How to choose gear pumps for refineries

In refineries, gear pumps are a common liquid transfer equipment mainly used to transport various petroleum products and chemical raw materials.

Due to the unique working environment of refineries, there are strict requirements for the selection of gear pumps. The following are the main factors that refineries should consider when choosing gear pumps:

1. Medium characteristics: Firstly, it is necessary to understand the properties of the medium to be transported, including viscosity, temperature, corrosiveness, and the presence of solid particles. Media with different characteristics require different materials and structural designs.

2. Flow and pressure requirements: Determine the required flow and head (or outlet pressure) based on the process flow to ensure that the gear pump can operate efficiently at the required operating point.

3. Safety performance: Considering the flammable and explosive environment of the refinery, priority should be given to selecting pump types with explosion-proof certification, and ensuring that the pump design complies with relevant safety standards, such as API676 standard.

4. Corrosion resistance and wear resistance: Choose materials that can resist medium corrosion and wear, such as stainless steel, duplex steel, tungsten carbide, etc., to extend the service life of the pump.

5. Maintenance convenience: Choosing a design that is easy to disassemble and repair can reduce downtime and maintenance costs.

6. Efficiency and energy consumption: High efficiency gear pumps not only save energy consumption, but also reduce operating costs.

7. Supplier reputation and after-sales service: Choose manufacturers with good market reputation and enterprises that provide comprehensive after-sales support and services.

8. Compatibility: Ensure that the newly selected gear pump is compatible with existing pipeline systems and other equipment, avoiding additional modification costs.

9. Cost benefit analysis: Taking into account both initial purchase costs and long-term operation and maintenance costs, make a cost-effective decision.

In summary, when choosing a gear pump, it is not only necessary to pay attention to its technical parameters, but also to conduct a comprehensive evaluation based on actual working conditions and economic benefits.

By carefully considering the above factors, it can help refineries choose gear pumps that meet both process requirements and are economically efficient.