Eccentric Disc Pumps

The operating principle of eccentric disc pumps 

Eccentric disc pumps are a type of positive displacement pump that operates using a unique design consisting of a disc-shaped rotor that rotates eccentrically within a stationary housing. As the rotor turns, the eccentric motion creates a constant flow, which enables the pump to handle viscous, abrasive, and shear-sensitive fluids with ease. 

Eccentric disc pumps consist of a cylinder and pumping element mounted on an eccentric shaft. As the eccentric shaft is rotated, the pumping element forms chambers within the cylinder, which increase in size at the intake port, drawing fluid into the pumping chamber. The fluid is transported to the discharge port where the pumping chamber size is decreased. This action squeezes the fluid out into the discharge piping. The crescent-shaped design of the chambers ensures that there is a continuous flow of fluid through the pump, minimizing turbulence and reducing wear on the pump components. 

The disc-shaped rotor has a series of slots or vanes that engage with the pump's housing, creating a seal that prevents fluid from flowing back into the suction chamber. The eccentric motion of the rotor also creates a squeezing action that helps to move the fluid through the pump. 

Eccentric disc pumps are ideally suited for a variety of sanitary applications that require a consistent, non-pulsing flow and gentle fluid handling with low shear rates. From thin liquids to highly viscous substances, such as slurries and pastes. They are also ideal for pumping shear-sensitive materials, such as polymers and food products, as they minimize the risk of degradation. The eccentric disc pump excel in the hygienic applications that are common in food-and-beverage, pharmaceutical and cosmetics manufacturing because they have been designed to conform with the most prevalent regulatory sanitary standards while providing gentle product handling, superior containment, and easy maintenance. 

Advantages of eccentric disc pumps 

• Eccentric disc pumps offer numerous advantages over other types of pumps, making them an ideal choice for many industrial applications. Some of the key advantages of using eccentric disc pumps include: 
• High efficiency: Eccentric disc pumps are designed to operate with a high degree of efficiency, making them ideal for applications where energy efficiency is important. Their simple design and positive displacement action result in minimal energy loss during operation. 
• Versatility: Eccentric disc pumps can handle a wide range of fluids, from thin liquids to highly viscous substances, such as slurries and pastes. They can also handle fluids with varying levels of solids content, making them ideal for applications in the chemical, food, and pharmaceutical industries. 

• Low shear: Eccentric disc pumps offer a low-shear pumping action, which makes them ideal for pumping shear-sensitive fluids, such as polymers and food products. The gentle pumping action minimizes the risk of degradation or damage to the fluid being pumped. 
• Minimal pulsation: The pulsating flow generated by eccentric disc pumps is minimal to non-existing, compared to other types of positive displacement pumps, resulting in a smoother flow and reduced risk of damage to downstream equipment. 
• Self-priming: Eccentric disc pumps are self-priming, meaning they can create a vacuum in the suction line and draw fluid into the pump without the need for external priming. 
• Able to pump air: The eccentric disc pump is also able to pump air, which creates a vacuum effect on the pump's suction side and a compressor effect on the discharge side. 

Industries and applications that uses eccentric disc pumps 

Eccentric disc pumps are utilized across a broad spectrum of industries and applications due to their superior operational characteristics. These pumps are commonly found in high-performance liquid handling systems where precise and consistent flow rates are required. Some of the most common industries that employ eccentric disc pumps include chemical processing, pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, and oil and gas. 

In chemical processing applications, eccentric disc pumps are utilized for the transfer of corrosive, viscous, and abrasive fluids. These pumps are designed to handle aggressive chemicals and can operate at high temperatures and pressures. Similarly, in the pharmaceutical industry, eccentric disc pumps are utilized for the precise and hygienic transfer of sensitive materials such as vaccines and biologics. 

Eccentric disc pumps are also employed in the food and beverage industry for the transfer of liquids with high solids content or viscosity. These pumps can handle products ranging from fruit juices to tomato paste, making them a popular choice in the processing of food products. Finally, in the oil and gas industry, eccentric disc pumps are used for the transfer of drilling muds and other fluids in high-pressure drilling applications. 

Important considerations when selecting eccentric disc pumps 

When selecting eccentric disc pumps, there are several important considerations that must be considered in order to ensure optimal performance and efficiency. Firstly, the type of fluid being pumped must be carefully evaluated, as this will have a significant impact on the pump's material and design requirements. 

Secondly, the operating conditions must be thoroughly assessed, including the pressure, temperature, and flow rate of the fluid being pumped. This information is critical in determining the appropriate pump size and specifications necessary to achieve the desired level of performance. 

Other key considerations include the pump's durability, reliability, and maintenance requirements, as well as the level of automation and control required for the application at hand. Additionally, factors such as noise, vibration, and energy efficiency must also be considered to ensure the most effective and efficient pump solution is selected. 

Ultimately, the selection of eccentric disc pumps requires a detailed understanding of the specific application requirements, as well as a deep knowledge of pump engineering and design principles, in order to ensure optimal performance and reliability. 

Why buy eccentric disc pumps from AxFlow? 

AxFlow provides eccentric disc pumps that cater to an extensive variety of industries and applications. Exclusive to AxFlow, you will be provided with personalized recommendations from highly experienced process engineers, and access to the most prominent process technology manufacturers that are independent of the manufacturer. If you require assistance in selecting the appropriate pumps that satisfy your requirements, feel free to contact AxFlow without any delay. AxFlows engineers and specialists can help with the selection process, specifications, installation, and maintenance of your fluid handling equipment.