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In recent times, more and more industries rely on compressed air and are, sometimes, called the 4th utility of any industry. When looking for an air compressor, there are different types of compressor like Reciprocating compressor, Vane Compressor, Screw Air Compressor, Diaphragm Compressor, Centrifugal Compressor, and so much more. We will talk about the 2 popular types of compressor, namely the reciprocating and screw air compressor (also known as the rotary compressor). Users often get confused between these 2 variants during purchase; however, in order to make the correct decision, you will need to understand how they operate.

Reciprocating Compressor

In a reciprocating compressor, air is taken into a cylinder and then compressed to a higher pressure with a piston using reciprocating motion (much like an engine). Piston compressors are the most common type of compressor used in most industries because of their lower capital investment. These compressors, however, make a lot of noise and vibration. As the compressor operates on reciprocating motion, there is pulsating air produced, which causes the inlet and outlet valve blades to open and close multiple times a second, making higher noise levels. Most air compressors manufacturers provide an allowable duty cycle of 60%-70%. That said, a general recommendation is that when your compressor is idle for more than 50% of the time, it is best to go for a reciprocating compressor. Piston compressors are usually oversized to allow some idle time as they operate at higher temperatures. BAC Reciprocating Compressor ranges from 0.5HP to 20HP and are manufactured to industry standards to withstand above 70% duty cycle.

Screw Air Compressor

Screw air compressor consists of 2 rotors, rotating in the opposite direction, compressing air between the lobes to a higher pressure. Since the rotors are rotating and not reciprocating, there is minimal vibration, wear, and downtime compared to a reciprocating compressor. In a reciprocating compressor, there is a high friction loss between the piston rings and cylinder compared to a screw compressor where their rotors are non-contact. The air produced is continuous and prevents the inlet and outlet valves opening and closing continuously, thereby reducing noise to significantly lower levels. Screw compressors are especially good in medium-scale and large-scale industries where there is a continuous requirement of air. These compressors do not prefer idle time and long periods of idle time, which sometimes causes issues. Rotary Screw compressor requires a higher capital investment, but provides better efficiency and faster ROI. There are 2 types of screw air compressor fixed speed and variable speed compressors, each having its own advantages. BAC’s screw compressors currently range from 7.5 hp to 60 hp, and also provide custom combinations for getting the best out of your investment.

If you are in search for a reliable and professional supplier of Reciprocating or Screw Compressors, you can contact Vijay Engineering And Machinery Company – the Authorised Distributors of Elgi Compressors and Spare Parts.

Are you also amongst the ones who don’t find any difference between fire pumps and other pumps, primarily domestic water pumps?  Both pump water, don’t they? But they are as different as the scenarios they are employed in. And as the material and construction of fire pumps is different, they are far more costly than ordinary pumps.

So, before you go switching your fire pumps with domestic water pumps to control the cost, let’s take a look at the differences between the two:

1. Corrosion-resistant- As we mentioned, both pumps are used in different situations wherein the fire pump is an emergency pump, rarely used in normal times. But all the time it is not in use, the fire pump still needs to be intact for whenever it is needed. So, a fire pump is constructed, keeping in mind to keep its corrosion resistance factor high- much more than that of an ordinary water pump. Like, water pumps have a cast iron material used in the construction of their impeller, compared to the pure copper or stainless steel impeller of fire pumps.  
2. Fire pumps have to be fire-resistant- No matter how similar their applications might look, it is important for a fire pump to be fire resistant- something a water pump doesn’t need. A fire pump is not merely supplying water, it is used douse fires so, the material of the pump has to be metal and the surface of fire pump needs to a red paint coating, which not only stops it from getting rust but also fire-proofs it.
3. High-temperature resistance- Fire pumps have to be high-temperature resistant as they may have to counter scorching heat in the event of a fire hazard, something ordinary pumps don’t have.  

Now that we have cleared the air of any lingering doubts and you are sure without a doubt that it is a fire pump you need, ensure that you approach the best pump dealers in Mumbai, Vijay Engineering and Machinery Company. Be it centrifugal pumps or submersible motors, VEMC provides only the best and proves that it is one of the renowned pump dealers in India and the trustworthy distributors of the reliable Kirloskar pumps. Whether it is the best pump dealers in Navi Mumbai or topping the list of pump dealers in Vashi, VEMC has never failed to excel. Check out our website for more!

