Fluid Metering Inc. Blog

Different fluids with different flow rates are bound to require separate pumps, right?

Not necessarily. Two pumps aren't necessarily always better than one.

Contrary to what you might believe, just because you're working with two fluids with different flow rate requirements doesn't mean that you have to invest in two pumps. There are other options at your disposal, and these options can help streamline efficiency and conserve spending. In this post, we'll take a look at some of the options that users have when working with different fluids at different flow rates. Here's a closer look:

Do I Need Separate Pumps?

While there are certain situations that may warrant acquiring separate pumps for working with different fluids, users also have other options. One solution is to utilize Duplex pumps, which feature two pump heads that can be calibrated at different values.

Think of these pumps as a "2-for-1" in that, with just a single drive motor, you're able to drive two different pump heads with two different mix ratios. These types of pumps can help simplify your operations and also save you space within the lab environment.

Whether or not you need separate pumps or a single pump option can suffice is largely dependent on your application's needs, but know that there are options for purchasing two pumps to process different fluids at different flow rates. The Duplex pump is one of them.

The Benefits of Using One Pump

If your application allows you to meter different fluids with just one pump, there are a variety of benefits associated with doing so. Here's a look at some of them:

• Simplification: Arguably the biggest benefit is the simplification of the electrical system. Two pumps require multiple motor controllers to operate the independent speeds of the system. It can add to the complexity of the system in terms of integration. Duplex pumps help reduce the complexity of the fluidic system.
  
  
• Space saving: One pump instead of working with two can save you space within the lab environment. It can also save space within the instrument itself. This can help improve reliability and reduce maintenance, which can make for more streamlined overall operations in the lab and reduce downtime.
  
  
• Cost savings: Ideally, it should also reduce the overall cost of the pump as well. When you work with one Duplex pump, you've got a pump that can literally do it all as opposed to acquiring multiple units. This pump will often cost less to manufacture than if you were to purchase two pumps.

Disadvantages of Using One Pump

In the case where the application requires flow outputs in multiples of two, having one single pump may not be advantageous. The increased complexity of the fluidic system can lead to additional leak points, increased system size, increased cost, and overall added complexity to the fluid system.

Like we said earlier in this piece, the decision to work with one pump versus two separate pumps should be based on the application you're working with. This is an example of when it would make sense to work with two pumps.

How FMI Can Help

Fluid Metering, Inc. has a variety of "Duplex" pump options that can help users experience the benefits of using a single pump for processing different fluids at different flow rates. From stepper base options to our QB series of pumps, we have various models with dual shaft or dual head options.

If you'd like more information or are searching for a specific type of pump, we encourage you to give one of our experts a call so that we can help meet your application's needs. It's always best to contact us so we can ensure the solution meets your needs. Doing so can help determine the best combination of pump head to calibration for the specific application.

While the Duplex pump was largely discussed in this post, many other products in Fluid Metering, Inc.'s product portfolio can be utilized for the same purpose.

Contact FMI Today

For more information on when it makes sense to meter different fluids at different flow rates, and for a look at the pump options offered by Fluid Metering, Inc. to help you achieve this, contact us today.

We're standing by to carefully assess your application's requirements to pair you with the best pump possible. And if you're working with different fluids that require different flow rates, know that there are benefits to using just one pump. Contact Fluid Metering, Inc. to learn more.