Advantages and disadvantages of gear pumps

Table of contents

  1. Introduction
  2. Advantages of gear pumps
    • Precision and accuracy
    • Low pulsation
    • Versatility
    • Reliability and durability
  3. Disadvantages of gear pumps
    • Limited operating ranges
    • Challenges with liquids with low viscosity
    • Challenges with abrasives
    • No dry running possible
    • High maintenance costs

What are the advantages and disadvantages of gear pumps?

Introduction

Gear pumps are widely used in many industries due to their numerous advantages. Their precision, reliability and versatility make them a preferred choice for a variety of applications. Nevertheless, there are also some disadvantages that should be considered when deciding on this type of pump. In this article, both the advantages and disadvantages of gear pumps are described in detail.

Advantages of gear pumps

Precision and accuracy

Gear pumps are known for their high precision and accuracy. They are able to deliver constant and accurate flow rates, making them ideal for applications that require exact dosing. This is particularly important in the medical and pharmaceutical industries, where even the smallest deviations in flow rate can have a significant impact.

Low pulsation

Another advantage of gear pumps is their low pulsation. Unlike other pump types, gear pumps produce a smooth and continuous flow without significant pressure fluctuations. This is particularly advantageous in applications where a consistent fluid supply is crucial, such as in the food and beverage industry.

Versatility

Gear pumps are extremely versatile and can be used in a wide range of applications. They are capable of pumping a wide range of fluids, including viscous, aggressive and abrasive media. This versatility makes them a preferred choice in many industries, from the chemical to the food industry.

Reliability and durability

Gear pumps are known for their reliability and durability. Their robust design and the use of high-quality materials ensure that they work reliably even under difficult conditions. Regular maintenance and inspections can further extend their service life and reduce operating costs.

Disadvantages of gear pumps

Limited operating ranges

Due to their size, gear pumps are unsuitable for operating processes with higher flow rates. Each gear pump unit/size has a clearly defined, narrow operating range. Operating outside these parameters will result in a shortened service life and inadequate pump performance. In addition, the rigid design of the configuration makes it difficult to adapt the pump to more demanding liquids.

Challenges with liquids with low viscosity

In order for a gear pump to pump liquids at high pressure effectively, the internal components must have very little clearance. Otherwise, very thin liquids (solvents) can "slip" through these narrow spaces from the high-pressure side (outlet side) to the low-pressure side (inlet side) of the pump. Depending on the outlet pressure, viscosity of the liquid and working clearance in the pump, the slippage leads to a reduction in the flow rate and pump efficiency. In addition, low-viscosity materials can lead to increased pump wear due to their poor lubricating properties.

Challenges with abrasives

Due to the tight tolerances and confined spaces, the gear pump is not the ideal solution for pumping fluids containing abrasives. Abrasive particles can get stuck in the narrow spaces and cause accelerated wear, resulting in rapidly decreasing pump performance. The wear rate when pumping abrasives depends on the hardness, size and concentration of the particles as well as the operating speed of the pump.

No dry running possible

Gear pumps have a limited suction capacity and cannot run dry for long periods without damaging their stators and rotors. Liquid must be present to lubricate the contact surfaces between the rotor and stator and to dissipate the friction and heat of the pump.

High maintenance costs

Gear pumps have many rotating parts that must have precise tolerances, which makes them quite expensive to manufacture and maintain. In addition, the expensive and delicate seals can leak and need to be replaced. The reduced number of moving parts can lead to significant savings in maintenance and spare parts costs over time.