What Does a Transfer Pump Do?

Whether it’s getting gasoline from an underground tank to the pumps or moving water between treatment stages, transfer pumps are the indispensable workhorses that keep fluids flowing. But what exactly do these overlooked machines do, and what types handle different liquid transfer duties? 

• Transfer pumps move liquids between locations by increasing pressure
• Used in water treatment, chemical processing, and fuel transport
• Common types include centrifugal, positive displacement, and submersible pumps

Let’s explore the functionality, applications, types, selection, and care of transfer pumps.

The Basics of Transfer Pump Operation

In simplest terms, a transfer pump moves liquid from one place to another. More specifically, it imparts energy to increase the pressure and flow rate of the fluid being pumped to overcome friction in pipes, gravity, and other system resistances. This transfers the liquid into a pressurized pipe or container against the existing atmospheric or head pressure.

Diesel transfer pump comes in many configurations, but essentially consist of:

• A sealed chamber that draws in and captures a volume of liquid
• An impeller that rotates to force liquid out of the chamber
• A motor that drives the impeller, typically electric or combustion engines
• Suction and discharge ports to flow liquid in and pressurize it out

By repeatedly filling and forcing out liquid, transfer pumps can continuously move fluid between storage vessels, process stages, and other points as required. The heart of the fuel transfer pump is the rotating impeller that adds velocity and pressure to the passing liquid.

Transfer Pump Applications

Transfer pumps enable key movement of water and fuels in many applications:

• Municipal water – Pumps transfer potable water from wells, reservoirs, and treatment plants to pressurize water towers and distribution piping.
• Wastewater – Transfer pumps route sewage between processing stages and lift stations in treatment plants.
• Chemical processing – Transfer pumps move corrosive chemicals between storage tanks and process equipment.
• Fuel transport – Diesel and gasoline transfer pumps fill tanker trucks and underground storage tanks at depots and gas stations.
• Agriculture – Transfer pumps spread fertilizer, spray chemicals, and irrigate crops by pressurizing water.

With the ability to handle large volumes, transfer pumps are ideal for any application requiring liquid movement from point A to point B.

Major Transfer Pump Types

There are numerous fuel transfer pump designs tailored to different liquid properties and piping setups. Key types include:

• Centrifugal – These ubiquitous pumps use an impeller to sling liquid outward by centrifugal force. Flowrate depends on impeller diameter and speed.
• Positive displacement – Rotating gears, vanes, or lobes trap and force out fixed volumes of liquid with each rotation. Flow is very consistent.
• Diaphragm – Flexible diaphragms displace liquid as they reciprocate via attached rods. Good for abrasives and solids handling.
• Peristaltic – Rollers compress flexible tubing to push liquid through in a wave motion. Self-priming and good for high solids content.
• Submersible – A sealed pump and motor designed to sit immersed in the liquid being pumped, typically in wells or tanks. No priming needed.

Transfer Pump Maintenance Tips

To sustain performance, oil transfer pump requires periodic inspection and maintenance based on running hours. Key upkeep tips include:

• Checking pump casing, seals, and connection for leaks
• Confirming proper pressure gauge readings
• Draining liquid if freezing is a concern
• Checking and replacing worn impeller vanes
• Cleaning impeller, casing, and strainers of debris
• Confirming proper motor operation and lubrication
• Testing safety devices like pressure relief valves

Catching minor issues early prevents major failures down the road. Always consult manufacturer guidance for maintenance specifics.

Conclusion

For optimal service life, use pumps within their design capacity – don’t oversize or undersize. Avoid deadheading and rapid cycling that stresses components. Keep solids loading within limits and store pumps properly between uses. Whether you need to empty a wastewater pit, refill a water tower, or top off a chemical batching tank, a fuel transfer tank pump keeps the process flowing. Contact Aocheng today for proper selection, installation, operation, and care of transfer pumps.