Hydraulic Institute (HI) Standards: What Pump Engineers Need to Know
Hydraulic Institute (HI) standards define the testing, rating, and performance criteria for pumps worldwide. This reference explains the key provisions, how they are derived,…
PumpCalcs reference library
Category: Pump Types & Selection
Guidance on choosing the right pump based on application and performance criteria.
18 resources
Methods · worked examples · references
Types of Pumps: The Complete Guide to Centrifugal and Positive Displacement Pumps
This comprehensive guide explains how centrifugal and positive displacement pumps work, how to select the right type, their practical uses, benefits, challenges, and emerging…
Magnetic Drive and Sealless Pumps: Advantages, Trade‑offs, and Applications
Magnetic drive (sealless) pumps eliminate traditional shaft seals by transmitting torque through a hermetically sealed magnetic coupling. This article explains the physics, key design…
Centrifugal vs Positive Displacement Pumps: How to Choose
Choosing between centrifugal and positive‑displacement pumps hinges on flow‑rate stability, pressure demands, fluid characteristics, and system dynamics. This article unpacks the governing equations, performance…
Progressive Cavity and Screw Pumps for Viscous and Solids‑Laden Fluids – Design, Operation, and Selection
Progressive cavity and screw pumps excel at moving high‑viscosity and solids‑laden fluids where centrifugal machines fail. This article explains their operating principle, key performance…
How to Read a Pump Nameplate and Datasheet
Decoding a pump’s nameplate and datasheet is essential for proper selection, system integration, and safe operation. This guide explains each field, the governing equations,…
Self-Priming Pumps: How They Work and When You Need One
Self‑priming pumps can lift liquid from a dry suction condition without external boosters. This article explains the hydraulic principle, key design equations, typical performance…
Fire Pump Basics: Ratings, Curves, and What NFPA 20 Requires
A fire pump must deliver the flow and pressure demanded by the fire‑protection system while meeting NFPA 20’s stringent reliability and testing standards. This article…
Life Cycle Cost Analysis for Pumping Systems: A Practical Method
A systematic approach to evaluate the total cost of owning and operating a pump, balancing capital outlay with energy, maintenance, and downtime expenses. This…
Multistage Pumps: When One Impeller Isn’t Enough
Multistage pumps stack two or more impellers in series to achieve pressures far beyond a single‑stage centrifugal pump. This article explains the governing equations,…