Basic information required for pump selections
Basic information required for all pump selections
With the following information, we are able to make a basic pump selection;
Liquid type
Knowing the liquid that you are pumping is crucial as it let us to ensure that we offer a pump constructed from compatible materials; so that can avoiding potential corrosion and abrasion issues. What is the chemical make up? Are there any solids present, if so what is the maximum particle size and concentration?
Capacity (Flowrate)
This will determine the size of the pump required. A higher flow rate requires a larger pump.
Pressure (Head)
The pressure at the inlet and outlet of the pump will determine the type and often the size of pump required. Knowing the pressure you are pumping against let us to choose the most suitable pump technology. If you are unsure of your differential pressure; we can help to calculate it
Viscosity
There are many units of measurement for viscosity however we tend to work in centipoise cP or centistokes cSt. Viscosity is a measure of a liquid’s resistance to deformation caused by stress, or more plainly; the ‘thickness’ of a liquid. Viscosity is typically higher for thicker liquids, for example; water has a viscosity of 1 cp at 20 degC whereas honey has a viscosity of approximately 10000 cp. Viscosity affects the type and size of the pump required, with higher viscosities usually requiring positive displacement units running at lower speeds rather than centrifugal pump solutions.
Density
The density or specific gravity of the pumping liquid at the operating temperature will affect how much power is required to achieve the required duty. This in turn will help us size a suitable drive or motor to operate the pump without a problem.
Temperature
This can affect the materials of construction for the pump, and the type of pump offered.
Additional information
To provide a more personalised selection, the following information is helpful to have;
Motor requirements
Electric or air? If electric, what voltage and frequency is required?
Control
Do you require any special controls for the pump? Will you be running at a fixed speed or is a variable speed drive required?
Usage cycle
Will the pump be run continuously or intermittently?
Place of use
Will the pump be operated in an ATEX area? If so, what classification is required?
Suction set up
How will you be feeding the pump?
Vapour pressure
Do you know the vapour pressure of your process liquid? This is more relevant when pumping at elevated temperatures.
Certification
Is any certification required with the pump? For example, are you operating in the food industry and need to comply with FDA guidelines?