Comprehensive Guide to Screw Pumps

Screw Pumps work by using multiple screws as the key component to drive fluid through the pump. The screws rotate on an axis and create a positive displacement suction force to help push fluid from the pump inlet towards the outlet for it to be discharged. With a twin-screw pump, the volume between the screws increases as they counter-rotate and pass the suction port. This creates a vacuum that draws liquid into the suction port and the pump housing. As they continue to rotate past the discharge port, the volume between the screws decreases, causing pressure to build up, forcing the liquid out of the discharge port. Take a look below at our video featuring Luke, Tapflo UK’s Pump expert to find out more about how a twin screw pump works and the many benefits it has to offer!

As mentioned earlier, several types of screw pumps are available on the market, each with different designs. Take a look below at the most common:

• Single Screw Pumps – Also known as Progressive Cavity Pumps. Although they are similar to screw pumps, they use a rotor and stator instead of the screw component found in screw pumps. If a progressive cavity pump sounds more like what you need, check out the Nova Rotors Diamond series we offer at Tapflo.
• Twin Screw Pumps – also referred to as double screw pumps – are ideal for high-head, high-flow applications and are commonly used for transfer duties.
• Triple Screw Pumps – These screw pumps are typically used for smaller pumping systems such as lubrication operations. A four-screw pump is also available; it’s similar to a twin-screw pump but uses four internal screw components per rotor for a higher flow rate.

Screw Pumps are among the most versatile pumping options on the market, suitable for a wide range of flow rates and pressures. In partnership with Pomac Pumps, Tapflo UK supplies the Twin Screw Pump, designed for hygienic applications and built to meet strict hygienic standards for the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. It’s EHEDG (European Hygienic Engineering and Design Group) rated and cast in high-grade AISI 316L stainless steel to minimise bacteria within the pump. Take a look below at just some of the advantages our screw pumps have to offer:

• Self-priming capabilities up to 8m
• Ability to dry run
• The screw design allows for solids up to a maximum of 40mm to be pumped
• Steady flow
• High head
• High flow
• High temperature, up to 135 degrees
• Speed range from 100 – 3600 rpm
• Can handle shear-sensitive fluids

As with any product design, consider a few disadvantages when choosing the right pumping system for your business. Take a look at some of the disadvantages of the screw pump below:

• Can be expensive; this is due to being manufactured with different rotating elements and high-quality materials to suit applications
• Not suitable for pumping speeds below 100rpm
• Not suitable for highly abrasive fluids.

Screw Pumps have many applications and are becoming the go-to solution for many businesses because they’re so versatile across industries. They are ideal for viscous and shear-sensitive products to ensure the product you’re pumping is not damaged during the pump’s operation. They also work well for the following applications, but are not exclusive to these:

• Suction
• Feeding
• Filling
• Displacement
• Supply
• Flush
• Dosing
• Loading, unloading
• CIP & SIP

If you’re in the market for a twin-screw pump for your application, contact Tapflo UK today for a competitive price and reliable pump solution.