The piston pump is a simple device that has great use. These strong pumps consist of a chamber, a piston, and control devices. Piston pump, also known as reciprocating pumps, works on the positive displacement principle. It is typically used to move liquids or compress gases. With the help of a piston, diaphragm, or plunger, the piston pump moves liquids. By using check valves as the input and output valves, the piston pump builds pressure and moves fluid. This type of pump is commonly used for water irrigation. It is a rotary pump that consists of a wheel or revolving shaft for operating the piston. The system comprises a piston connected to a crankshaft. The electric motor powers the crankshaft to drive the piston. This moves the piston up and down in the compression cylinder to pump the fluid from one place to the other. The pumping mechanism creates a force that results in increasing the volume of the liquid.
Piston pumps drive powered by an electric motor, steam, or hydraulic drive mechanism. Based on the application of the pump, different materials are used to design the piston pump. The area that gets in contact with the pumped liquid must be made of rust-resistant material. Also, sturdy material is used for the casing and cylinder that have enough strength. There are different types of piston pumps such as:
- Force piston pump
- Lift piston pump
- Radial piston pump
- Axial piston pump (Straight axis piston pump & Bent axis pump)
Benefits of Using Piston Pumps
In the hydraulics industry, gear pumps are commonly used because of their affordable cost and reliable functions. However, piston pumps are also getting popular in the hydraulics industry because of the benefits it offers.
- Higher Horsepower
Piston or plunger pumps can reach extremely high pressures. The high pressure can be controlled without impacting the flow rate. As compared to fixed displacement gear pumps that wastes energy, piston pump adjust flow. Gear pumps continuously provide the same flow while piston pumps increase horsepower when a higher flow is required. Moreover, piston pumps help in saving fuel because of their higher horsepower (hp).
- Variety of Applications
Piston pumps are being used for a variety of applications and have become efficient at multitasking. Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) have made some additions to adjust the machine for their applications. Since piston pumps can adjust flow rates, they can be used for operations that require different flows. Unlike a constant flow gear pump, piston pumps don’t waste energy and ensure efficient power usage. It is because of their versatility that piston pumps are not only used to move liquids but also to convey gases. Different types of piston pumps are used in various industries such as
- Oil & gas
- Chemical industry
- Steel & rolling mills
- Mining
- Energy management
- Water & wastewater treatment
- Galvanizing & More!
- Efficiency
All the points mentioned above point to the efficiency of piston pumps. The variable piston pumps are designed to achieve higher horsepower that helps in getting more work done. These advanced pumps have better control and superior cooling that enhances their efficiency. Whether an application required continuous flow or adjustment, piston pumps can suit all applications. Piston pumps come with multiple control options such as load sensing, remote pressure control, pressure compensation, electronic displacement, and more. These pumps also have better cooling capabilities that work well for the different operating environments. If properly maintained, piston pumps can last for years.
