If your business requires a piston or plunger style pump then you will probably be looking for a reciprocating pump. What is a reciprocating pump? How do they work and what are they used for?
When we talk about reciprocating pumps, we are actually referring to a classification of positive-displacement pumps which includes piston, plunger and diaphragm pumps. They are sometimes referred to as constant volume pumps because they have the ability to deliver a very precise amount.
They work based on the principle of a piston moving in backward and forward directions. This is different to a centrifugal pump which uses kinetic energy of the impeller to carry the liquid or substance from one place to another.
How does a Reciprocating pump work?
Reciprocating pumps work by a piston that travels in a cylinder moving up and down. As the piston moves in the upward direction within the cylinder, a liquid is discharged at a preset pressure. The pressure can be set by the delivery valve. Liquid is ejected at the discharge site of the pump.
The science behind reciprocating pumps tells us that these devices change the mechanical energy of the fluid into hydraulic energy or pressure.
Diaphragm Pumps
Diaphragm pumps are a types of reciprocating pump which are air driven and are very compact. These types of pumps are safer and ideal for transporting hazardous or toxic liquids.
What businesses use Reciprocating pumps?
So, what are reciprocating pumps used for? Where might you find a reciprocating pump in business and industry? Reciprocating pumps are most commonly used in a situation where a very precise amount of fluid needs to be delivered.
This means that they are used extensively in the oil and gas industry, including production, offshore oil and disposal. A reciprocating pump would be very effective in the dispensing and disposal of chemicals and pastes. Therefore, they can even be found in the cosmetics and pharmaceutical industry.
However, the most common reciprocating pump that you will recognize is the bicycle pump - used to pump air into bike tires.
What are the advantages of Reciprocating pumps?
Reciprocating pumps have many advantages. We have already mentioned their precision. They are actually one of the oldest and most proven types of pump (think back to the pistons used in steam engines). Reciprocal pumps are very durable and efficient. They are also perfect for high pressure, low flow applications.
On the downside, they can often require a lot of maintenance and can be relatively short-lived, but they get the job done!
Different types of Reciprocating pumps
There are many different types of reciprocating pumps. The most common are single-acting and double acting reciprocating pumps.
Single Acting Reciprocating Pumps
Single acting reciprocating pumps have just one suction valve and one discharge valve. Suction happens when it moves backwards and discharge happens when it moves forwards.
Double Acting Reciprocating Pumps
With a double acting reciprocating pump there are two suction and delivery valves. When the piston is moved forward or backward suction and expulsion happen at the same time. Therefore it needs two inflow and outflow pipes.
You can also get with one, two, three or more cylinders (simplex, duplex and triplex).
If your company is looking for a good reciprocating pump, then have a look at our recommendations below.
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