Types of Pumps

In Types of Pumps, you'll learn ...

• The difference between rotodynamic and positive displacement pumps and the fundamental operating principles of each.
• The major pump classifications and configurations—including overhung, between-bearings, and vertically suspended designs—and their common applications.
• Key industry standards such as ANSI/HI, API 610, and ASME B73.1 that define pump types, design requirements, and performance criteria.
• How to select an appropriate pump type for a given application by evaluating flow, pressure, viscosity, and system operating conditions.

Overview

Preview a portion of this course before purchasing it.

Credit: 3 PDH

Length: 70 pages

Pumps and motors are the most common types of mechanical equipment. Engineers of all disciplines can benefit from a better understanding of pumps. There is a great variety of different types of pumps to fit a multitude of different applications.

This course explains the different types of pumps on the market today and how they are classified. For example, positive displacement pumps are divided into reciprocating pumps and rotary pumps. Rotodynamic pumps are divided into overhung (OH), between bearings (BB), and vertically suspended (VS) pumps, per API 610 and HI Standards.

This course presents a detailed classification of pumps in accordance with the widely accepted pump standards. For each pump type, major features are listed, pump operation is explained, and common applications are covered. Figures are provided for most pump types to aid in understanding the classification and pump operation.

Specific Knowledge or Skill Obtained

This course teaches the following specific knowledge and skills:

• The major classifications of pumps and the operating principles that distinguish them.
• The key subtypes of rotodynamic pumps (overhung, between-bearings, and vertically suspended) and how impeller configuration affects flow and pressure performance.
• The principal categories of positive displacement pumps, including reciprocating and rotary types, and their advantages in precise flow and high-viscosity applications.
• The role of industry standards such as ANSI/HI, API 610, and ASME B73.1 in defining pump configurations, quality requirements, and dimensional interchangeability.
• The difference between axial, mixed, and radial impeller designs and the appropriate flow, pressure, and application conditions for each type.
• Common pump types and configurations—including OH, BB, and VS designations—and their applications in water, wastewater, and industrial systems.
• The performance characteristics of the various types of pumps, including efficiency, flow stability, pressure capability, and suitability for various fluids.
• How to apply pump classification knowledge to practical engineering design, selecting appropriate pump types based on standards, system requirements, and operating environments.

Certificate of Completion

You will be able to immediately print a certificate of completion after passing a multiple-choice quiz consisting of 15 questions. PDH credits are not awarded until the course is completed and quiz is passed.