Industrial Pump Capacities & Flow Chart

Pumps
4:09 pm

The selection of the right industrial pump shapes the operations of numerous companies. These pumps are fundamental to efficient operations in various business sectors, including agriculture, manufacturing, mining, and municipal services. These versatile machines effectively manage fluids across diverse applications, improving productivity and safety.

However, when choosing a pump for industrial systems, selecting the right size for the system’s specific pressure and flow rate requirements is essential. A key factor to consider when sizing a commercial pump is the total dynamic head (TDH) requirement. TDH significantly indicates the level of resistance that a liquid will face when traveling through the pumping system.

To explore various pump options suitable for different systems, check out our A Guide to Different Types of Industrial Pumps and make an informed choice.

Factors to Taken In Account When Selecting an Industrial Pump

Multiple attributes play a key role in determining the right size of the pump. Whether you need a commercial pump or a water well pump, understanding the relationship between pump flow capacity, total dynamic head (TDH), and other essential parameters will help you make an informed decision. Let’s discuss them one by one.

Flow Rate

The flow rate of the pump, typically measured in gallons per minute (GPM), is among the most critical factors in pump selection. It determines the volume of liquid that the pump can handle and influences the pipe size required for optimal operation.

Solid Size

If the fluid contains solid particles, their size must be within the impeller clearance of the 4 well pumps to prevent clogging and damage.

For more on choosing the right pump for your system, check out our detailed guide on Pump Selection & Sizing to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Pump Style

You can select pumps in various styles according to your requirements. Centrifugal pumps are ideal for high-flow applications, using impellers to move liquid efficiently. Positive Displacement Pumps are used for handling viscous fluids or slurries. Lastly, submersible pumps are completely submerged in fluid and are perfect for dewatering or wastewater applications. All these types of pumps have distinctive features, which make them valuable for specific applications.

Friction Loss

As liquid moves through the system, friction occurs between the fluid and the pipe walls. High viscosity fluids experience greater friction loss, affecting the overall efficiency of the system. Most industrial pump suppliers give this formula to calculate friction loss:

Friction loss = (coefficient) x (flow rate/100)² x (hose length/100)

Total Dynamic Head (TDH)

TDH represents the total pressure required to move the fluid through the system. It means it depends on vertical rise. It means the height difference from the source to the discharge point. Another factor is friction loss, which is resistance due to pipe length and bends. Lastly, system components like valves, fittings, and filters add to the TDH.

Horsepower Requirement

The pump’s horsepower depends on the required flow rate and the resistance within the system. Positive displacement pumps, for instance, require different calculations compared to centrifugal pumps.

Suction Head (NPSH)

The Net Positive Suction Head (NPSH) is primarily the difference between the inlet and the lowest pressure inside the pump. If the NPSH is too low, cavitation may occur, causing damage and reduced efficiency.

Discharge Pipe Size & Flow Rate

The discharge pipe size must align with the pump’s outlet to ensure smooth operation. Additionally, selecting a pump with the correct discharge flow rate (GPM) is essential for preventing system inefficiencies.

Importance of Accurate Pump Sizing

Choosing the right industrial pump solutions is not just about meeting immediate needs but long-term operational efficiency. A pump that is too small may struggle to maintain flow, while an oversized pump can lead to excessive energy consumption and wear. Additionally, improper sizing may result in sediment buildup when pumping fluids containing solids, leading to potential blockages.

To better understand the accurate pump size, you must also learn about its multiple types. Different applications require different pump types. Here’s an overview of the most common options.

Sludge Pumps are used for handling dense, abrasive, or highly viscous materials such as sludge and slurry. These pumps prevent clogging and ensure smooth operation.
Storm & Flood Pumps are essential for flood management and drainage. These pumps efficiently remove large volumes of water, making them crucial for infrastructure resilience.
Vertical and floating Water Pumps are ideal for water transfer applications. They are recommended for permanent installations or areas requiring a vertical configuration.
Centrifugal Pumps features a simple design. Centrifugal pumps use impellers to move fluids quickly. They are ideal for large-scale industrial applications that require high flow rates.
Submersible Pumps can be fully deluged in the liquid they pump. These 4 submersible water well pumps are commonly used for wastewater management, dewatering, and deep well applications.
Lastly, Positive Displacement Pumps are designed to handle thick, high-viscosity liquids. These pumps operate through mechanical displacement mechanisms such as gears and impellers.

Industrial Pump Flow Chart

To help with pump selection, refer to the following flow chart, which outlines the discharge flow rate at different elevations.

Pump Size/RPM	0 ft Elevation (GPM)	15 ft Elevation (GPM)	30 ft Elevation (GPM)	45 ft Elevation (GPM)	60 ft Elevation (GPM)
4″ 540 RPM	1100	900	800	500	200
6″ 540 RPM	2100	2000	1800	1300	1000
6″ 1000 RPM	3600	3400	3100	2700	2200
8″ 540 RPM	4200	4000	3800	3400	2900
8″ 1000 RPM	7200	6800	6400	5900	5300

This table helps us understand how elevation impacts the pump flow capacity. Choosing the correct pump size and RPM is essential if a system requires a specific flow rate at a given height.

Bottom Line

The selection process of the right industrial pump size while understanding its capacity and flow chart can confuse most of you. But with this guide, you can cover up multiple mistakes and make the best decision for your industrial needs. In addition, working with a trusted supplier will also help you make an informed decision that boosts the productivity and security of your business operations.

If you are on the quest to find a durable source of pumps for your next project, trust Permik Industrial. Our Industrial supply company can guide you through selecting the tight commercial pumps and pump sizes that suit your needs. We also have a variety of custom and specialty pumps to make sure the smooth flow of your industrial operations.