Choosing the Right High Pressure Pump—A Quick Guide

Does your work involve the hydrostatic pressure testing of surface, subsea or safety valves? Or that the maintenance of certain equipment requires hydraulic pressure? If so, you might already have heard of a high pressure pump, a device that does the heavy work behind the scenes of those tasks. 

On hindsight, high-pressure pumps are mechanical devices that move fluids at high pressures. They are commonly used in various industries, from industrial and manufacturing to residential settings. High-pressure pumps can deliver extremely high a precise jet of water, or simply ensure your household’s water supply remains constant. 

High-pressure pumps come in different shapes and sizes, each unique to cater to different tasks. This is also why these pumps have specific workings depending on the type, but all high-pressure pumps work by applying force to a fluid and moving it through a system. 

This article will explore various high pressure pump types alongside features and determining factors in choosing the right high pressure pump. 

 

Types of High Pressure Pumps

 

Reciprocating Pumps

A reciprocating pump uses a pull-and-push motion to trap fluid and force its discharge at high pressure. The concept here is that when a pump is pulled, it creates a suction or vacuum-like feature to trap liquids, and when the pump is pushed, the liquids are discharged at high pressure. 

 

• Piston Pumps: As the name suggests, piston pumps have pistons that move inside a cylinder, which helps create that reciprocating motion. Due to its robust design, this type of pump is known as the pump workhorse, withstanding a variety of thick liquids and greases.

 

• Plunger Pumps: This type of pump works identically to piston pumps. The key difference is that plunger pumps use a plunging mechanism instead of a piston. Another characteristic that might differ from the two is that plunger pumps move through a fixed seal.
  

 

Rotary Pumps

Rotary pumps use a rotating mechanism to move high-viscosity fluids at high pressures. ⁤⁤They are self-priming pumps, meaning they can remove vapour or gas in the mixture before starting the pumping process. ⁤

 

• Gear Pumps are ideal for transferring viscous fluids because of their efficiency and reliability. They have a steady, pulseless flow, essential in lubrication and hydraulic applications. This type of rotary pump uses mesh gears to pump fluid.

 

• Lobe Pumps are commonly used in the sanitary industry as they are known to handle fluids gently.
  

 

• Screw Pumps are heavily favoured in applications involving crude oil, fuel, and other viscous fluids because of their ability to handle higher flow rates with menial pulsation. These pumps operate using one or more screws. 

 

Centrifugal Pumps

This next type of pump converts an external source’s mechanical energy into kinetic energy to transport fluids. Centrifugal pumps use a rotating impeller to create a force that moves the fluid from the pump to the discharge pipe. 

 

• Multi-stage Centrifugal Pumps: This type of centrifugal pump produces high-pressure output with multiple impellers or stages. It is commonly used to supply water and for fire protection. 

 

• Axial-flow Centrifugal Pumps: If the latter has multiple impellers, axial-flow pumps use an impeller that rotates to an axis and is used for high-flow rate applications. 

 

Diaphragm Pumps

This type of pump uses a rubber-made diaphragm to move viscous, abrasive, and corrosive liquids. Diaphragm pumps are known to operate in various settings, such as chemical processing, water treatment, and pharmaceuticals. 

 

• Hydraulic Diaphragm Pumps: These pumps can provide high pressure yet precise flow control through a hydraulic fluid that flexes a diaphragm, hence starting a pumping action. Hydraulic diaphragm pumps can operate aggressive chemicals and abrasive slurries. 

 

• Pneumatic Diaphragm Pumps: These versatile pumps, which can handle corrosive and viscous liquids, are powered by compressed air. Most pneumatic diaphragm pumps are used in hazardous environments, such as the electricity, mining, and chemical industries. 

 

High-Pressure Water Jetting Pumps

This type of pump is also known as high-pressure hydrojetting, as it can discharge widespread abrasive water. High-pressure water jetting pumps are efficient because of their pressure and flow response. Usually, hard deposits are better tackled with higher pressures, while softer materials require higher flows. 

With their powerful water-blasting effect, high-pressure water jetting pumps are best for cleaning and cutting. These pumps are the best tools for cleaning tough residues, sludge, debris, sand, and grease. With enough pressure, they can even cut through metals and concrete. 

Key Features to Consider

To ensure that a high-pressure pump meets your needs, these are the following features that you must take note of: 

 

• The pressure rating is crucial as it determines the force of the pump. Therefore, you must ensure that the high-pressure pump you buy meets the required pressure for your application. 

 

• Flow rate indicates the volume of liquid that a pump can deliver. Thus, it must match the demand of your application. If you need a pump that offers greater flexibility and efficiency, you must get one with adjustable flow rates. 

 

• Another factor you must consider is the high-pressure pump’s material and build quality. It should be compatible with the fluids you will use in your application to prevent corrosion and wear. Stainless steel is preferred because it’s proven to be durable and robust. 

 

• Energy-efficient pumps can help you save significantly on future operational costs. Look for pumps with motors and designs that only require minimal energy consumption. 

 

• Ease of maintenance means choosing a high-pressure pump that is easy to maintain. You must consider buying pumps with easily accessible parts and clear service instructions. 

 

• Safety features should also be your top priority when buying high-pressure pumps. Since some of this equipment can be hazardous, ensuring the pump has adequate safety features, like emergency shutoffs and pressure relief valves. 

 

Factors to Consider When Choosing a High Pressure Pump

After understanding the features, you must know other factors to consider when buying a high-pressure pump. Here are some of them: 

 

• Specific Requirements of Your Application: You must know why you’ll need a high-pressure pump. Understanding your reasons will help you specify the features you need in a pump, narrowing down your options.

 

• Budget: Consider the equipment’s initial and long-term operating costs. Conduct in-depth research about the pump since you might think you can save by buying cheaper ones without realising the cost of maintenance and energy efficiency. 

 

• Brand Reputation and Reviews: The brand’s reliability will make you feel at ease about the quality of the high-pressure pump you choose. So, it is a must for you to research the brands and read reviews, testimonials, and high-rated feedback. 

 

• Warranty and Support: Potential issues down the line are unavoidable, so choosing a manufacturer with a good warranty and reliable customer support is essential.

 

Choosing the right high pressure pumps is crucial for efficiency and application success

 

Being guided through the different types of pumps, their key features, and other factors to consider will help you choose the perfect high-pressure pump for your needs. 

So, whether you need pumps for industrial or specialised applications, choosing the right pump can help you be efficient and successful in your application. Always remember all the considerations, including opting to get pumps from reputable brands like Maximator Far East. 

Maximator Far East is an internationally leading company specialising in high pressure technologies . Our team develops high-quality products for different industry uses and applications, especially in hydraulics, equipment, high-pressure testing and pneumatics. 

We offer a wide variety of high pressure solutions; Pneumatic (Air-driven) Liquid Pumps and Gas Boosters, Compressors,  Valves, Fittings, and Tubing, High Pressure Hoses, Pressure Gauges, Chart Recorders, Customised Liquid and Gas Test Bay Systems, and Preventive Maintenance and Repair Services.