Introduction
An internal gear pump is a type of positive displacement pump that uses the rotation of two interlocking gears to move fluid from the inlet to the outlet. This design is particularly effective for handling high-viscosity fluids and providing a smooth, pulse-free flow. Understanding the internal gear pump diagram can help you better grasp how these pumps work and their various applications.
Components of an Internal Gear Pump
- Rotor (Outer Gear): The larger gear that is connected to the drive shaft and powered by a motor or other source.
- Idler (Inner Gear): The smaller gear with fewer teeth that is mounted off-center and driven by the rotor.
- Casing: The outer shell that houses the gears and provides a sealed environment for fluid movement.
- Crescent Spacer: A fixed, crescent-shaped partition that separates the gears and acts as a seal between the inlet and outlet ports.
How an Internal Gear Pump Works
- Inlet Phase: As the rotor and idler gears rotate, fluid is drawn into the pump through the inlet port. The space between the gear teeth and the casing increases, creating a low-pressure area that allows fluid to flow in.
- Transport Phase: The fluid becomes trapped in the spaces between the gear teeth and the casing. The rotating gears carry the fluid from the inlet side to the outlet side.
- Outlet Phase: When the fluid reaches the outlet side, it is forced out of the pump through the outlet port. The meshing of the gears and the reduction in volume between the gear teeth and the casing push the fluid out.
- Continuous Flow: This process repeats with each rotation of the gears, resulting in a continuous and smooth flow of fluid.
Benefits of Internal Gear Pumps
- Smooth Operation: Provides a pulse-free flow, making it suitable for applications where fluid consistency is critical.
- High Viscosity Handling: Ideal for moving thick fluids such as asphalt, adhesives, and food products.
- Reversible: Can operate in both directions, allowing for easy filling or emptying of containers.
- Ease of Maintenance: Simple mechanical design makes it easy to clean and maintain.
Applications
Internal gear pumps are widely used in various industries due to their ability to handle high-viscosity fluids and provide precise flow control. Common applications include:
- Food Processing: For pumping food products like chocolate, sauces, and oils.
- Chemical Processing: Handling of chemicals and other viscous fluids.
- Paper Industry: Coating and processing of paper products.
- Pharmaceuticals: Precise dosing and transfer of pharmaceutical liquids.
Conclusion
Understanding the internal gear pump diagram helps in appreciating the efficiency and versatility of these pumps. Whether you are in the food, chemical, or pharmaceutical industry, an internal gear pump can provide reliable and consistent fluid transfer. By leveraging the unique design and operation principles of internal gear pumps, you can ensure smooth and efficient fluid handling in your applications
