Pumps move liquids. All process plants have pumps. The types of pumps include centrifugal, hydraulic, rotary, reciprocating, and vacuum pumps.
The capacity of a pump is defined by the amount of fluid passing through the unit rated in GPM (Gallons per Minute), and the discharge pressure rated at Head Feet. The head is the height of the column of fluid that the pump can push.
Types of pumps:
Centrifugal pumps - the most widely used pumps in processing plants are Centrifugal pumps. They consist of an impellor rotating within a casing
Reciprocating pumps – positive displacement pumps that have a higher efficiency than centrifugal pumps. The classes of reciprocating pumps include piston pumps, plunger pumps, and diaphragm pumps.
Rotary pumps - In rotary pumps mechanical displacement of the liquid is produced by rotation of one or more members within a stationary housing. This type of pump includes gear pumps that have two impellors in a housing for thicker liquids, Moyno pumps which are progressive cavity pumps, and screw pumps.
Hydraulic pumps – designed to generate fluid power.
Vacuum pumps - designed to pull vacuum.