When centrifugal pumps produce inadequate flow, not only is the pump’s efficiency compromised, but the entire system suffers a gradual breakdown until the problem is solved. But often, we put the entire blame of the low flow on the pump itself, misdiagnosing problems in the system as pump problems only but to solve issues related to the performance of the system one has to look at the bigger picture.

Reasons for a centrifugal pump to produce a low flow of water

1. A clogged suction pipe: If a suction pipe is riddled with debris, there is less flow into the pump, which in turn leads to less flow out of the pump.
2. Worn impeller, ring, and plate: If the vanes on the impeller, the ring, and plate have worn down, the hydraulic capacity of the pump is hampered.
3. Reversed Impeller Rotation: Often, a pump’s motor is bump started without first ensuring whether the pump is hooked up for proper rotation of the shaft. So, when the motor turns in the wrong direction, the shaft is pushed back by the impellor which nat damage the internal surface of the pump.
4. Excessive Clearances: Excessive slip may occur if the clearances are too wide for the type of fluid pumped causing the fluid to recirculate inside the pump, thus causing the lower flow.
5. Debris in the impeller: The hydraulic capacity of the impeller is sometimes removed by the debris clogging it, creating an area of low pressure.
6. Open Bypass Valve: Sn open bypass valve may be the one diverting the flow isn’t somewhere else.

But you don’t have to worry about under performing centrifugal pumps or water pumps not working adequately as you have the best pump dealers in Mumbai, Vijay Engineering and Machinery Company at your service. It is regarded as one of the reputed pump dealers in India and the trustworthy distributors of the reliable Kirloskar pumps. From being titled as the best pump dealers in Navi Mumbai to being the trusted pump dealers in Vashi assisting industries for decades, VEMC lives by its principle to never compromise on delivering excellence. Check out our website for more!

As the name itself suggests, chemical pumps are used in the process of making, using or disposing of chemicals. The materials used in their construction and designing are chosen in a way that they can withstand substances with high or low levels of viscosity, abrasiveness, and corrosiveness. 

When something is so susceptible to the state of the substance flowing through its interiors, it becomes crucial to be as accurate as possible during its selection. When it comes to zeroing on the correct chemical centrifugal pumps, there are many variables one has to keep in mind:

-The materials used for the construction of the pump

The materials used should be compatible with the chemical media as acids like sulfuric acid and hydrochloric acid may cause problems like corrosion.

There are two types of pump materials- metal and nonmetallic. Metallic chemical pumps are mostly made from stainless steel, a nickel alloy or titanium for protection against corrosion. Nonmetallic pump materials are rubber, plastic, ceramics, glass, etc. which are all used as pump materials for corrosive materials.

• Pump size

If a pump of incorrect size is picked up, it will lead to operating problems within the pump fluid transfer system. Although owing to a built-in safety factor, mostly pumps are slightly oversized but if a pump is too big, it can make the centrifugal motor to be lightly loaded during operation. This, in turn, leads to lower productivity and higher operating costs. 

There are other issues that crop up as well like premature bearing failures, excessive vibration, increase in operating temperature and cavitation issues. But that doesn’t mean that one should go for an undersized pump as it has its own share of consequences. In an undersized chemical pump has to pump faster, straining their pump components, bringing down their suction capabilities, as well as fastening its wear, which may lead to failure.

• Pump performance specifications

The proper performance of the pump includes maximum discharge flow, maximum discharge pressure (head), inlet size, discharge size, and media temperature. Hailed as the best pump dealers in Mumbai, Vijay Engineering and Machinery Company is regarded as one of the reputed pump dealers in India and the trustworthy distributors of the reliable Kirloskar pumps. From being regarded as the best pump dealers in Navi Mumbai to being the trusted pump dealers in Panvel, VEMC lives by its principle to never compromise on what is best for its customers. Check out our website for more!

Though highly efficient compared to other renewable energy resources, a solar PV module is severely affected by major fluctuations in temperature. When the temperature turns extremely excessive, the energy output of a PV system is hampered and results in unexpected energy loss. 

Why does temperature affect the solar photovoltaic model?

