Pumps

Pump Features

Pumps can possess a number of features that define or enhance their performance or provide additional functionality for certain applications.

Accessories

Pumps may incorporate a number of accessories or additions which perform special functions or aid in certain applications.

  • Back-up battery power - Pump is equipped with a battery as a back-up source of power. The battery is not intended for regular use, but for critical applications wherethe pump must continue running in the event of a power failure or disruption.
  • Control panel - Pump is equipped with a control panel for display and adjustment of parameters such as flow, pressure, and any safety shutoff features.
  • Level (on/off) control device - Pump includes a device that turns the pump on and off depending on the fluid level of the media.
  • Plug-in - Pump is supplied with a power cord that can plug into a power source.
  • Pressure gauge - Pump is equipped with a dial or digital readout of pressure level(s), typically at the outlet.
  • Strainer / filter - Pump has a strainer or filter to collect solids before they pass through the pump.
  • Thermal overload protection - Pump motor has a device to shut off the pump in the event the motor becomes too hot.

Construction Features

Some features of pumps are based on the design and construction of the pump and its components.

  • Belt-driven - The pump shaft is driven by a belt.
  • Close coupled - The pump-end of these pumps is mounted directly on the motor shaft.
  • End / bottom suction - Pumps which have centerline suction and discharge.
  • Explosion proof - Pump which prevents internal or external explosions by enclosing parts that could ignite either the transfer media or the surrounding atmosphere.
  • Frame mounted - Pumps which have the pump-end mounted on a bearing frame that is coupled to the motor.
  • Horizontal construction - Pump stator or rotor assembly lies horizontally, and the media is pumped horizontally through the pump. This is the alternative to a vertical pumping orientation.
  • Jacketed - Pumps feature jacketed flanges, casing, and pump head. These are used for applications where pump head temperature control is critical.
  • Multi-stage - Pumps are constructed with multiple pump stages (multiple impellers or pumping chambers). Compressed fluid goes from the initial stage to successive chambers or stages of pressurization, allowing the pump to generate higher-pressure levels than possible with single-stage pumps.
  • Portable - Pump is packaged for easy transportation.
  • Reversible - Pumps have the ability to pump in either direction with equal efficiency.
  • Seal-less - Pump contains no cups, packing, or mechanical seals; all sliding and rotating parts are isolated from the pumped fluid.
  • Self-priming - Pump creates and maintains a sufficient vacuum level to draw fluid into the inlet (priming the pump) with no external assistance.
  • Vertical orientation - Pump stator or rotor assembly is vertically upright, and the media is pumped vertically through the pump. This is the alternative to ahorizontal pumping orientation.

Materials

Pumps may feature specific materials of construction or may exhibit specific qualities defined by the materials used.

  • Corrosion resistant - Pump is constructed from corrosion resistant materials, such as stainless steel, for withstanding chemical attack or corrosion from the environment or pumping media.
  • Hygienic - Pump is constructed from hygienic materials, and is fully sealed to eliminate leakage and contamination of pumped materials.
  • Plastic - Pump is designed to move fluids that would corrode or damage other types of pumps. They provide a broad chemical resistance and are less costly and lighter weight than metal pumps.
  • Sanitary - Pump is used to transport food and agricultural materials in operations such as food processing that require cleanliness. Sanitary pumps arespecifically designed to meet strict guidelines established for sanitary process applications, including FDA, USDA, and 3-A.
  • Washdown - Pump is designed to perform better in wet environments, including food processing plants and dairies as well as other high humidity areas.

Performance Features

Some pump features define the performance aspects of pumps.

  • Adjustable speed - Pump which operates at speeds which can be selected by an operator.
  • Continuous duty - Pump which is rated to run continuously; it can maintain performance specifications at 100% duty cycle.
  • Grinding mechanism - Pump has integral grinding mechanisms in the suction port to grind garbage, sewage, rubber goods, etc. to very small pieces and transfer themunder pressure. Pumps with this feature are often referred to as grinder pumps.
  • Non-clog - Pump is configured to pump viscous, sticky, or stringy materials that would clog other types of pumps.
  • Run dry capable - Pump can operate with no pumped fluid or external lubrication for an extended period of time without damaging the equipment or system.
  • Submersible- Pump can be mounted into a tank or reservoir with the liquid media. The pump's motor is normally sealed in an oil filled cavity that isprotected from contact with the liquid.
  • Top suction - Pump is capable of drawing fluid from the top of a tank rather than from the bottom of a reservoir.

Power Sources

Pumps can also feature a specific type of power source used to drive the pumping mechanism.

  • AC powered - Pump uses alternating current (AC) from motor or plug-in power as a power source for operation.
  • DC powered - Pump uses direct current (DC) from motor, battery, or solar power as a power source for operation.
  • Magnetic drive pumps - Sealless pump that uses a coaxial magnetic coupling to transmit torque to an impeller. A standard electric motor drives a set of permanentmagnets that are mounted on a carrier or drive assembly.
  • Manual (hand and foot) - Pump is manually operated, driven by hand or foot via a handle or lever. They are typically piston or plunger pumps.