Industry-Knowledge

twin screw pump

A twin-screw pump is a type of positive displacement pump that uses two intermeshing screws (rotors) to move fluids efficiently. It is widely used in industries requiring high-pressure, low-pulsation flow for viscous, abrasive, or sensitive liquids.

Key Features of Twin-Screw Pumps:

  1. Dual Rotor Design:

    • Two parallel screws rotate in opposite directions, creating a sealed cavity that moves fluid axially.

    • One screw is typically driven (connected to the motor), while the other is idler (rotates via timing gears).

  2. Non-Contact Operation:

    • The screws do not touch each other or the pump casing, reducing wear and allowing dry running for short periods.

  3. Handles Various Fluids:

    • Suitable for viscous, lubricating, non-lubricating, abrasive, and shear-sensitive fluids (e.g., oils, fuels, polymers, chemicals, food products).

  4. Smooth & Pulsation-Free Flow:

    • Provides continuous, low-vibration flow, making it ideal for metering and precision applications.

  5. High Pressure & Efficiency:


    • Capable of generating high discharge pressures (up to 100+ bar) with good volumetric efficiency.


Applications of Twin-Screw Pumps:

  • Oil & Gas: Crude oil transfer, fuel injection, lubrication systems.

  • Chemical Processing: Handling solvents, resins, acids, and polymers.

  • Marine: Fuel transfer, cargo pumping, lube oil circulation.

  • Food & Beverage: Pumping chocolate, syrups, creams, and other viscous products.

  • Power Generation: Boiler feed, thermal oil circulation.

  • Pharmaceutical: Gentle handling of sensitive fluids.


Advantages Over Other Pump Types:

✔ Versatile – Handles a wide range of viscosities and fluid types.
✔ Low Shear – Gentle pumping action, ideal for shear-sensitive fluids.
✔ Self-Priming – Can evacuate air and prime without external help.
✔ Reliable – Minimal maintenance due to non-contact rotors.
✔ Energy Efficient – Maintains efficiency even with viscous fluids.

Limitations:

❌ Higher initial cost compared to gear or centrifugal pumps.
❌ Requires proper alignment and timing gear maintenance.
❌ Not ideal for very low-viscosity fluids (like water) unless specially designed.


Comparison with Other Screw Pumps:

FeatureTwin-Screw PumpSingle-Screw Pump (Progressive Cavity)Triple-Screw Pump
Rotor Count2 screws1 rotor + stator3 screws
Shear SensitivityLow shearModerate shearLow shear
Pressure CapabilityHigh (up to 100+ bar)Medium (up to 48 bar)Very High (200+ bar)
Fluid HandlingWide range (clean & abrasive)Slurries, thick fluidsMostly clean, lubricating fluids

Conclusion:

Twin-screw pumps are ideal for high-pressure, low-shear applications involving viscous or sensitive fluids. They offer reliability and efficiency in demanding industries like oil & gas, chemicals, and food processing. For lower pressures or abrasive slurries, alternatives like progressive cavity pumps may be considered.

The above content was compiled and published by Zhilong Oil Drum Pump Supplier.