The efficiency of solar panels is negatively affected by an increase in temperature. In practice, photovoltaic modules are tested at a temperature of 25 degrees C (STC) – about 77 degrees F.- this is the Standard Test Condition temperature where the module’s nameplate power is determined. The heat can reduce energy output efficiency by 10 to 25%, depending on the solar panel’s installation location.  Increase in the temperature of the solar panel increases the output of current exponentially and lowers the voltage output linearly, severely reducing the solar panel’s capability to produce power. 

A panel’s heat tolerance can be deduced checking out the sheet provided by the manufacturer, which carries a term called the “temperature coefficient (Pmax.)”-  the maximum power temperature coefficient.  This gives you a fairly accurate idea about the percentage of power loss when the panel has to bear a temperature spike 1°C above 25°C. 

But there are multiple ways to ensure to bring this situation under control

• When installing the panels, place them in a way that they are a few inches above the surface of the roof so that there is enough space in between for convective airflow, allowing the panels to cool down. 

• It is a known fact that dark colours absorb more heat, so the best idea would be to make sure that the panels are constructed with light-coloured materials.

• Components like inverters and combiners are already doing the heavy work and as a result, get heated up. Keeping them in direct sunlight will only tip the soaring temperature over the edge, so it is a good idea to keep them in a  shaded area behind the array. Be it choosing the right solar panel or ensuring the proper installation of a solar tracking mount, the best solar EPC consultants in Thane, Vijay Engineering and Machinery Company is at your service. Hailed as the best EPC Consultants in Navi Mumbai as well, VEMC is renowned for providing only the best. Check out our website for more!

The world is struggling through the slow but unstoppable extinction of its power resources- fossil fuels yet it is still not utilizing the vast pool of renewable energy– solar energy and is largely unaware of its various facets. While you may be aware of what are solar panels and their basic working dynamics, the type of mount they are placed on play a huge role in the percentage of energy they can produce. 

In terms of the radius of their movements, there are two types of solar mounts:

Stationary mounts– These hold the solar PV module in a fixed position. This acts as a disadvantage on days when the Sun is not in the desired angle and thus, the solar panels are not properly charged. 

Solar tracking Mounts– They are a far more advanced technology for mounting solar panels. As the solar trackers automatically move to “track” the sun’s shift in position and adjust the position of the solar panels, ensuring maximum energy output.

Where are solar trackers used?

They are typically used for solar panels which are ground-mounted and large, free-standing solar installations like solar trees. Residential solar projects mostly don’t employ them as they are built for large scale consumption, like in the utility-scale and commercial/industrial solar market.

There are two types of solar tracking systems: single-axis and dual-axis.

A single-axis tracker- This tracks the movement of the Sun as it rises and sets, i.e., from east to west as the panels are aligned along a north-to-south axis of movement.

A dual-axis tracker: Here the solar panels can move on two axes- north to south and east to west. This tracker is better than the single-axis tracker as it is more susceptible to the Sun’s rotation and position in the sky as well changes in the same due to seasonal variations. 

Looking for a solar tracking mount to suit your needs? Seek the guidance of the best solar EPC consultants in Mumbai, Vijay Engineering and Machinery Company. Hailed as the best EPC Consultants in Navi Mumbai, VEMC has carved its niche in the industry with its excellent customer care service. Check out our website for more!

A revolutionary discovery when it comes to renewable energy, solar panels are expected to replace fossil fuels across the globe, if used mindfully and employed innovatively. As we know, a single solar PV cell generates only 0.1 watts to 2 watts of energy. For its application in practical ways, such cells are connected to make a solar PV module in order to provide the required standard output voltage and power.

And while it is important to pick the right solar panel as per your needs, what matters is which mounting system will work best for your living space, fit into your budget, and energy needs.

The two types of solar mounting systems: Roof mount vs. Ground mount 

While the roof mount systems are fixed to the brackets on your roof, a foundation is built at ground level for ground mount systems.

Roof solar mounts 

The advantages of going for a roof mount system are rather few. Like it is less expensive, easier to install as well as utilizes less space. But the list of its cons is too long- 

Cons:

• Accessing the panel would be a hassle
• The higher panel temperature results in lower panel output
• Planning to replace your roof? Get ready to install the system again!
• As there is constricted space on roofs, the size of the system has to be restricted

Ground Solar mounts

The requirement of intensive labor, expensive installation and permitting process, and not exactly an aesthetic addition to the space around your house.

