A Comprehensive Guide to Detecting Problems with Commonly Used Pumps Today

Introduction:

Pumps play a critical role in various industries, ensuring the smooth flow of liquids or gases. However, like any mechanical equipment, pumps can encounter issues that affect their performance and reliability. Recognizing and diagnosing these problems early on is crucial for maintaining optimal operation and preventing costly breakdowns. In this blog post, we will explore the most commonly used types of pumps in the USA, along with the symptoms of potential problems, repair options, and replacement considerations.

Top Commonly Used Pumps in the USA:

1. Centrifugal Pump:

Definition: A centrifugal pump uses an impeller to increase the velocity of a fluid and convert it into pressure.

Industry: Widely used in water treatment, HVAC systems, and chemical processing.

Top Manufacturers: Grundfos, Goulds Pumps, Flowserve, ITT Industries.

2. Submersible Pump:

Definition: A submersible pump is designed to operate underwater and push fluid to the surface.

Industry: Commonly used in sewage treatment, oil wells, and irrigation.

Top Manufacturers: Franklin Electric, Grundfos, Flygt (Xylem), Tsurumi.

3. Diaphragm Pump:

Definition: A diaphragm pump uses a flexible diaphragm to displace fluids.

Industry: Suitable for chemical processing, wastewater treatment, and mining.

Top Manufacturers: ARO Fluid Management, Flojet, Wilden Pump & Engineering, Yamada Corporation.

5. Water Pump:

Definition: A water pump is a device that moves water or other fluids using mechanical or electrical energy.

Industry: Water pumps are essential in various sectors, including residential, commercial, agricultural, municipal, and industrial applications.

Top Manufacturers: Grundfos, Xylem, Flowserve Corporation, Wilo SE, Ebara Corporation.

6. Vacuum Pump:

Definition: A vacuum pump removes gas molecules from a sealed chamber, creating a vacuum.

Industry: Widely used in scientific research, pharmaceuticals, and electronics manufacturing.

Top Manufacturers: Edwards Vacuum, Busch, Atlas Copco, Pfeiffer Vacuum.

7. Well Pumps:

Definition: Well pumps, also known as groundwater pumps, are pumps specifically designed to extract water from underground wells or groundwater sources for various purposes such as residential water supply, irrigation, and agricultural applications.

Industry: Well pumps are widely used in industries such as residential water systems, agriculture, irrigation, municipal water supply, and commercial applications that require access to groundwater.

Top Manufacturers: Grundfos, Franklin Electric, Goulds Pumps (Xylem), Pentair, Sta-Rite Industries.

8. Chemical Pump:

Definition: A chemical pump is a type of pump specifically designed to handle and transfer various chemicals, including corrosive, abrasive, and hazardous fluids.

Industry: Chemical pumps are widely used in industries such as chemical processing, oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, wastewater treatment, and food processing.

Top Manufacturers: Goulds Pumps, Grundfos, Flowserve Corporation, Iwaki, Milton Roy.

9. Magnetic Drive Pump:

Definition: A magnetic drive pump uses magnets to transmit rotary motion without a mechanical shaft seal.

Industry: Suitable for chemical transfer, pharmaceuticals, and semiconductor manufacturing.

Top Manufacturers: Iwaki America, March Manufacturing, Finish Thompson, Little Giant.

10. Progressive Cavity Pump:

Definition: A progressive cavity pump uses a helical rotor and stator to transfer fluids.

Industry: Commonly found in wastewater treatment, food processing, and oil extraction.

Top Manufacturers: Netzsch Pumps & Systems, PCM Group, Moyno (NOV), SEEPEX.

11. Air Operated Double Diaphragm (AODD) Pump:

Definition: An AODD pump utilizes compressed air to operate dual diaphragms and displace fluid.

Industry: Widely used in paint and coatings, petrochemicals, and automotive manufacturing.

Top Manufacturers: Graco, Wilden Pump & Engineering, Sandpiper (Warren Rupp).

12. Plunger Pump:

Definition: A plunger pump consists of reciprocating plungers that pressurize fluid.

Industry: Commonly used in pressure washing, car wash systems, and oil and gas production.

Top Manufacturers: Giant Industries, CAT Pumps, Comet Spa, Hawk Pumps.

13. Rotary Pump:

Definition: A rotary pump is a type of positive displacement pump that uses rotating mechanisms, such as gears, lobes, or vanes, to move fluid through the pump chamber.

Industry: Rotary pumps find applications in various industries, including oil and gas, chemical processing, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and automotive.

