18 Aug How Metering Pumps Provide Great Accuracy

Metering Pumps – Providing Accuracy When It Counts

Accuracy in measurements counts for several industries. The same can be said for adding amounts of fluids in various industrial processes, measurements need to be precise to supply an end-product that is safe for use. This is not done by following a recipe but through metering pumps as they can add small but accurate volumes of a liquid to other fluid streams.

When Are Metering Pumps Likely to be Used?

Metering pumps are required in many industrial applications including pharmaceuticals, water and waste treatment, food and beverage production, power generation, chemical processing, petrochemicals and oil and gas extraction. Liquids can be anything from fragrances and pigments to acids and alkaline solutions for chemical processes and water treatment. They are designed to maintain a constant flow rate regardless of differential pressure or fluid viscosity, deliver a variable flow to maintain a system parameter (PH) and inject a discrete dose (mostly in batch processing).

There are four main types each designed taking into account precision, accuracy and, above all, reliability.

Different Types of Metering Pumps

Diaphragm – This uses a flexible membrane to move fluid. The diaphragms reciprocate back and forth creating a temporary chamber drawing in and expelling liquids through the pump. Due to their efficiency and accuracy, they are used in a number of industries where fluid transfer is required. They are often used for dewatering and water removal.

Hydraulic – Drawing a certain amount of liquid into its chamber, it injects the chemical into the tank or pipe containing the fluid to be metered. Powered by an electric motor or air actuator and having a controller that turns the pump on and off allow the flow rate to be managed. They are used mainly in chemical and pharmaceutical processes and refineries where accuracy is paramount.

Peristaltic – Rollers or shoes compress the tube or hose as they rotate creating a vacuum which draws fluid through the tube. Nothing but the pump tube or hose touches the fluid eliminating the risk of contamination. They are typically used to pump clean, sterile or highly reactive fluids and are mainly used in the medical field.

Plunger – This pump is synonymous with accurate dosing and is generally preferred for high-pressure, high-temperature and viscous chemicals. Water is pressurised and forced through an outlet valve. This creates suction pressure by drawing the fluid through the intake valve. As the rotor turns, the plunger is pushed back down sending fluid through the outlet valve. It is best suited for metering applications with pressure ratings of up to 400 Bar.

Read more about Metering Pumps and Their Uses here.

Choose the Right One First

With all the different options on offer, if you are unsure which metering pumps to choose from, then contact the experts – Prochem Chemical Pump Manufacturers. We offer a comprehensive line of chemical pumps and pumping equipment for the most demanding applications. Whether for water or chemical transfer, we have the perfect pumping solution for your specific requirements. Choose from top-quality brands, like Finish Thompson, Oberdorfer, Prominent Pumps and Ebara, among others, as well as our comprehensive range of Prochem pumps.