But despite its cons, Ground mounts are the best option for you

They are easier to access, clean, and repair, if need be. Not only does it have a stronger racking, but its size also is not decided on how big the roof is and are producing higher energy inputs because of the cooler temperatures. Want to get your roof replaced? Go on, your panels are not in need of reinstallation!

Start using this pollution-free method of energy today with the help of the best solar EPC consultants in Mumbai, Vijay Engineering and Machinery Company. Hailed as the best EPC Consultants in Navi Mumbai, VEMC is renowned for providing only the best. Check out our website for more!

If you’re looking to install a pump, your first consideration should be its purpose. What do you need your pump to do?

We can break this down into:

• What type of medium do you need to transport or process?
• How far do you need to move it?
• What volume and at what flow rate will be required?
• What power source do you have available? – electricity, compressed air etc.

In this post we’re going to focus on the first point. By understanding the type of material, whether solid or liquid or viscous, you will be able to identify the type of pump you need.

Flowable Liquids vs Slurry Mediums

Anything that needs to be pumped has a viscosity. For instance, water is 1 cPs while a much thicker liquid like a fruit pulp can be about 5,000 cPs. If it’s a slurry from a mine, this also is viscous to some degree. Slurry will also have a solids percentage which has to be taken into account. A general rule of thumb is, ‘if you can pour it, you can pump it’. There is a list of typical viscosities here.

Pumps for Different Mediums

Your first step should be to understand the nature of the product you are wanting to process or transport via a pump. If the medium pours easily without chunks of solid material present, then we can happily describe this as a liquid. But the real test is how viscous the liquid is. Likewise, if there are solids present, then this medium will require different equipment. There is a stark difference between pumping water which is thin and extremely fluid as opposed to oil or grease which is thick, or an abrasive medium which contains solids.

Let’s take a look at three common mediums and the pumps you might need:

• Water: This is the simplest medium to transport. It’s easy to move around because it has low viscosity. Therefore either a centrifugal style pump, which includes submersible pumps, or even a pneumatic pump for dewatering, will suit your needs.
• Oil: Now things get trickier. When a medium becomes oily, it’s still a liquid, but because it has higher viscosity you’re going to need a different style of pump. It needs to be able to withstand increased friction. Something like a gear or lobe pump which can handle higher viscosities. However, these pumps cannot run dry, so if your system needs a pump that may run dry at some point, you’ll need a tube or diaphragm pump.
• Slurries and Abrasives: These mediums have deposits within them which are solid. Pieces of rock, metal, or other minerals etc. There are two considerations here. The first is to make sure that your pump is powerful enough to transport such medium, the second is to ensure that the pump is durable enough to withstand the abrasive nature of the medium. A peristaltic hose pump or a heavy duty slurry pump is ideal for such a situation.

Other Considerations

In some instances the medium you are using might be corrosive, so in this case you’ll need to choose a chemical pump which can process what you need while keeping an environment safe from contamination.

Vijay Engineering and Machinery Company, one of the best pump dealers in Mumbai, provides a wide range of Kirloskar pumps like submersible pumps, water pumps, submersible motors, etc. Click here to know more about the products and services we provide!

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Centrifugal pumps are capable of providing efficiencies up to 93 percent and even the smallest pumps have an efficiency that falls into the 50 to 70 percent range. Centrifugal water pumps convert mechanical energy into hydraulic energy (flow, velocity and pressure), while a centrifugal motor i.e., AC motor converts electrical energy into mechanical energy. 

Countless nitty-gritty details and factors are carefully monitored to ensure that the efficiency of centrifugal pumps is maintained and increased if possible. Let’s take a look at the methods followed to up the efficiency of the pumps:  

• By employing high specific speed

As pump’s efficiency is directly dependent on the specific speed, the higher the latter is the better the efficiency is, resulting in energy conservation

• Using good wear ring with proper clearance

Though even a well-designed pump comes with a diametral clearance of 0.2 to 0.4%, as long as it remains between 0.6 to 0.8 % there is no issue. But the moment it starts increasing beyond this limit, the efficiency of the pump drops. As pumps continuously wear with time, the best option here is to continuously switch the wear ring, having good quality. 

