Metering Pumps: A Practical Guide to Selection and Use
Metering pumps accurately control chemical dosing in industrial applications. These reliable pumps maintain steady flow rates, making them essential for:
- Water treatment plants
- Chemical processing
- Oil and gas operations
Expert Recommendations
“Proper pump selection depends on your specific needs,” explains David, a Meacon senior engineer. First, consider the chemicals you’ll handle. Then examine flow rate requirements.
Metering Pump Types
Diaphragm Pumps
Three main types exist:
- Electromagnetic
- Mechanical
- Hydraulic
Best for: Corrosive liquids but may have limited flow capacity.
Piston Pumps
These pumps handle:
- High pressure
- Large flow volumes
Note: They wear faster and don’t resist chemicals well.
Hybrid Pumps
Combining the best features:
- Handles 3000 L/h flow rates
- ±1% accuracy
- Works with corrosive liquids
Key System Components
To ensure proper operation, include these critical parts:
Back pressure valves
Improve accuracy and stop siphoning
Pressure relief valves
Prevent dangerous overpressure
Pulsation dampeners
Create smooth fluid flow
Check valves
Maintain proper flow direction
Common Problems and Solutions
Problem:
Inaccurate dosing
Fix:
Add a back-pressure valve near injection point
Problem:
Pulsation issues
Fix:
Use a dampener sized at 6-20 times stroke volume
!
Important: Never exceed the pump’s pressure rating.
Material Selection Guide
Match materials to your chemicals:
| Chemical | Recommended Materials |
|---|---|
| Fluoride | PVC with Viton® seals |
| Hydrogen Peroxide | PTFE or stainless steel |
| Sulfuric Acid | PTFE throughout |
Choosing the Right Pump
Consider these critical factors:
Fluid Details
- Required flow rate (L/h)
- Operating pressure (bar/psi)
- Chemical composition and viscosity
Installation Needs
- Available space constraints
- Suction conditions and lift requirements
- Safety certifications (ATEX, etc.)
For complex applications, consult with our pump specialists to ensure optimal selection.
Need Help Selecting a Pump?
Our engineers can recommend the best solution tailored to your specific requirements.
Post time: Apr-21-2025