Top Manufacturers: Viking Pump (IDEX), Gardner Denver, Maag, Tuthill Corporation, PCM Group.

14. Hydraulic Piston Pump:

Definition: A hydraulic piston pump is a type of positive displacement pump that uses reciprocating pistons to generate flow and pressure in a hydraulic system.

Industry: Hydraulic piston pumps are extensively used in industries such as construction, manufacturing, agriculture, mining, marine, and oil and gas.

Top Manufacturers: Bosch Rexroth, Parker Hannifin, Eaton Corporation, Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Linde Hydraulics, Permco Inc.

15. Drum Pump:

Definition: A drum pump is specifically designed for transferring fluids from drums or barrels.

Industry: Suitable for chemical dispensing, liquid handling, and pharmaceutical applications.

Top Manufacturers: Finish Thompson, Flux Pumps, GoatThroat Pumps, Lutz Pumps.

16. Peristaltic Chemical Metering Pump:

Definition: Peristaltic chemical metering pumps are specialized pumps that deliver precise amounts of chemicals at controlled intervals using a peristaltic action.

Industry: These pumps find extensive use in industries such as water treatment, laboratory analysis, pharmaceutical production, and chemical dosing applications.

Top Manufacturers: Watson-Marlow Fluid Technology Group, Verderflex, Prominent, Seko Industrial Process Measurement.

17. Metering Pump:

Definition: A metering pump accurately measures and injects precise amounts of fluid.

Industry: Found in chemical dosing systems, water treatment, and analytical instrumentation.

Top Manufacturers: Grundfos, Milton Roy, LMI Pumps, Seko Industrial Process Measurement.

18. Turbine Pump:

Definition: A turbine pump is a type of centrifugal pump that utilizes a rotating impeller to transfer fluids by converting rotational energy into kinetic energy and then into potential energy.

Industry: Turbine pumps are commonly used in industries such as agriculture for irrigation systems, water supply and treatment, oil and gas production, and municipal water distribution.

Top Manufacturers: Sulzer Ltd, Flowserve Corporation, Grundfos, KSB Group, Patterson Pump Company.

19. Gear Pump:

Definition: A gear pump uses rotating gears to move fluids by displacing them between the gears' teeth.

Industry: Often utilized in hydraulic systems, fuel transfer, and lubrication applications.

Top Manufacturers: Viking Pump (IDEX), Chief Mfg, Pulsafeeder, Maag, Tuthill Corporation.

20. Pool and Spa Pump:

Definition: A pool and spa pump is a specialized pump designed to circulate and filter water in swimming pools and spas, ensuring proper water circulation and filtration.

Industry: Primarily used in the pool and spa industry for residential, commercial, and recreational applications.

Top Manufacturers: Hayward Industries, Pentair, Sta-Rite Industries, Dayton, Zodiac Pool Systems.

21. Circulating Pump:

Definition: A circulating pump, also known as a recirculation pump, is a type of pump used to circulate fluids within a closed system, typically for heating or cooling purposes.

Industry: Circulating pumps are commonly used in industries such as HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), hydronic heating systems, solar heating systems, and industrial processes that require fluid circulation.

Top Manufacturers: Grundfos, Taco Comfort Solutions, Wilo SE, Armstrong Fluid Technology, Bell & Gossett.

22. Condensate Pump: 

Definition: A condensate pump is a type of pump designed specifically for the removal of condensate water, which accumulates as a result of cooling or heating processes.

Industry: Condensate pumps are commonly used in various industries, including HVAC systems, refrigeration systems, steam systems, and industrial processes where condensation needs to be collected and removed.

Top Manufacturers: Little Giant (Franklin Electric), Hartell, Sauermann, Beckett Corporation, Liberty Pumps.

23. Engine Driven Pump:

Definition: An engine driven pump, also known as a motor-driven pump, is a type of pump that is powered by an internal combustion engine, typically fueled by gasoline, diesel, or natural gas.

Industry: Engine driven pumps are commonly used in industries such as agriculture for irrigation, firefighting and emergency response, construction, oil and gas, and mining. They are also frequently utilized in portable applications where a reliable power source is not readily available.

Top Manufacturers: Honda Power Equipment, Briggs & Stratton, Kohler Engines, CAT Pumps, Gorman-Rupp Company.

24. Flexible Impeller Pump:

Definition: A flexible impeller pump, also known as a rotary vane pump, is a type of positive displacement pump that uses a flexible impeller to move fluid by creating suction and generating flow.