• Avoid running one pump instead of two

It is often seen in many installations that two pumps are operating simultaneously even when the required supply can be managed by a single pump. This not only leads to wastage of energy but also limits the pumps to work at their full efficiency. 

• Maintaining good insulation and ensuring that there is steam tracing in the suction line of the pump

An often neglected yet necessary arrangement, insulation and steam tracing help in diminishing the damage done by a liquid’s viscosity which causes fluid friction and disc friction. The higher the viscosity of the liquid, the lesser is the pump’s efficiency

• Selecting a pump ideal for its application

Every pump generates different amounts of flow at different pressures, so often it happens that a pump, improper for its application, is chosen. It’s either too large or too small and ends up reducing the system performance as it results in inadequate flow. 

Are you looking for centrifugal pumps that come with the guarantee of heightened efficiency? The answer to your search is Vijay Engineering and Machinery Company, hailed as the best pump dealers in Mumbaiand one of the most reputed pump dealers in India. They are trustworthy distributors of reliable Kirloskar pumps. Be it the best pump dealers in Navi Mumbai or the reliable pump dealers in Vashi, VEMC is the name that crops up. Check out our website for more!

When it comes to the usage of Hydropneumatic Systems, innovatively crafted water pumps, its high power design is mostly applicable in situations where water is needed in variable amount but has to be delivered continuously and with uniform pressure- like to all floors of high rise apartments and commercial buildings. Such places usually comprise of bathroom fittings like shower, Jacuzzis, that need pressurized water to ensure that the accessories work properly.    

The types of Hydropneumatic systems:

1. Constant Speed System– Fx1- This HYPN system is used primarily in residential houses and buildings as well as small scale commercial set ups where is is employed in transferring water and filling tanks.

2. Cascade system-MX- In this, all pumps work via one VFD (a variable-frequency drive). It is mostly used in industrial applications in medium size commercials and residential buildings.

3. All pumps VFD system-EX- These are majorly used by large commercial sectors like hospitals, malls, airports, metros, based on what is the need of the specific sector.

The formation of a Hydropneumatic system:

It consists of 2 to 6 multistage centrifugal pumps, which are capable of bearing high pressure. It also has high-resistance valves and a control panel to control the number of pumps that will be functioning based on system discharge and the rate of pressure. As the centrifugal motors and pumps are prone to start and stop many times, pressure tanks are there to reduce the frequency. It also consists of switches build to sense high and low pressure as well as a pressure transmitter.

Made up of rubber bladder, the pressure tanks are surrounded by pressurized air as water is a non-compressible fluid. As soon as you open a tap, the pressure in the tank is reduced as the water level goes down. As soon as the pressure level drops to a certain level, the pressure switch senses it and turns on the pumps and turns it off when the desired level of pressure is achieved.

Vijay Engineering and Machinery Company, one of the best pump dealers in Mumbai, provides a wide range of Kirloskar pumps like submersible pumps, water pumps, submersible motors, etc. Click here to know more about the products and services we provide!

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As you must know that every part of the puzzle needs a specific shape and type of a jigsaw piece- something that applies to the Oil and Gas industry when it comes to choosing the right category of pumps to mix and handle oilfield fluids. It is the centrifugal pumps, aided by the rotary motion of the centrifugal motor, that create enough centrifugal force in the pumps to discharge the fluids.

The industry uses different types of centrifugal pumps in many applications like, electric submersible pumps is used as a water and oil separator. It acts as water pumps to re-inject hundreds of gallons of water or low viscosity liquids in a short period into a reservoir- all done without lifting it to the ground surface.

But there are factors that ensure that these pumps manage to pull off their Herculean tasks with efficiency:

• The level of viscosity in the fluid as low viscosity fluids are best suited for centrifugal pumps as the mechanics involved lead to high liquid shear.
• The amount of work the pump has to do is directly proportional to the specific density and the gravity of the fluid coursing through it. For example, if it is oil, then the inner power required to pump it is exponentially more. 
• The level of temperature and pressure are also key factors as fluctuations in both cases can only be countered by special gasketing, casing penetrations, seals, and mounting designs.
• Vapour pressure, i.e., the pressure at  which a fluid will transition into vapor state as it will help in avoiding cavitation and bearing damage caused by dry running.

