A Complete Guide to Choosing the Right Dosing Pump Types for Industrial Applications

Many industrial processes rely on the accurate movement of liquids, chemicals, additives, and process fluids in general. In cases when precise amounts of the fluid are needed to be delivered, the use of a regular transfer pump may be ineffective. Dosing pumps come into play.

Given different principles of operation, pressure ranges, flow rates, and materials, choosing the proper pump becomes possible only if one understands the specifics of the application in question. Studying the dosing pump types will benefit various industries in making the right choice.

To the needs of many industries such as chemical processing, water treatment, pharmaceuticals, food production, fertilizers, power generation, and others, there are tailor-made pumping solutions offered by Synopumps.

What is a Dosing Pump?

A dosing pump is engineered to meter a precise amount of liquid into the process. While regular pumps are mainly designed for volume transfer, dosing pumps are selected where precision fluid injection is critical.

Depending on factors like viscosity, chemical nature of the fluid, the flow rate required, discharge pressure, temperature of operation, and degree of dosing control desired, the appropriate pump is selected.

Selection of the right design among different types of dosing pumps is thus essential in process system design.

Understanding Various Types of Dosing Pumps

Not all pumps serve all industrial purposes. Different pumps exhibit varying degrees of performance.

1. Diaphragm Dosing Pumps

In this type of pumps, fluid flow in the pumping chamber is achieved using the action of a flexible diaphragm. These types of pumps are commonly used in chemical dosing applications due to their fluid containment and delivery capabilities.

It is particularly helpful when dealing with chemicals that are aggressive or delicate in nature as it allows isolation of the process fluid from some mechanical parts in the process.

2. Plunger Dosing Pumps

This is a type of pump whose operation is achieved using the reciprocating action of a plunger to deliver a definite volume of fluid in each cycle. This is particularly helpful for applications where high discharge pressure and positive displacement action is required.

In choosing this particular pump type, one must consider various factors such as fluid properties, discharge pressure, sealing system, and material compatibility among others.

3. Progressive Cavity Dosing Pumps

This works on the principle of the action of rotor and stator to move fluid progressively. This type of pump is particularly useful for thick or suspending fluids.

For some dosing jobs that require the handling of difficult liquids, the progressive cavity pump might offer an effective way to get smooth and controlled motion. Synopumps offers progressive cavity pumps in many different series, which includes its DC Series specifically for dosing applications.

4. Peristaltic Dosing Pumps

In peristaltic pumps, fluid is moved by means of a rotating compression action on the liquid contained in the tube. This pump might prove helpful in cases when it is desirable to avoid contamination or simply to isolate the fluid from the surroundings.

Nevertheless, there are certain aspects to take into account.

Important Considerations in Selecting a Dosing Pump

Selection of the appropriate type of dosing pump would depend on the practical needs of the process rather than the cost comparison of various pumps.

Properties of Liquid

First, one should know the properties of the liquid involved in the process. Viscosity, abrasion, chemical compatibility, solid matter and temperature will affect the choice of the pump.

While a thin solution may need a totally different treatment compared to a thick slurry with particles.

Flow Capacity

The flow capacity of the pump is also an important aspect to consider. The pump should offer the needed flow capacity without working near its maximum limits.

Precise flow rate regulation becomes extremely important when a pump delivers the chemicals for dosing into a process dependent on their concentration.

Pressure of Discharge

Discharge pressure of the system is yet another consideration. The pipe length, elevation, valves, fittings etc. all contribute to the resistance in the system.

Choosing a pump without proper understanding of pressure will cause underperformance and unnecessary mechanical stresses.

Compatibility of Materials

The materials used in pumps need to be compatible with the fluid in use. The wetted parts, seals, elastomers, stators, diaphragms, and other parts may need to have specific materials due to the fluid properties.

This is especially true in the case of chemicals and pharmaceutical applications.

Dosing Pump Applications in Industries

Dosing systems have found application in many different kinds of industries. The water and wastewater treatment industry might need to add certain chemicals to the system, while the chemical industry might need pumps for process chemicals.

There are other uses, including pharmaceuticals, fertilizers, food processing industries, power plants, oil & gas industries, and sugar and distillery industries. These industries, along with others, are recognized by Synopumps through their progressive cavity pumps.

Selection of the right pump design can help the companies keep the process stable.

Importance of Selecting the Right Manufacturer

Choosing a pump is just one of the many criteria for success. The manufacturer needs to be familiar with the conditions under which the pump will operate and able to offer proper engineering assistance.

The right manufacturer can assist in assessing the flow rates, pressure, type of fluids, materials, operating conditions, and maintenance concerns before coming up with the proper recommendation.

There are several series of progressive cavity pumps offered by Synopumps, totaling over 20 pump series, including general industrial, food and hygienic, dosing, wide throat, barrel, biogas, multiphase, and other types of pumps.

Choosing a proper dosing system should not only be based on the highest power and economy of the pump used. The best choice should take into consideration the fluid characteristics, pressure, flow rate, temperature, material, operating environment, and process requirements.

Knowing about different kinds of pumps that are available helps a lot in making the right choice. Diaphragm, plunger, progressive cavity, peristaltic, and many more pumps each has its own advantages and applications.

Synopumps, with its vast experience in progressive cavity pumping technology and dedicated dosing systems, is there for industries that need reliable fluid handling systems for their industrial process.