Industry: Flexible impeller pumps are commonly used in industries such as marine, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, brewing, and agriculture. They are suitable for applications that require gentle pumping, self-priming capabilities, and the ability to handle delicate or viscous fluids.

Top Manufacturers: Johnson Pump (SPX Flow), Jabsco (Xylem), March Pump, Sherwood Pumps, Verderflex.

25. Fuel and Oil Transfer Pump:

Definition: A fuel and oil transfer pump is a specialized pump designed to transfer fuels and oils from one container to another, such as from a storage tank to a vehicle or equipment.  Shop additional fuel transfer pumps today.

Industry: Fuel and oil transfer pumps are widely used in industries such as automotive, marine, construction, agriculture, and oil and gas. They are essential for refueling vehicles, equipment, generators, and machinery.

Top Manufacturers: Fill-Rite (Tuthill Corporation), GPI (Great Plains Industries), Piusi, Graco, PIUSI.

26. Machine Tool and Parts Washer Pump:

Definition: A machine tool and parts washer pump is a specialized pump used in machine tool applications for coolant circulation and parts washing processes.

Industry: Machine tool and parts washer pumps are commonly used in industries such as manufacturing, metalworking, automotive, aerospace, and precision engineering. They play a crucial role in providing coolant to machine tools for temperature control and lubrication, as well as in cleaning parts during the manufacturing or maintenance process.

Top Manufacturers: Grundfos, Barnes Pumps (Crane Pumps & Systems), Houghton International, Oberdorfer Pumps, Roper Pump Company.

27. Magnetic Drive Pump:

Definition: A magnetic drive pump, also known as a mag-drive pump, is a type of pump that uses a magnetic coupling to transfer power from the motor to the impeller, eliminating the need for a traditional mechanical seal.

Industry: Magnetic drive pumps are widely used in industries where leak-free operation is critical, such as chemical processing, pharmaceuticals, semiconductor manufacturing, water treatment, and food and beverage.

Top Manufacturers: Iwaki, March Pump, Richter Chemie-Technik, Sundyne HMD Kontro, Finish Thompson.

28. Marine and RV Pumps:

Definition: Marine and RV pumps are specialized pumps designed for use in marine vessels, boats, and recreational vehicles (RVs) to handle various fluid transfer and circulation needs, such as water supply, bilge pumping, sanitation, and fuel transfer.

Industry: Marine and RV pumps are primarily used in the boating and recreational vehicle industries for applications such as freshwater system circulation, wastewater management, deck and bilge pumping, fuel transfer, and toilet waste evacuation.

Top Manufacturers: Jabsco (Xylem), SHURflo (Pentair), Whale, Attwood, Johnson Pump (SPX Flow).

29. Spray Pump:

Definition: A spray pump, also known as a sprayer pump, is a pump specifically designed for spraying liquids, typically used in applications such as agriculture, gardening, pest control, and industrial spraying.

Industry: Spray pumps are widely used in industries such as agriculture (crop spraying), landscaping, horticulture, pest control, automotive, and industrial surface coating.

Top Manufacturers: Hudson, Chapin International, Solo Incorporated, Fimco Industries, Jacto.

30. Submersible and Sump Pumps:

Definition: Submersible pumps and sump pumps are types of pumps designed to be fully submerged in water or other fluids for efficient pumping and drainage purposes.

Industry: Submersible and sump pumps find applications in various industries and sectors, including residential, commercial, industrial, construction, wastewater management, and stormwater drainage.

Top Manufacturers: Zoeller Pump Company, Liberty Pumps, Wayne Pumps, Ebara Corporation, Grundfos.

31. Sump Effluent and Sewage Pumps:

Definition: Sump effluent pumps and sewage pumps are specialized pumps designed to handle and move wastewater, including effluent and sewage, from sump pits or sewage systems to appropriate disposal locations.

Industry: Sump effluent and sewage pumps are commonly used in residential, commercial, and industrial settings, as well as municipal wastewater treatment facilities, to efficiently manage and transport wastewater.

Top Manufacturers: Zoeller Pump Company, Liberty Pumps, Little Giant (Franklin Electric), Myers Pumps, Goulds Pumps (Xylem).

Common Symptoms of Pump Problems:

Reduced Flow Rate:

Description: The pump's flow rate decreases below the expected level.

Repairability: Usually repairable by addressing causes like clogged pipes, worn impellers, or damaged seals.

Urgency: Depends on the severity; immediate attention may be required if critical system operations are affected.