Hailed as the best pump dealers in Mumbai, Vijay Engineering and Machinery Company is regarded as one of the reputed pump dealers in India and the trustworthy distributors of the reliable Kirloskar pumps. From being regarded as the best pump dealers in Navi Mumbai to to being the trusted pump dealers in Vashi assisting industries for decades, VEMC lives by its principle to never compromise on delivering excellence. Check out our website for more!

Ever wondered how your centrifugal pumps performance can be evaluated?

Pump characteristic curves help you do that. Click here to read our article on the 3 kinds of pump characteristic curves!

The shut-off head (click here to know more) is one of the important points on the curve. This article focuses on two other important points on the curve.

The Best Efficiency Point (BEP)

On a pump curve, the BEP is when the pump is at its most efficient. It’s when water pumps deliver the best results at the least amount of noise and vibration produced. Pumps are usually rated on their BEPs and consume power according to what their rating is. Hence, you probably often see it mentioned in their packaging.

The Maximum Flow Point

This is a flow point beyond which your pump will cease to function normally. It will begin to consume excess power and its efficiency will fall significantly. If you notice excessive vibrations and noise being created by your pump, chances are it has reached its Maximum Flow Point.

These variables on the pump characteristic curve help you determine the performance of a pump and accordingly help you opt for the one that best suits your pumping needs.

Vijay Engineering and Machinery Company, one of the top pump dealers in Mumbai and one of the best pump dealers in Thane has been supplying state-of-the-art Kirloskar pumps to industries for decades. We take pride in the trust they have in us and strive to deliver the finest products and services to them. Our after-sales services ensure that you don’t have to lift a finger to ensure your pump continues to run smoothly for years. However, we also take the initiative to maximize our clients’ knowledge of the pumping solutions that they invest in. Have any questions? Click here to get in touch with us!

If you own a pump, you should be able to evaluate your pump’s performance and ensure that it’s ideal for the purpose you installed it for. This is done by plotting points on a graph and drawing a pump characteristic curve. This curve provides insights into the relationship between the total head (i.e. how much kinetic energy a pump can generate) and flow rate.

There are 3 key points on this curve that we often consider (click on them to know more):

• Shut off head
• Best Efficiency Point
• Maximum Flow Point

Another aspect of the curves that we consider is what kind of curves they are:

• Normal curves: Here, the head is seen to be decreasing at a rapid pace while the flow is seen to be increasing. This curve type is steep and gives you more control, which makes it more sought-after. This is because a small change in flow will result in a sizeable drop in pressure.
• Flat curves: Here, the head decreases at a very slow pace as the flow increases. This type of curve is ideal for sprinkler systems because here, a significant change in flow is coupled with a small change in head.
• Drooping curves: In this case, the curve is similar to a normal curve with the exception of the fact that the head rises and then falls as it nears the shut-off head point. This curve type should be avoided.

When it comes to owning water pumps, be it centrifugal pumps, submersible pumps or any other kind of pump, it is essential for you to evaluate the pumps’ characteristic curves. Being among the most reliable pump dealers in India, we, at Vijay Engineering and Machinery Company, only sell premium-quality Kirloskar pumps. These pumps only deliver the best and are hassle-free once installed. We complement our products with information to help you seamlessly install and maintain efficient pumping systems. Want to know more about our pumps? Head over to our blog section and uncover a plethora of topics we explore!

If you’re recently started learning about centrifugal pumps, you probably aren’t well-acquainted with what the term ‘head’ refers to in this case. So, let’s start with that.

Head is a measure of how much kinetic energy a pump can generate. If a pump’s discharge is directed upwards, the head would refer to the height that the pumped fluid would be able to reach.

Is head the same as pressure?

No. The pressure isn’t used to measure the energy produced by a pump because it is impacted by gravity. Head, on the other hand, remains unaffected by the weight of the fluid when it’s being measured.

So, what does ‘shut off head’ mean?

