The screw pump is one of the types of centrifugal pumps used to transfer fluid with high pressure and low flow rate.in industry processes, increasing the efficiency and reliability of fluid transfer is very important, and screw pumps are widely used in the industry due to their reliability and high efficiency. In this article, we introduce and review the types of industrial screw pumps and also analyze the design, performance, applications and advantages of these pumps compared to other types of pumps.
What is an industrial screw pump?
Industrial screw pumps, also known as spindle screw pumps or rotary positive displacement pumps, are powerful industrial pumps designed to transfer high pressure fluids in industrial processes.
A screw pump consists of a helical rotor, called a spindle, that rotates inside a cylindrical cavity. This rotor traps the fluid from the pump inlet and transfers it to the pump outlet by increasing the pressure.
The screw pump performs the pumping action continuously and gently , and for this reason, it is very suitable for transferring viscous fluids, abrasive slurries and sensitive fluids that shouldnot be subjected to shear force.
Design of screw pump
The rotor of a screw pump is made of hardened steel or corrosion- resistant alloys and has precision spiral threads that engage with the internal cavity of the pump. This cavity is precisely designed to match the geometry of the rotor . by having a precise fit, there is minimal clearance between the rotor and the cavity walls. As the rotor rotates within the cavity, the fluid is displaced along the helical threads of the rotor, creating a smooth, uniform flow.
Types of screw pumps
1. mono screw or single rotor screw pump
Single- screw pumps, also known as progressive cavity pumps or eccentric spiral pumps, consist of a single spiral rotor that rotates inside a double- walled stator.
These pumps transfer the flow in a gentle manner without causing pulsation in it, and for this reason, they are suitable for moving shear- sensitive fluids and applications that require precise flow control.
2. double screw,screw pump
Twin screw screw pumps have two connected helical rotors that rotate in a housing. The rotors have opposite directions of rotation. As the rotors rotate, the fluid is trapped and transported axially along the threads of the rotors, resulting in a continuous, pulsating flow.
Double screw pumps are suitable for use in the oil and gas, marine, and chemical industries due to their high efficiency, self- priming capability, and ability to support a wide range of viscosities.
3. three- screw screw pump
Triple screw pumps consist of three helical rotors that are concentrically placed inside a cylindrical housing. Two primary rotors are placed on either side of a smaller central rotor. As the rotors rotate, the fluid is transferred axially along the threads of the rotors, resulting in a smooth and continuous flow.
Three- screw screw pumps have advantages such as high efficiency, low pulsation and precise flow control, which make them suitable for applications that require high pressure pumping and flow rate maintenance, such as fuel transfer, hydraulic systems and lubrication systems.
4. multi screw screw pump (quintoplex and septoplex)
Multiscrew pumps have four or more intermeshing helical rotors arranged in a cross configuration in a common housing . these pumps are capable of producing multiple flow channels, resulting in high flow rates and uniform pressure distribution.
Quintuplex pumps have five rotors, while septoplex pumps have seven rotors, and both constructions offer greater pumping capacity and efficiency compared to single or twin screw pumps.
The multi- screw screw pump is commonly used in applications that require high flow rates and precise pressure control, such as oil and gas pipelines, chemical processing plants, and water treatment facilities.
5. Archimedean screw pump
Archimedean screw pumps, also known as Archimedes screw pumps, are pumps that date back to ancient Greece and Egypt . these pumps consist of a spiral rotor that is installed inside a recess or chamber at an angle inclined to the horizon.
As the rotor rotates, it carries the fluid from the lower end to the higher end, where it is discharged. Archimedean screw pumps are commonly used to provide head and convey water, sewage and other fluids in applications such as irrigation, drainage and sewage pumping.
Applications of screw pump
Industrial Screw pumps are widely used in a wide range of industries due to their versatility , reliability and efficiency. In the following, we examine some of the important applications of these types of pumps in the industry.
1. chemical production and processing processes
Screw pumps are widely used in chemical manufacturing and processing processes to transfer corrosive chemicals (anti- acid pumps), viscous polymers and abrasive slurries. Their strong structure and compatibility with all types of fluids make them ideal for use in chemical facilities.
2. oil and gas industries
In the oil and gas industry, screw pumps are used to transport crude oil, refined products, and drilling fluids. Screw pumps have the ability to transfer fluids with high viscosity and abrasive particles, and this feature has made them known as oil and gas industry pumps.
3. food production industries
Screw pumps play an important role in the food and beverage industry, facilitating the transfer of viscous food products such as syrups, sauces, and dairy products. The hygienic design, ease of maintenance, and gentle pumping action of auger pumps are very useful in food processing and packaging.
4. marine and offshore applications
Screw pumps are widely used in marine and offshore applications including ship fuel transfer, ballast water management and offshore drilling operations. Compact structure and design, high reliability , and the ability to handle varying operating conditions make screw pumps ideal for marine and offshore environments. Salt water pumps can be used in this application.
Advantages of industrial screw pumps
Industrial screw pumps have high volumetric efficiency and can maintain the flow rate
Uniformly and without impact, resulting in minimal shearing force to the fluid. These pumps are very versatile and adaptable and can transfer a wide range of fluids including viscous liquids, abrasive slurries and shear sensitive materials.
In addition, industrial screw pumps work with a minimum level of noise and vibration and are
there fore suitable for installation in noise- sensitive industrial environments or residential areas. The uniform and silent operation of the industrial screw pump increases the comfort of the operator and reduces the risk of equipment fatigue.
Where to buy a screw pump?
Abarvan company, which is known as one of the producers of all kinds of pumps in iran, has also released screw pumps to the market. You can buy abarvan products with 18 months warranty and 10 years after sales service.
There are Many points that you should know when buying industrial pumps. Get in touch with our experts for a free consultation so that they can introduce you to the best product after checking.