Increased Noise/Vibration:

Description: Unusual noises or excessive vibration during pump operation.

Repairability: Repairable in most cases by balancing impellers, replacing worn parts, or addressing misalignment.

Urgency: Should be investigated promptly to prevent further damage or system failure.

Leakage:

Description: Visible leaks around the pump or along the piping system.

Repairability: Repairable by replacing worn gaskets, seals, or faulty connections.

Urgency: Should be addressed promptly to prevent fluid loss, contamination, or safety hazards.

Overheating:

Description: The pump's temperature rises beyond the normal operating range.

Repairability: Repairable by addressing issues like low coolant levels, insufficient lubrication, or faulty motor.

Urgency: Requires immediate attention to avoid pump damage or system failures.

Cavitation:

Description: Formation of air bubbles or vapor pockets due to low pressure in the pump.

Repairability: Repairable by modifying the system design, increasing suction pressure, or using anti-cavitation measures.

Urgency: Should be resolved promptly to prevent damage to impellers, reduced efficiency, or system failure.

Excessive Power Consumption:

Description: The pump consumes more power than usual during operation.

Repairability: Repairable by addressing causes like impeller damage, bearing issues, or motor inefficiencies.

Urgency: Should be investigated promptly to prevent energy wastage and potential equipment failure.

Frequent Tripping of Motor Overload:

Description: The motor overload protection frequently trips during pump operation.

Repairability: Repairable by checking for motor or pump mechanical issues, voltage imbalances, or excessive load.

Urgency: Requires immediate attention to prevent motor damage or electrical hazards.

Erratic Pressure Fluctuations:

Description: The pump delivers inconsistent or fluctuating pressure levels.

Repairability: Repairable by inspecting pressure regulators, valves, or addressing issues with pump control systems.

Urgency: Depends on the severity; if critical processes are affected, immediate attention may be necessary.

Excessive Heat Generation:

Description: The pump generates excessive heat during operation, affecting surrounding components.

Repairability: Repairable by inspecting cooling systems, lubrication, or addressing pump efficiency issues.

Urgency: Requires attention to prevent overheating, equipment damage, or safety hazards.

Unusual Odors:

Description: Strong or unusual odors emitted from the pump or its vicinity.

Repairability: Repairable by investigating potential fluid leaks, contamination, or chemical reactions.

Urgency: Should be investigated promptly to prevent hazards, system failures, or health risks.

Abnormal Vibration Patterns:

Description: Irregular or unusual vibration patterns during pump operation.

Repairability: Repairable by balancing impellers, checking for misalignment, or inspecting bearings.

Urgency: Should be investigated promptly to prevent damage to pump components or surrounding equipment.

Sudden Loss of Prime:

Description: The pump loses its prime, causing a disruption in the fluid transfer process.

Repairability: Repairable by inspecting suction line leaks, valve issues, or addressing system design problems.

Urgency: Requires immediate attention to restore proper pump operation and prevent system inefficiencies.

Excessive Noises in Bearings:

Description: Unusual or loud noises emanating from pump bearings.

Repairability: Repairable by lubricating bearings, replacing worn parts, or addressing alignment issues.

Urgency: Should be investigated promptly to prevent bearing failure, increased wear, or catastrophic breakdown.

Excessive Shaft Deflection:

Description: The pump's shaft exhibits excessive bending or deflection during operation.

Repairability: Repairable by checking for misalignment, worn bearings, or addressing system load issues.

Urgency: Requires attention to prevent further shaft damage, seal failures, or pump inefficiencies.

Decreased Efficiency:

Description: The pump's overall efficiency decreases, leading to reduced performance.

Repairability: Repairable by addressing issues such as worn impellers, improper sizing, or system design flaws.

Urgency: Depends on the severity; if significant energy loss occurs, prompt action may be necessary.

Intermittent Operation:

Description: The pump operates intermittently, inconsistently supplying fluid.

Repairability: Repairable by inspecting control systems, sensors, or addressing electrical issues.

Urgency: Depends on the application; critical systems may require immediate attention to maintain operation.

Excessive Shaft Seal Leakage:

Description: The pump's shaft seal exhibits significant leakage.

Repairability: Repairable by replacing worn seals, adjusting seal settings, or addressing misalignment.

Urgency: Should be addressed promptly to prevent fluid loss, contamination, or damage to surrounding equipment.

Loss of Suction:

Description: The pump fails to maintain suction, impeding the flow of fluid.

