A water pump is a crucial piece of equipment for efficiently moving water, whether for farm irrigation or various industrial applications. One type of water pump, the piston pump, operates through a simple yet effective back-and-forth motion to draw in and expel water, creating a steady flow. Piston pumps are known for their straightforward design, durability, and ability to generate significant pressure, making them ideal for rural environments. Let’s explore how these pumps function, the benefits they offer, and where you might find them in use.
A piston pump operates by using a reciprocating (back-and-forth) motion of a piston within a cylinder to draw in and expel water, creating a continuous flow. It consists of two main sections: the mechanical end and the water end.
The mechanical end includes a connecting rod that rotates on the eccentric shaft, pushing the crosshead, which then moves the plunger back and forth. The water end consists of two moving parts: the plunger assembly and a set of valves (suction and delivery).
As the plunger moves forward, two actions occur simultaneously: The plunger pushes water on one side of the cylinder, which closes the suction valve to prevent more water from entering. At the same time, it opens the delivery valve, allowing water to be expelled from the pump.
When the plunger moves backwards, it creates a vacuum behind it. This action closes the delivery valve, preventing water from flowing back into the cylinder. The vacuum opens the suction valve, enabling more water to enter the cylinder and preparing for the next delivery cycle.
For a more detailed explanation, watch our YouTube video below:
Due to the water end containing only two moving parts, diagnosing and repairing issues is straightforward. The pressure generated by a piston pump allows it to push water uphill over long distances. Additionally, the materials used for the liner and plunger assembly are more tolerant of dirty water. These features make piston pumps ideal for use on farms, lifestyle blocks, or in households located in rural areas.
At Track, we provide a wide selection of piston pumps with varying flow rates and pressure levels, tailored to meet your specific requirements. You can view our pump comparison chart for more details. If you need additional information about our pumps, installation, or maintenance issues, please reach out to a nearby agent using this map.