A Guide to Inline Pumps, Industrial Applications, and Uses
There are so many types of centrifugal pumps, to the point that it can be difficult to keep them all straight. Especially, if you are trying to decide which one is best for you. Today, we are going to teach you about inline pumps. Stick around to learn what they are used for and what you should consider when investing in an inline pump.
What Is an Inline Pump?
Inline pumps (otherwise referred to as straight-line pumps) are a variety of centrifugal pumps whose suction and discharge connections rest in a straight line of piping or are kept with each other inside of the casing. The flow of fluids does not change within an inline pump.
Inline pumps are relatively small and require less floor space than other, larger types of pumps. They are not a self-priming variety of pump, and they are ideal for pumping fluids that have little to no solids in them.
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What Industrial Applications Are Inline Pumps Used For?
Inline pumps serve a wide range of industrial applications, chief among them being water circulation and water heating. Vertical inline pumps, in particular, are best for the circulation of hot water, as they can withstand extreme temperatures.
They are commonly used in boilers, cooling towers, and air conditioning systems, and they also can be used as booster pumps for water supplies and thermal power stations. Because of their small stature, they are excellent for industrial applications where space is limited.
Important Considerations When Choosing an Inline Pump
The following are important considerations when deciding which type of inline pump you want for your industrial application.
- Type of pump
- Number of stages
- Flow rate
- Head
- Power
- End Flanges
Type of Pump
There are two classifications of inline pumps: horizontal and vertical. This classification refers to the orientation of the pump’s shaft.
Typically, horizontal inline pumps operate best in low-pressure and mild-temperature conditions. They are easy to install, repair, and maintain.
Vertical inline pumps are superior to horizontal pumps in that they are better for high-pressure, high-efficiency, and high-temperature applications. If any of those characteristics apply to your situation, then you are better off investing in a vertical pump.
However, there is one key advantage that horizontal pumps have over vertical pumps. They can operate by being coupled to either an engine, motor, or turbine. On the other hand, vertical pumps will only operate if they are directly coupled to a motor.
This makes horizontal pumps slightly more versatile when it comes to that particular consideration. However, in the end, how heavy-duty your application is will ultimately determine which pump is better for you.
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Number of Stages
Inline pumps can either be single-stage or multi-stage pumps. Multi-stage pumps are better for booster applications and the pressurization of fluids, whereas single-stage pumps are ideal for direct and low-pressure applications. Additionally, single-stage pumps are more compact, making them great for when space-saving is a concern.
Flow Rate
A pump’s flow rate is the maximum amount of fluid that can be pumped through it at any given time. Obviously, a high-pressure application that requires a high flow rate will call for a beefier pump. This is one of the most important things to consider when choosing an inline pump.
Additionally, it should be noted that a pump’s flow rate is measured in gallons per minute (GPM).
Head
A pump’s head is the maximum distance that the fluid can be pressurized. Essentially, a pump’s maximum head is the height at which its flow rate becomes zero. A pump’s head is measured in feet, and inline pumps are typically ideal for high-head applications.
Power
Power, in an industrial pump application, is the amount of energy required to transfer fluids from the inlet side of the pump to the discharge point. Pumps must be powered sufficiently in order to achieve maximum flow rate and head. Power is expressed by horsepower.
End Flanges
Last but not least, the pump’s end flanges must fit and align perfectly for the pump to perform adequately. Flanges are sized across different brands based on API and ANSI standards.
C&B Equipment Can Provide Maintenance and Repairs for Your Industrial Pumps!
Having issues with one of your industrial pumps? No matter what kind of pump it is, C&B Equipment has got your back. We specialize in the installation, repair, and maintenance of industrial pumps and other types of equipment. We are also one of the nation’s largest distributors of industrial equipment from reputable manufacturers like Grundfos.
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