Factors in pump selection

The selection of a pump depends on many factors which include the required rate and properties of the pumped liquid and the desired location of the pump. 

Wear is a more serious problem with positive displacement pumps than with centrifugal pumps. Liquids with poor lubricating qualities increase the wear on a pump. Wear is also caused by corrosion and by the pumping of liquids containing suspended solids which are abrasive. 

In general, centrifugal pumps are less expensive, last longer and are more robust than positive displacement pumps. However, they are unsuitable for pumping high viscosity liquids and when changes in viscosity occur. 

Diskind, T., Solve muliple hookups graphically, Chemical Engineering, 66 p. 102 (2 Nov 1959). 

Holland, F.A. and Chapman, F.S., Pumping of Liquids, New York, Reinhold Publishing Corporation (1966). 

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