A piston pump is renowned as one of the most powerful pumping technologies and the heart of the hydraulic system. This device is used to handle fluid processes and highly viscous materials. In this post, we will learn more about this device, its applications, and its benefits.
What is a Piston Pump?
Piston or plunger pumps are the most widely used positive displacement pumps. The piston pump is a powerful and simple mechanism. These pumps have a chamber, a piston, and a shaft. Also known as a reciprocating pump, a piston pump has a high-pressure seal that reciprocates with the piston. This positive displacement pump uses a piston, diaphragm, otherwise plunger for moving liquids. In simple terms, this type of pump works to move liquids or compress gases. It can handle high-pressure operations without affecting the flow rate. The most common applications of piston pumps include water irrigation or delivery systems.
The typical piston pump is a rotary pump that operates the piston via a wheel or revolving shaft. When the air pressure exceeds the opening valve spring, the reduced media can be routed through the open exit valve. When the piston is brought back up, it opens the intake valve and closes the outlet valve, allowing suction to be utilized to bring in extra media for compression. An electric motor, steam, turbine, or hydraulic system can power a piston pump.
Applications of Piston Pump
The different types of piston pumps are axial pumps, lift pumps, force pumps, and radial piston-pump. These pumps have a range of applications and are used in operations where a low flow rate of a liquid is required at high pressure within an application, such as seawater through a filter for reverse osmosis, or chemical injection where a high-pressure pump is required to overcome existing line pressure. To choose the right pump for a particular application, specifications such as the rate of flow, power rating, horsepower, head of the pump, volume stroke, pressure, outlet diameter, and operating temperature should be considered.
Benefits of Piston Pump
This sophisticated piece of equipment has several applications and benefits. Piston pumps have a wide pressure range that allows these devices to reach extraordinarily high pressures that can be regulated without affecting the flow rate. This type of pump has a continuous rate of discharge, which means it can carry viscous fluids, large gas volumes, and even particles across machinery. So, the key benefit of a piston pump is its efficiency and ability to transport fluids.
It is a robust and high-performing hydraulic pump, skilled in moving thick fluids, slurries, and abrasives. Its pressure range is broad and force can be controlled without changing the flow rate. With proper maintenance, the piston pump can last years, ensuring effective performance. The piston pump has numerous applications. It can effectively move different types of fluids- from low-viscosity materials like glazes to high-viscosity and densely packed materials for outdoor use. Due to their excellent performance, piston pumps are used across several industries.
Piston Pump: Meaning, Application, & Benefits