Self Priming Pump Working Principle & Applications | DAE Pumps

self priming pumps have several advantages for users.

Introduction

Self-priming pumps have a special design that creates a vacuum within the pump casing, drawing fluid into the pump. It then circulates the fluid through the system. The design uses a special pump’s impeller with vanes that trap air and gas within the pump casing.

The impeller of pump’s rotation creates pockets that trap air and gas in the pump casing. This creates a partial vacuum that draws fluid into the pump through the suction line. Once the fluid enters the pump, the impeller circulates it through the system, and the air and gas are expelled.

What exactly are self-priming pumps?

Self-priming pumps are a type of centrifugal pump that can prime itself without requiring external assistance. This makes them a popular choice for various applications in agriculture, construction, mining, and wastewater treatment. Here, the fluid being pumped may contain air or gas.

In this article, we will explore the self-priming pump’s mechanism and distinguish it from another standard centrifugal pump. We will explore the advantages of utilizing self-priming pumps, such as DAE Pumps, and their ability to handle fluids containing solids or air.

To learn about the importance and functioning of self-priming pumps, keep reading.

How does a self priming pump work?

Self Priming Pump Work Principles

The self-priming mechanism of these pumps works by using a re-circulation system, which creates a vacuum that draws the fluid into the pump. There is a fundamental difference between the work methodologies of traditional centrifugal pumps and self-priming pumps.  

Once the fluid is drawn into the pump, the pump separates the air from the fluid, expelling the air out of the pump’s discharge. The fluid is then pumped through the system, and the pump continues to operate in the same way as a standard centrifugal pump. As the fluid flows through the pump, it creates a continuous flow that maintains the vacuum in the suction line, ensuring that the pump remains primed.

Advantages of using a self priming pump

There are many advantages of Self Priming Pumps, such as:

  • No manual priming required: One of the most significant advantages of a self priming pump is that it can prime itself without the need for manual intervention. This saves time and effort, as operators do not need to spend time manually priming the pump before each use.
  • Can handle fluids with air or gas: Self-priming pumps are designed to handle fluids that may contain air or gas, making them ideal for pumping liquids that are prone to vapor locking or cavitating.
  • Reduced downtime: Because self priming pumps can operate continuously without the need for manual priming, they help reduce downtime and increase productivity.
  • Lower maintenance requirements: Self priming pumps are designed to handle fluids that contain solids or air, which reduces the likelihood of the pump becoming clogged or damaged. This, in turn, reduces maintenance requirements and prolongs the pump’s lifespan.
  • Versatile: Self priming pumps can handle a wide range of fluids, including those that contain solids or air. This makes them ideal for various industrial applications.
  • Energy-efficient: self priming pumps require less power to operate than standard centrifugal pumps, which makes them more energy-efficient and cost-effective over time.

Applications of self-priming pumps 

Self priming pumps are widely used in various industrial applications due to their ability to handle fluids containing air or gas. These pumps are particularly useful when priming a pump manually is not practical or possible. 

  • Water treatment – In this application, the pump transports wastewater from one location to another. Self priming pumps are ideal for this application because they can handle fluids that contain solids and other contaminants, which are common in wastewater. Hence, municipalities use these pumps for water supply and sewage treatment. 

 

  • Food processing – Here, these pumps are used to handle fluids that contain solids or air, such as fruit juices and purees. 
  • Agriculture Self-priming pumps are extensively used for irrigation in agriculture, drawing water from a well or water source and transporting it to the irrigation system. These pumps operate continuously without manual priming, saving time and labor. They are ideal for handling fluids containing solids, including irrigation water and liquid fertilizers. 

  • Construction: Self-priming pumps are popular in the construction industry for dewatering, removing water from excavation sites, and other unwanted areas. These pumps are perfect for handling solids and contaminants common in construction sites. 
  • Mining: Self-priming pumps find application in the mining industry, transporting fluids containing solids and contaminants to various locations. These pumps can handle the fluids typically present in mining operations, eliminating the need for manual priming and saving time and labor. 
  • Other Industries: You will find these pumps being used in handling waste and effluent water, chemical transfer.

  • Marine: Another usage of self priming pumps are in Ballast pumping, bilge pumping, and firefighting.
  • Oil and Gas: To transfer crude oil and petroleum products, oil and gas companies use self priming pumps.

  • Pharmaceutical: Similarly, pharmaceutical companies use these pumps to transfer sterile fluids and handling of viscous materials.

In a nutshell, where pumping and re-pumping are difficult, self priming pumps are the best options.

Why Choose DAE Pumps?

DAE offers centrifugal self priming pumps. These work well in dewatering applications. Various types of electric and diesel self priming pumps are easily mountable onto trailers or skids. Some of the available types include the following:

  •  Appalachian Self Priming Surface Pumps – They are versatile and come in several power and size options, with discharges ranging between 3-12 inches. The maximum volume touches 9510 GPM as well.
  • MAX-Series Self Priming Pumps – These are robust and centrifugal self priming pumps that ensure up to 5500 GPM in flow rates and pressure up to 260 PSI.
  • SP Series Self Priming Pumps – These are multipurpose offerings with 4 or 6-inch intakes and 3/4/6-inch discharges. They also also ensure up to 1750 GPM in flow rates and 90 PSI.
  • Redford Series Sewage Self Priming Pumps – They offer good performance, high capabilities in terms of sewage, and better energy savings and efficiency alike.

Summing Up

Self priming pumps and Centrifugal self priming pumps are ideal options for most needs, saving time, energy, and effort in several industrial applications. DAE Self Priming Pump is the best bet for accessing a vast line-up of products in this segment while improving productivity, lowering maintenance and down time. Get in touch with us for the best solutions for your needs. 

For your slurry pump, dredging equipment application in construction, mining, chemical, oil & gas, pulp and paper, sewage treatment, municipality, breweries, agriculture, pharmaceutical, and marine industries, contact DAE Pumps.

You can alternatively call us at (760) 477-4224. 


FAQs


How does a self priming pump work differently from a standard centrifugal pump?

Unlike a standard centrifugal pump, a self priming pump can prime itself without requiring external assistance. This is possible due to the use of a re-circulation system, which creates a vacuum that draws the fluid into the pump. The pump then separates the air from the fluid, expelling the air out of the pump’s discharge. The fluid is then pumped through the system, and the pump continues to operate in the same way as a standard centrifugal pump.

What are the maintenance requirements for a self priming pump?

Self priming pumps are designed to handle fluids that contain solids or air, which reduces the need for maintenance. However, regular maintenance is still necessary to ensure that the pump operates at peak efficiency. Maintenance tasks may include cleaning the pump’s impeller, checking the suction line for clogs, and inspecting the pump for signs of wear or damage.

How does a self priming pump work to help the environment?

Self priming pumps can help the environment by reducing the amount of fluid and energy wasted during the pumping process. They can handle fluids that contain solids and air, reducing the need for additional equipment. By eliminating the need for manual priming, they also reduce the risk of spills and leaks.

How self priming pumps work can save labor?

Self priming pumps can save labor because they eliminate the need for manual priming, which can be time-consuming and labor-intensive. With their ability to automatically prime and re-prime, they require minimal human intervention, allowing workers to focus on other tasks. This not only saves time but also reduces labor costs, making self priming pumps a cost-effective solution for various applications.

Self-priming pumps operate independently, eliminating the need for manual assistance, saving time, and enabling individuals to focus on other critical tasks.