Micropumps for high-precision liquids transfer

Saving space and reducing weight are often key challenges facing machine builders and designers. When OEM applications require high-precision liquids transfer, there is a range of external gear pumps that are highly effective. Available from Michael Smith Engineers, Micropump external gear pumps are offered in nine series covering flow rates from as low as ml/hr and as high as 40 lit/min, at maximum discharge pressures between 5.2 and 8.5 bar, depending on the model and the fluid.

This extensive range of pumps, combined with the variety of available options, enables engineers to specify a pump that matches the application requirements, without having to compromise on any aspect of performance. For example, special versions are available for pumping liquids in high-pressure applications. Also, the pumps are available with wetted parts in a choice of materials, including stainless steel and Hastelloy, while different gear materials can be specified to suit the liquid being pumped and the duty parameters. Pumps can also be supplied with different porting arrangements.

All models have magnet drives to prevent leakage of the process fluid - giving users the benefit of reduced environmental, health and safety, and chemical handling issues. The external gear design provides the benefit of a smooth, pulse-free and highly accurate output, so the distribution of the process liquid is even and constant, which is in contrast to more unpredictable pulsed flows from other types of pump.

Control options

The output of the pumps can be adjusted by altering the motor speed, while control options depend on the motor/drive specified. These include 0-5V DC or 4-20mA, or RS232 automatic control; manual control via a potentiometer can also be specified.

Many of the Micropumps use an innovative internal pressure-loaded suction shoe that enables the pump to self-compensate for wear and maintain high volumetric efficiency, even at high operating pressures. In addition, by reducing the number of parts needed for operation to an absolute minimum, the suction shoe design minimises downtime and simplifies servicing.

Recent applications for Micropumps have included dosing additives to animal feed to prevent contamination and infection, transferring liquids in specialist fuel cell development prototype work, and pumping diesel exhaust fluid into exhaust gases to reduce emissions of nitrous oxides from diesel generators.

Follow the link for more information about Micropumps for high-precision liquids transfer.