Different types of vertical pumps serve varying needs, making their selection critical when buying one. In this article, we explore the available types and their typical applications. Before that, here is a brief introduction to the vertical pump.
Vertical Pump Overview
A vertical pump has a vertical configuration. It typically consists of a shaft that runs through its height. The drive, which can be an electric motor , also mounts vertically above its body.
Vertical pumps reduce the required installation area due to their upright shape. They also suit liquid extraction uses, such as pumping. Other benefits include their smooth flow characteristics.
Vertical multistage centrifugal pumps are commonly used for conveying clear water. Depending on the materials and structure, they can also convey cold and hot liquids.
Types of Vertical Pumps
Pump manufacturers supply the product in various designs and with other features. This variation ensures users can meet their application needs. The following are the different types of vertical pumps on the market today.
Bomba centrífuga
Vertical centrifugal pumps rely on centrifugal force to transfer liquids. They typically contain impellers that suction liquids and send them up the pump assembly.
Some use more than two impellers, achieving higher pressures. They are also usually designed with volutes to guide the liquid through the various pumping stages.
Centrifugal pumps are best suited for low to medium flow requirements. They can be residential water supply systems or industrial fluid transfer and distribution systems.
Turbine Pump
Vertical turbine pumps feature a longer-than-usual shaft connecting the motor (or other drive) to the impeller. This design makes them suitable for high-head, low to medium-flow uses.
They transfer water from greater depths or move it against gravity to higher heights. Popular applications include extracting water from wells and aquifers or sending it to elevated storage units.
Multistage Pump
Vertical multistage types are called so for using multiple propellers to accelerate fluids. The propellers mount on a shaft and are usually coupled with volutes or diffusers.
These pumps attain high pressures, making them suitable for deep and high liquid transfer needs. They also improve efficiency and flow properties.
Bomba en línea
These are designed to integrate into a piping system using various coupling methods. They become a part of the system and help boost the line’s pressure. Their compact design enables them to fit without disturbing the piping.
Can Pump
These pumps house impellers in individual cans or barrels. You can also call them vertical barrel pumps. The construction allows pressure increase using gravity to improve performance.
You’ll usually find can pumps in the oil and gas industry, where they transfer hydrocarbons. They are also helpful in water supply and distribution systems. They offer installation ease and flexibility.
Bomba de flujo axial
Axial types have the impeller mounted vertically and in parallel with the pump shaft. The flow direction is, therefore, along the impeller vanes.
These pumps offer low-head high-flow characteristics. They fit applications where the liquid only needs to lift a few feet, such as flood control and drainage.
Radial Flow Pump
Radial vertical pumps use a radially mounted impeller. In other words, the impeller sits perpendicular to the shaft. This design is one of the most common. It allows the pumps to attain higher head and good flow characteristics.
Mixed Flow Pump
Mixed flow types combine axial and radial constructions to attain high head and flow. The design can be an open or closed type; it depends on the desired characteristics. They are popularly used in water distribution systems and industrial processes.
Submersible Pump
The submersible pump goes down into the liquid being pumped. This usage situation requires a few design features. For one, the motor must mount close to the suction bell to make a compact assembly.
The assembly is also hermetically sealed to prevent fluid entry, since it operates inside the liquid. They operate silently due to their position. They also eliminate the need for elaborate above-ground installation structures.
Submersible pumps are best for extracting water from deep sources, such as wells and lakes. They also transfer water from reservoirs to irrigation and clean water supply systems. You can also use them for industrial processes.
Sump Pump
Sump pumps are suspended types optimized for draining and other similar uses. They handle clean and contaminated liquids, including debris-laden types and sludge or slurries.
They typically overhang above the liquid with the motor above and the suction part submerged. Their design allows them to transfer liquids containing solids.
They are usually best for flood control and draining wet pits or sump basins. In addition to homes, the pump is helpful in mining and construction, on farms, and in various industrial applications.
Which Vertical Pump is the Best for Your Application?
The best pump for your application must serve your liquid transfer requirements. It must also be compatible with the type of liquid you intend to use it for. The following are key factors to consider when choosing vertical pumps.
Flow and Head Requirement
Determine the head and flow needs of your project. A mismatch could cause the motor to underperform if the specs are too high. It could also cause you to undersize the pump and overwork.
Have a clear understanding of the curve characteristics of each pump type, and choose what best suits your requirements. For instance, axial pumps have steep curves, while radial types generally have straight curves.
These variations make axial pumps best for high head and low flow needs. On the other hand, consider the axial type if flow requirements are high and flow needs are low.
The flow rate, which is usually measured in m³/h or gallons per minute (GPM), indicates the amount of liquid the pump can move per unit time. On the other hand, the head is the amount of pressure or lift the pump generates.
Fluid Compatibility
Different types of vertical pumps can handle different kinds of media. That in turn, makes them suit varying uses and application environments.
Some can only handle clean water, while others are compatible with solids or corrosive chemicals. Use the types of liquid you intend to pump as a guide to avoid usage issues.
The manufacturer usually indicates the fluids you can move with the product. However, it’s also crucial to seek advice before making your choice.
Application Conditions
Vertical pumps are generally space savers. You can install them in smaller ground spaces due to their vertical orientation.
However, other application settings determine the type of vertical pump to use. They include the presence of harsh chemicals that could damage the pump.
Stainless steel pumps and various other alloys can handle corrosive liquids. On the other hand, cast iron types are best for general usage needs.
Drive Type
There are typically two options: an electric motor and an internal combustion engine. You can only use the electric type if you have access to a power source. Engine-powered pumps are usable virtually anywhere and are more powerful.
Conclusión
Different types of vertical pumps are available on the market today. Understanding their design features can help you make the right choice. That’s because different usage settings have varying pumping requirements. The information in this write-up should guide you in making an informed decision based on the needs of your project.