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…
PumpCalcs reference library
Tag: pump selection
23 resources
Methods · worked examples · references
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…
How to Calculate Pump Energy Cost and Annual Operating Expense
Understanding the true cost of running a pump is essential for reliable plant budgeting. This guide walks you through the physics, equations, and practical…
NPSH Explained: NPSHa vs NPSHr and How to Calculate Both
Net Positive Suction Head (NPSH) determines whether a centrifugal pump will cavitate. This article clarifies the difference between available NPSH (NPSHa) and required NPSH…
Specific Speed and Suction Specific Speed: What They Tell You About a Pump
Specific speed and suction specific speed are dimensionless (or quasi‑dimensionless) indices that classify pump impeller geometry, predict performance curve shape, and quantify suction capability.…
Best Efficiency Point (BEP): What It Is and Why Operating Away From It Destroys Pumps
The Best Efficiency Point (BEP) is the flow rate and head at which a centrifugal pump operates with maximum hydraulic efficiency. Sustained operation far…
End Suction, Split Case, and Vertical Turbine Pumps Compared: Design, Performance, and Selection
A detailed comparison of end‑suction, split‑case, and vertical turbine centrifugal pumps, covering their operating principles, performance equations, typical ranges, and selection guidance. The article…
Slurry Pump Selection: Derating, Wear, and Solids Handling – A Technical Guide
Choosing the right pump for abrasive slurries requires careful derating, wear‑rate prediction, and solids‑handling strategies. This article explains the governing equations, design variants, and…
How to Size a Pump Motor: Horsepower, Service Factor, and Safety Margin
A step‑by‑step guide to calculating the correct motor size for a centrifugal pump, including horsepower, service factor, and safety margin. Learn the governing formulas,…