the entire differential
pressure range. This is because the conditions are at higher speeds and higher viscosities than
the other Overall Efficiency curves.
• The remaining curves show the effects of these variables as we transition speed and viscosity.
Circor Pump Selector Program – Help File | 1/4/2018

Conclusion: The actual Volumetric and/or Overall Efficiency are a function of Speed, Differential
Pressure and Viscosity for any PD pump. Because of these parameters and the shapes of the curves, it is
not possible to define a required efficiency over a large range of operating conditions for a single pump.

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 Viscosity versus Temperature
The Issue of Prediction (Or Calculation)
[Return to INDEX]

There are many standard fluids that have a “rated” viscosity. It is easy to think of this point as an
absolute value of the fluid at a given temperature. For example, ISO Viscosity Grade (VG) oils are
numbered based on the “nominal” viscosity of the fluid in centistokes (cSt) at 40°C (104°F). There are
two things that we need to consider when trying to predict the viscosity of a fluid.

1. What is the actual allowable range of viscosity at the defined ISO VG point of 40°C?
2. What is the relationship between change in viscosity and temperature change?

First, let us look at the allowable defined range of a liquid. The chart below shows different “Grade
Systems” and the allowable range of viscosity for the liquid at the 40°C temperature. Looking at ISO VG
32 fluid, we see that it can range from about 29 cSt to 37 cSt. This is about a 25% variation that is within
the Grade allowance. As you can also see in the chart, some of the other grades have even larger spans
of viscosity.
Circor Pump Selector Program – Help File | 1/4/2018

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 What about viscosities at temperatures other than 40°C? To calculate the new viscosity of a liquid at a
different temperature, we need to know the “Viscosity Index” (VI). In simple terms, the VI is the slope of
the line created when we plot viscosity versus temperature. The graph below shows some typical VI
values, however these values also have a range that needs to be considered.

The viscosity versus temperature equation is a little more complicated than a straight line (See section
at the end of this topic), however, we can illustrate the effects of combining the viscosity range and VI
variation in a simplified manner. In the chart below, the ISO VG 32 range at 40°C, highlighted in yellow,
is used to set the values. Using slightly different VI values, we get a variation in viscosity as we move
away from the standard 40°C rating point.

Temperature Viscosity (cSt)

Circor Pump Selector Program – Help File | 1/4/2018

°F °C Sample 1 Sample 2
14 -10 634.31 984.97
32 0 275.73 405.82
50 10 136.55 192.11
68 20 75.15 101.78
86 30 45.07 59.10
104 40 29.00 37.00
122 50 19.31 24.03
140 60 13.56 16.52
158 70 9.94 11.90
176 80 7.56 8.92
194 90 5.93 6.90
212 100 4.77 5.49
230 110 3.93 4.47
248 120 3.29 3.72
266 130 2.80 3.14
284 140 2.42 2.69
302 150 2.12 2.34
320 160 1.87 2.06
338 170 1.67 1.83
356 180 1.50 1.64

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 The table shows that a large difference can occur at low temperatures and a much smaller difference at
higher temperatures. It would be easy to draw a conclusion that the effect is minimal at high
temperatures, but we need to remember that the lubrication of pumping elements at these very low
viscosities determines whether or not some pump types will fail. Also at these low viscosities, slip flow
changes very quickly with small changes in viscosity depending on differential pressure across the pump.

At the same time, at high viscosities, it might be easy to assume that it does not make any difference.
However, it will create a significant change in the motor power requirement to drive the pump.

The table below shows the results of the variations shown in the table above at both high (100°C) and at
low (0°C) temperatures. Note that at the lower temperature, the power results can vary by almost 20%.
At high temperatures, the flow rate is changing by only about 1%, however, the ability of the liquid to
support the parts (data not shown) is about 13%. This could make the difference between a pump
failing in a short period of time or lasting for an indefinite amount of time.
Circor Pump Selector Program – Help File | 1/4/2018

Conclusion: Although some companies choose to “predict” the viscosity for “standard” liquids, it is quite
possible that the information will lead to problems with the pump or the selection of the pump driver.
The viscosity should always be researched to get the best possible information for any given application.
It is understood that this information is not always available. The ability to predict performance is only
as good as the values used. If bad assumptions are used, undesirable results may occur.

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 Gas Entrainment Measurement Method
[Return to INDEX]

Tools Required:

• Clean 100ml Centrifuge Type Beaker

• Clamp to fit Beaker
• Pail or Bucket (With Water)
• Bucket or Container for waste oil
• Needle Valve
• “U”-Shaped steel tubing
• Flexible Hose (Connected to representative area)

Note: Gases tend to stratify in liquids. Because of this, the amounts of gas in the oil pan will vary with
height. Care should be taken to get the liquid/gas mixture from a point that represents the liquid passing
through the system. Downstream of the pump works best.

The method described below assumes that the liquid is lighter than water.

Method:

Step 1

Place the beaker in the water open end down. Turn the beaker over to allow air to escape and
water to fill the beaker. Be careful not to allow any pumped liquid on the surface to be drawn into
the beaker. Examine the beaker to make sure that no air or pumped liquid is trapped inside. Use
the clamp to hold the beaker so that the opening is below the water line, but the 100ml mark is
above the water line. The 100ml mark should be positioned in such a way that it can be read while
performing the operation.
Step 2
Circor Pump Selector Program – Help File | 1/4/2018

Connect the hose, needle valve, and “U”-shaped tubing to the “source” location. Run the system
to achieve a stead-state condition. Place the end of the “U”-shaped tubing into the “waste” bucket.
Open the valve and purge the system of all pre-existing liquid. Depending on the size and length
of hose, this will require a different amount of volume to be expelled.

Step 3
Once the liquid is coming out of the “U”-shaped tubing is representative of the oil in the system,
close the valve and quickly place the end of the “U”-shaped tube under the beaker and open the
valve. Fill the beaker until the liquid/gas mixture reaches the 100ml mark on the beaker. Take
care not to under fill or overfill the beaker. Close the valve and remove the “U”-shaped tubing
from the water.

Step 4
Allow the beaker to set until all of the gas has settled at the top. The percentage of air can then be
read direct from the beaker.

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 Drawing:

Supply From Source

Oil/Air Mixture Oil/Air Level Needle Valve

Oil/Air Drops

Water

100 ml

Water

Picture:

This picture shows the arrangement used for measuring the gas entrainment percentage.
Circor Pump Selector Program – Help File | 1/4/2018

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 Help File Revision History
[Return to INDEX]

Date Brief Description Modified By

January 3, 2012 Preliminary Release – “Under Construction” Bret Simoneaux
April 5, 2013 Updated to add new features and changes to the program Bret Simoneaux
April 23, 2013 Added Usage Policy Bret Simoneaux
May 23, 2013 Added Additional Information about gas entrainment and added measurement Bret Simoneaux
method
August 20, 2013 Added Information about relief valve and added Usage Policy Bret Simoneaux
August 26, 2013 Added Pumping Standards Appendix Information Bret Simoneaux
September 6, 2013 Added Motor Power and Torque Clarification Bret Simoneaux
September 10, 2013 Added Cavitation Information Bret Simoneaux
January 16, 2014 Update Driver Sizing Information, Added Viscosity vs Temperature section and Bret Simoneaux
Added “What Effects Efficiency of PD Pumps section.
January 4, 2018 Changed from Colfax (Fluid Handling) to Circor Bret Simoneaux
Circor Pump Selector Program – Help File | 1/4/2018

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