Types of Oil Pumps Used in Machines
Oil pumps play a crucial role in the functioning of various types of machines. The primary function of an oil pump is to transfer oil from the oil pan to different parts of the engine for lubrication and cooling. As a result, it prevents friction and overheating, thus ensuring the smooth operation of the machine.
There are different types of oil pumps used in machines, and each type is designed for a specific purpose. In this article, we explore the different types of oil pumps and their uses in machines.
1. Gear Oil Pumps
Gear oil pumps are the most commonly used type of oil pump in machines. These pumps have two meshed gears that rotate to create a vacuum and pull the oil from the oil pan. The gears then push the oil through the pump’s outlet into different parts of the engine. Gear oil pumps are highly reliable and are suitable for machines with low to medium oil flow requirements. They are commonly used in vehicles, power generators, and industrial machinery.
2. Vane Oil Pumps
Vane oil pumps are another popular type of oil pump. They consist of a rotor with several vanes that rotate inside a cavity in the pump housing. As the rotor rotates, the vanes create chambers that pull and push the oil through the pump. Vane oil pumps are known for their high pressure and flow rate capabilities, making them suitable for heavy-duty machinery such as hydraulic systems, compressors, and large diesel engines.
3. Gerotor Oil Pumps
Gerotor oil pumps are similar to gear oil pumps, but with one major difference – the inner and outer gears are of different sizes. These pumps are highly efficient, creating a greater vacuum and delivering a higher flow rate than gear oil pumps. They are commonly used in high-performance machines such as racing cars, high-speed marine engines, and high-pressure oil systems.
4. Centrifugal Oil Pumps
As the name suggests, centrifugal oil pumps use centrifugal force to move oil. They consist of an impeller and a housing, which creates a centrifugal force when they spin that pulls the oil from the oil pan and pushes it through the pump’s outlet. Centrifugal oil pumps are ideal for applications where a constant oil flow is required, such as in oil coolers, refrigeration systems, and turbine engines.
5. Submerged Oil Pumps
Submerged oil pumps are used in machines that require oil to be delivered at a high pressure and in a continuous flow. They are placed in the oil pan and are submerged in the oil. As the engine runs, the oil is drawn into the pump and delivered to different parts of the engine. Submerged oil pumps are commonly used in large diesel engines, such as those used in ships and locomotives.
In conclusion, oil pumps are essential components in machines, ensuring the smooth operation of various mechanical parts. The type of oil pump used in a machine depends on the machine’s oil flow requirements, pressure, and speed. As machines become more advanced and technical, there is a need for highly specialized oil pumps that can deliver precise amounts of oil at specific pressures. As a result, manufacturers are constantly innovating and developing new types of oil pumps to meet these demands. Understanding the different types of oil pumps and their uses can help machine operators and technicians select the most suitable pump for their equipment, thus ensuring its efficient and reliable operation.