Can you connect 2 pumps together?

Can You Connect 2 Pumps Together?

Pumps are necessary equipment for many industries, and they come in various types, sizes, and designs. In some cases, you may need to connect two or more pumps together to increase flow rates, ensure redundancy, or achieve particular pressure levels. However, not all pumps are suitable for daisy-chaining, and connecting them incorrectly can lead to equipment damage, safety hazards, or operational inefficiencies. In this article, we will explore the concept of connecting two pumps together, and highlight some of the essential considerations and best practices you should keep in mind.

Understanding Pump Connection

Before we delve into the specifics of connecting two pumps, it is essential to have a basic understanding of how pumps work and how they are typically connected. A pump is a mechanical device that uses force to transfer fluids from one location to another. The force may be generated by an electric motor, a gasoline engine, or a steam turbine, depending on the pump's size and application. The fluid is usually stored in a tank or a reservoir, and the pump creates a pressure or suction force that moves the fluid through pipes, hoses, or other delivery mechanisms.

When it comes to connecting pumps, there are two primary methods: series and parallel. In a series connection, the output of one pump is connected to the inlet of the next pump, and the two pumps work together to increase the pressure or flow rate. This method is suitable for applications that require higher pressure or head, such as water supply systems, booster pumps, or firefighting equipment. In a parallel connection, two or more pumps are connected to a common pipe or manifold, and each pump contributes to the total flowrate. This method is beneficial for applications that require high capacity or redundancy, such as sewage lift stations, cooling towers, or irrigation systems.

Considerations for Pump Linking

Before you attempt to connect two pumps together, you need to consider several factors to ensure that the connection is safe, reliable, and efficient. Here are some of the critical considerations:

1. Pump type and compatibility: Not all pumps are designed to be linked together, and some may require special adaptors or connectors to make the connection. For instance, centrifugal pumps may have different impeller designs, inlet/outlet sizes, or head/flow rate curves that make them incompatible with each other. Before you attempt to link two pumps, make sure you consult the manufacturer's specifications and recommendations.

2. Pump location and orientation: The location and orientation of the two pumps also play a crucial role in the connection process. If the pumps are not aligned correctly, or if they are too far apart, the hydraulic losses may increase, and the flow rate may decrease. Similarly, if the pumps are not mounted securely and level, they may vibrate excessively, leading to premature wear or damage.

3. Pipe size and configuration: The size and configuration of the pipes that connect the two pumps also affect the hydraulic performance of the system. If the pipes are too small or have too many bends or elbows, the friction losses may increase, reducing the flow rate and increasing the pressure drop. On the other hand, if the pipes are too big, the fluid may stagnate, creating dead zones and increasing the risk of corrosion or fouling.

4. Control and monitoring: When you connect two pumps together, you also need to ensure that they are controlled and monitored properly. If the pumps are not synchronized or controlled correctly, they may operate at different speeds, causing flow imbalances, cavitation, or underloading. Similarly, if the pumps are not monitored continuously, you may not detect early warning signs of problems, such as leaks, blockages, or low discharge pressure.

5. Maintenance and repair: Finally, you need to plan for the maintenance and repair of the linked pumps. When two pumps are connected, they may share the load, leading to faster wear and tear of the components. Moreover, if one pump fails or needs repair, you need to ensure that the other pump can take over the load without causing any downtime or safety hazards. To mitigate these risks, you should have a robust maintenance plan, spare parts, and backup equipment in place.

Best Practices for Pump Linking

Now that we have discussed the critical considerations for pump linking let us highlight some of the best practices you should follow when connecting two pumps together:

1. Choose compatible pumps: As we mentioned earlier, not all pumps are suitable for linking, and you need to ensure that the pumps you select have similar designs, capacities, and compatibility. Usually, pumps from the same manufacturer or series are the safest bet, as they have similar hydraulic characteristics and parts.

2. Use proper fittings and connectors: The fittings and connectors that you use to connect the pumps should also match the pumps' specifications and materials. For example, if your pumps have flange connections, you should use the correct gaskets and bolts to ensure the seal is tight and leak-free. If your pumps have threaded connections, you should use the appropriate thread sealant and torque values.

3. Balance the flow: When you connect two or more pumps in parallel, you need to ensure that the flow is balanced between the pumps. You can achieve this by using flow control valves or flow meters, or by adjusting the pump speeds or impellers. Balancing the flow ensures that each pump operates within its design parameters and minimizes the risk of cavitation or overloading.

4. Monitor the performance: To ensure that your linked pumps are operating correctly, you should monitor their performance continuously. This can be done by installing pressure gauges, temperature sensors, or vibration monitors, or by using automated control systems that alert you to any issues. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning, lubrication, and parts replacement, is also essential to maintain optimal performance.

5. Have a backup plan: Finally, you should always have a backup plan in case one of the linked pumps fails or needs repair. This can be in the form of a standby pump, spare parts, or a rental pump that can fill in the gap. Having a backup plan ensures that you can maintain uninterrupted production or service and minimize downtime and costs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, connecting two pumps together can be a useful technique to increase flow, achieve redundancy, or boost pressure levels. However, it requires careful consideration of various factors, such as pump type and compatibility, pipe size and configuration, control, and monitoring. Following best practices, such as using proper fittings, balancing flow, and having a backup plan, can help you achieve safe, reliable, and efficient pump linking. If you have any doubts or questions about connecting pumps, always seek expert advice from a reputable supplier or consultant.