Shut off head is the maximum head achievable by water pumps and occurs at zero flow. It consumes minimal power at this point. One clear sign of shut off head is when your pump vibrates more than usual and generates way more noise.

It is not recommended to operate your pump at zero flow for an extended period of time

You may be wondering why. This is what would happen if you operate your pumps at zero flow for long periods of time:

• The friction created by the impeller will generate enough heat to boil the water present in the pump.
• The heat will cause the mechanical seal to break and the plastic components of the pump will damage or melt.
• Water is likely to leak into motor windings in residential systems.
• Finally, as a result of high pressure, the pressure switch will shut the pump down, leading to minimal or no flow.

At Vijay Engineering and Machinery Company, we care about our clients’ safety and strive to ensure that we take every step to facilitate the correct usage of the high-quality Kirloskar pumps we sell. Have a question about your pump? We’d be happy to assist you! Click here to contact us.

What’s viscosity?

In simple terms, viscosity is how thick a liquid is. For instance, water isn’t very viscous, but sludge is. Fluids may also gain/lose viscosity if heat or pressure is applied. Viscosity is measured in units known as Seconds Say bolt Universal (SSU) and is measured using a viscometer.

Choose the right pump depending on fluid viscosity

The consistency of the fluid you want to pump will determine the kind of pumps you’ll need. This is because thicker fluids cause more resistance when energy is applied. That means that pumps used for water may not be suitable for oil.

There are two options you can select from once you’ve evaluated the viscosity of the liquid that needs to be pumped:

• Centrifugal pumps: These are ideal for relatively less viscous liquids, for instance, water. While these water pumps don’t necessarily stop functioning in fluids that are slightly more viscous, their efficiency may take a hit. This is because a centrifugal motor isn’t designed to operate in thick liquids. A centrifugal pump is ideal for relatively thin liquids that need to be pumped at high speeds.
• Positive displacement pumps: These pumps are specially designed to work effectively in thicker fluids. These fluids are basically liquids which are over 2000 SSU in viscosity. These pumps would be ideal for oil. A positive displacement pump is also suited for fluids that need to be pumped slowly and gently to keep their properties intact. This could include food pastes, paint, etc. that would become runny and unusable if pumped at high speeds.

Vijay Engineering and Machinery Company, one of the best pump dealers in Mumbai, is a one-stop solution for all your pumping needs. We provide incessantly adept assistance at every step; be it providing knowledge & industry tips when it comes to choosing the perfect products from our wide range of Kirloskar pumps or servicing the ones you’ve got running for years. Want to know more about us? Click here to get in touch!

When you think about a pump’s mechanism, one of the first things you’ll imagine is a rotating impeller. It’s an important component of water pumps and it facilitates smooth operation.

But what if you notice your impeller rotating backwards?

Will it stop working? Will it pump water in the opposite direction? No and no.

When a centrifugal pumps impeller rotates in the inverse direction, the flow of fluid through the pump isn’t reversed. However, the pump’s efficiency will drop significantly and you’ll notice that the flow is hindered. So, while it may not bring the pump to a halt, it’ll definitely not continue functioning like it normally would. The impeller design and the angles given to vanes are specific in achieving some crucial hydraulic characteristics which are plotted on the pump performance curve. If at all the pump rotates in reverse direction it will not produce the same curve means all the parameters of pump such as pressure, flow, efficiency and power consumption would be hampered.  

Can it harm my pump?

So, we’ve established that backwards-rotating impellers will still work. But can they potentially damage your pumps? That depends.

In some submersible pumps, the impellers may be screwed onto the mechanism, which means they run the risk of getting unscrewed if they rotate in the opposite direction. This can cause significant damage to your pump. In worse cases, if the mechanical seal is breached as a result of damage to the pump, it may even cause injuries.

What can you do to prevent this?

When you’re installing your pump, do a quick test to see if the impeller is rotating in the correct direction before you put it to use. Also, get in touch with our technicians for assistance and maintenance if you ever notice the pump’s flow reducing.

Vijay Engineering and Machinery Company is among the best pump dealers in Mumbai for Kirloskar pumps. Having assisted industries for decades, VEMC is dedicated to ensuring that once you buy our products, you never have to worry about them. Pump trouble? Click here to contact us and we’ll get it fixed in no time!