Positive Displacement Pumps: 10 Things You Should Know Before Buying

If your business is in the market for a positive displacement pump, there are several key features and facts to know before buying. Here are 10 things to keep in mind as you begin your search:

1. There are two types: the reciprocating and the rotary type. The reciprocating type relies on a piston or diaphragm to generate energy through a back and forth motion. The rotary design relies on a rotational gears or blades to generate kinetic rotational energy.
2. Best used if the intended application requires a constant flow rate.
3. Positive displacement pumps require a minimum pressure level at the input
4. If your intended application uses a high flow rate, the rotary version is not the best choice due to the rotary mechanism being worn down and losing efficiency
5. Positive displacement pumps work best with high viscosity fluids, such as oils, paints, or resins.
6. Unlike centrifugal valves, positive displacement pumps cannot operate with closed valves, since they cannot be shut off and could potentially cause a leaking or burst pipe
7. These pumps are not self priming
8. A pulsing discharge can occur with positive displacement pumps, and can create noise in the pipes. This can be mitigated through the use of additional pump cylinders and even dampeners
9. Very effective for accurate dosing applications
10. Produces the same flow speed no matter the discharge pressure

At Lincoln Suppliers, we are one of SPX / APV Waukesha’s leading pump distributers. Call us today at 844-818-1242, or visit our website to request a free quote.