When it comes to sanitary pumps, you have two primary options in the market today. The first is a sanitary centrifugal pump and the second is a positive displacement pump. These are both extremely common options, and they both offer their own benefits. However, making a choice between the two can be a bit tricky at times.
There’s a Difference in the Rate of Flow
One of the first fundamental differences between the two is the variation in the rate of the flow compared to pressure. With a sanitary centrifugal pump, the flow will change in relation to the amount of pressure. In contrast, a positive displacement pump will mostly maintain a continuous flow despite any changes in pressure that may occur.
That’s not to say the positive displacement pump never changes its rate of flow. Viscosity will change the flow rate of both types but in different ways. A sanitary centrifugal pump will lose its flow as the viscosity increases. A positive displacement pump will increase flow with the increase in viscosity.
Differences Stem from Their Design
These pumps act differently under certain conditions because they are designed differently. The centrifugal pump works using an impeller that is rotating to pull fluid in and push it out. A positive displacement pump works by capturing liquid and pushing the volume that has been trapped.
Their variations in design result in high-efficiency levels in different situations. A centrifugal pump works best in conditions with high levels of flow. A positive displacement pump is ideal in circumstances where higher pressure is necessary.
They Each Serve a Purpose
Both of these pump types serve important purposes. The centrifugal pump is still the most common pump used to move fluids through pipes. This is because they work exceptionally well under most conditions, they are easy to install, and they are easy to maintain.
