In almost all industries, fluids are transported at high temperatures. Understanding the effects of hot liquids on your pumps will help ensure the long life of your industrial pumps. Using a standard pump to pump liquids at high temperatures can lead to a variety of problems, such as leaking seals and damaged actuators.
Below are some typical applications for pumps in which they pump liquids and liquids at high temperatures.
| Type of liquid/liquid | Process description | Samples |
| hardens at room temperature | Sometimes solids are heated to room temperature to make them move faster. | Molasses, asphalt, palm oil, fat |
| Liquids that heat up during a specific process | Sometimes liquids are heated to initiate, speed up, or support a particular reaction. | Heat carrier, cooking oil, boiler feeding, steam condensate |
The temperature of liquids/fluids varies greatly. The temperature range can be from 110°C to 400°C. Let’s take a look at how high-temperature fluids affect industrial pumps.
Effect of High Fluid Temperature on External Pump
The exterior parts of an industrial pump are those that are visible from the outside. Outdoors, these parts are exposed to external weather conditions.
The choice of a suitable external part of the pump depends on the following factors: resistance to corrosion and dimensional change due to thermal expansion, resistance to thermal shock, etc. Thermal shock occurs when the external parts of the pump are subjected to sudden changes in temperature. In many industrial applications, it is possible to feed a preheated liquid into a cold pump. The outer material selected must be able to withstand thermal shock. Choosing a material that is not resistant to thermal shock can cause the external components of the pump to crack.
The following are some standard exterior materials of pumps and their ability to withstand thermal shocks:
Cast iron is commonly used in pumps that pump hot liquids. However, it has low temperature resistance and can only withstand exposure to liquids at temperatures up to 345°C.
Low carbon cast steel is highly resistant to thermal shock and can easily withstand liquid temperatures up to 425°C.
Effects of high-temperature liquids on the internal parts of the pump
In addition to the external parts, the internal parts of the pump must also be able to withstand high temperatures. When choosing internal components, thermal shock does not matter. This is because internal parts are not usually subject to sudden temperature changes like external parts. An important factor to consider when choosing internal components for high temperature pumps is dimensional change due to thermal expansion. Why this factor is important are as follows: The distance to the pump plays an important role in determining the maximum efficiency of the pump. The high temperature of the liquid causes the internal metal parts of the pump to expand. This reduces the internal clearances, which reduces the efficiency of the pump. When choosing a pump that normally pumps liquids at high temperatures, you should make sure that it has an additional internal clearance. Speed thermal expansion varies depending on the material used.
Effect of High Fluid Temperature on Pump Seals
Seals play an important role in ensuring fluid retention in the pump. The sealing part becomes more important, especially when handling fluids at high temperatures. Mechanical seals are used in pumps for the following reasons: No leakage. They do not require external lubrication. It can be easily replaced. It reduces shaft wear. It does not require external adjustments.
The choice of the right seal depends on the temperature of the fluid being pumped.
Here are some factors to consider: Maximum temperature of the fluid to be pumped. Coolant preparation is done by pumping or flushing the seal to cool the outer surfaces of the seal and reduce the formation of deposits. In addition to the seal material, another factor to consider is its location. By placing the seal at the bottom of the string, away from the internal pumping chamber, the compaction temperature can be reduced by about 40°C.
However , it should be noted that no two pump applications are the same. If your industry requires fluids and petroleum products for pumping at high temperatures, please contact our Allflo sales team.
Send us a short email to sales@allflo.com.au with your requirements and we will help you find the right one for your needs.
Alflow Pump is one of the leading suppliers of pumps and accessories.
With over 70 years of combined experience and a manufacturing facility in Shepparton, Victoria, Alflo Pumps & Equipment offers a wide range of high-quality pumps and equipment for a variety of needs in the infrastructure, construction, water treatment, mining and food industries. Manufacturing of all types buildings, including commercial and other businesses.