This pump type’s unique system design requirements are often ignored or misapplied, which affects reliability and operation.

Written by: Gary Dyson and Herb Tackett Jr. (Hydro, Inc.)
Publisher: Pumps & Systems / July 2015

Because Centrifugal pumps are widely used, pump and rotating equipment engineers are generally familiar with this equipment’s operating principles, performance curves and selection criteria.

Image 1. While centrifugal pumps are the subject of much training, the dwindling population of reciprocating pumps has led to a loss of understanding of this pump type’s unique system design requirements. (Images and graphics courtesy of Hydro, Inc.)

While Centrifugal pumps are the subject of much training, the dwindling population of reciprocating pumps has led to a loss of understanding of this pump type’s unique system design requirements. Centrifugal pump specifications are now commonly and incorrectly applied to reciprocating pumps, which can lead to significant reliability problems.

End users should consider these 10 key facts about reciprocating pumps that can influence reliability and operation. Continue reading →