A Comparison of Metering Pumps (Dosing Pumps)

Metering pumps, also known as dosing pumps, are typically used when: high accuracy flow is required; the pumping is to be controlled by flow proportioning, computer, or PLC; flow rates are PLH or less; using high system pressure; and/or pumping high viscosity or slurry media. How do the various types of metering pumps compare? Here is an overview:

Bellows Pumps can pump gases or liquids and operate at flow rates from 6 mL/min to 2475 mL/min.

Maximum pressure: To 50 psi

Self-priming: Good

Pulseless flow: Poor

Viscous fluids: Fair

Particulate matter: Yes

Run dry: No

Diaphragm Pumps offer high accuracy for applications such as pH/ORP control. They run at flow rates from 10 mL/min to 19.558 L/min.

Maximum pressure: To 250 psi

Self-priming: Poor to Good

Pulseless flow: Poor

Viscous fluids: Good to excellent

Particulate matter: No

Run dry: Yes

Peristaltic Pumps are noncontaminating and available in a wide variety of pump materials. These tubing pumps operate at flow rates from 170 mL/min to 9.4 L/min.

Maximum pressure: To 125 psi

Self-priming: Excellent

Pulseless flow: Good at high rpm

Viscous fluids: Good

Particulate matter: Yes

Run dry: Yes

Polymer Feed Systems are used for polymer make down and run diluted polymer to 6.2 L/min.

Maximum pressure: To 100 psi

Self-priming: Poor

Pulseless flow: Poor

Viscous fluids: Excellent

Particulate matter: No

Run dry: N/A

Piston Pumps handle the highest pressure and deliver accuracy, which makes them ideal for HPLC applications. These pumps operate at flow rates of 0.016 mL/min to 404.6 L/min.

Maximum pressure: To 5000 psi

Self-priming: Good

Pulseless flow: Poor

Viscous fluids: Fair

Particulate matter: No

Run dry: No

Syringe Pumps operate with very low flow rates, from 0.001 µL/min to 147 mL/min.

Maximum pressure: To 40 psi

Self-priming: N/A

Pulseless flow: Excellent

Viscous fluids: Poor

Particulate matter: No

Run dry: Yes