Repairability: Repairable by checking for clogged suction lines, addressing air leaks, or adjusting system settings.

Urgency: Requires attention to restore proper pump operation and prevent system inefficiencies.

Abrasive Wear:

Description: Components of the pump experience excessive wear due to abrasive particles in the fluid.

Repairability: Repairable by using wear-resistant materials, implementing filtration systems, or adjusting fluid properties.

Urgency: Depends on the severity; continued operation may cause further damage or reduced pump lifespan.

Excessive Shaft Runout:

Description: The pump's shaft exhibits excessive lateral movement during operation.

Repairability: Repairable by inspecting bearings, addressing alignment issues, or replacing worn parts.

Urgency: Requires attention to prevent seal failures, impeller damage, or bearing wear.

Excessive Impeller Wear:

Description: The impeller shows signs of significant wear, affecting pump performance.

Repairability: Repairable by replacing worn impellers or adjusting impeller clearances.

Urgency: Depends on the severity; continued operation may result in reduced efficiency or impeller failure.

Electrical Issues:

Description: The pump experiences electrical problems such as motor tripping, erratic operation, or power supply issues.

Repairability: Repairable by inspecting electrical connections, addressing motor faults, or replacing faulty components.

Urgency: Requires attention to prevent motor damage, electrical hazards, or system failures.

Excessive Shaft Misalignment:

Description: The pump's shaft exhibits misalignment, causing issues with coupling, bearings, or seals.

Repairability: Repairable by realigning the shaft, adjusting couplings, or replacing misaligned components.

Urgency: Requires attention to prevent further damage, bearing wear, or seal failures.

Corrosion:

Description: The pump or its components show signs of corrosion, often due to fluid characteristics or environmental factors.

Repairability: Repairable by using corrosion-resistant materials, implementing protective coatings, or adjusting fluid properties.

Urgency: Depends on the severity; continued exposure may lead to component failure or compromised system integrity.

Excessive Power Surges:

Description: The pump experiences sudden power surges or fluctuations during operation.

Repairability: Repairable by addressing issues with power supply, electrical wiring, or using surge protection devices.

Urgency: Requires investigation to prevent motor damage, electrical hazards, or equipment malfunctions.

Excessive Vortexing:

Description: The pump creates a vortex or whirlpool effect in the fluid, affecting its flow and efficiency.

Repairability: Repairable by adjusting system design, installing vortex breakers, or modifying inlet configurations.

Urgency: Depends on the severity; immediate attention may be required to prevent further efficiency loss or damage.

Motor Overheating:

Description: The pump's motor reaches excessively high temperatures during operation.

Repairability: Repairable by addressing issues like insufficient cooling, motor faults, or electrical problems.

Urgency: Requires immediate attention to prevent motor damage, safety hazards, or system failures.

Excessive Noise in Motor:

Description: Unusual or loud noises originating from the pump's motor.

Repairability: Repairable by inspecting motor components, addressing bearing issues, or motor faults.

Urgency: Should be investigated promptly to prevent motor failure, equipment damage, or system disruptions.

Seal Failure:

Description: The pump's seals fail, resulting in leaks, reduced efficiency, or loss of prime.

Repairability: Repairable by replacing worn or damaged seals and ensuring proper installation.

Urgency: Requires attention to prevent fluid loss, contamination, or damage to surrounding equipment.

Excessive Vibrations in Motor:

Description: The pump's motor exhibits excessive vibrations during operation.

Repairability: Repairable by inspecting motor mounts, addressing mechanical issues, or balancing components.

Urgency: Should be investigated promptly to prevent motor damage, increased wear, or system failures.

Summary:

Being able to detect and diagnose problems with commonly used pumps is crucial for maintaining efficient operations in various industries. By familiarizing yourself with the symptoms and understanding repair options, you can address issues promptly and avoid costly downtime. Remember, regular maintenance and proper care are key to maximizing the lifespan and performance of your pumps. And when it comes to shopping for pumps, repairs, or replacements, GoVets offers a reliable platform to meet your requirements efficiently.

Shopping for Pumps and Accessories on GoVets:

GoVets is an online marketplace that offers a wide range of pumps, accessories, repair parts, and replacement options for customers in the USA. With an extensive catalog of top manufacturers and suppliers, GoVets provides a convenient platform for sourcing pumps across various industries. Customers can browse through the comprehensive product listings, compare prices, read reviews, and make informed purchasing decisions. Whether you require a new pump, repair parts, or replacements, GoVets simplifies the procurement process and ensures access to reliable products.