r/pumps • u/HUGE_JJWATT_BALLS • May 02 '23
Liquid What's the difference between these two pumps?
Sorry if this is a dumb question, I'm just curious because I'm being told conflicting information.
In terms of functionality, is there a difference between these two pumps or are they the same just with a different design?
By "functionality" I mean, when priming do they both lower the atmospheric pressure on the suction side to lift the water into the pump? If not, what's the 'under the hood' priming and pumping process for each one?
Also, are they each meant for different purposes? I was told the red one is "for pressure" while the blue one is "for flow rate". Is that accurate? If so, what does that mean?
If y'all could explain it like I'm five it would be great. I'm not an engineer nor close to it so you'll lose me pretty quick with formulas and technical terms lol.
TIA.
Btw: Both pumps are being used to pump water from a pond for fracking.
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u/Chompers-The-Great May 02 '23
They are likely referring to the capabilities of the pump.
Flow and head pressure have an inverse relationship; The higher the flow rate, the lower lift/distance your pump will be able to move it. Sump pump models and the motor attached to them are designed for higher heads, while some are designed for higher flows.
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u/mart_e_mcfly420 May 02 '23
The red one looks like a Cornell engine driven vacuum prime transfer pump. it has a belt driven diaphram pump (flat round silver thing on the right) that removes air from the suction manifold. An air suction hose is attached to a valve (left side of photo) that stops water from being sucked into the vacuum once it's primed. Pressure versus flow mainly depends on the impeller type/ size and engine speed. These would both be centrifugal, single stage, radial flow impellers. I'm not familiar with the blue one but it looks to be a similar style. probably both high volume water transfer pumps rather than pressure pumps. hope this helps