Eldex Single Piston w/ Dampener: An Economical Choice with Competitive Dampening Performance Compared to Dual Piston
Hypothesis
Eldex’s single-piston pump with a damper reduces pulsation comparably to a dual-piston pump offered by its competitor.
Test
In this blog, we will delve into the functionality of both pumps, examine their performance in pulsation reduction, and ultimately determine whether Eldex’s single-piston pump with a damper performs comparably to a competitor’s dual-piston pump.
Background
Eldex Optos 2SMP is a single-piston reciprocating pump that delivers up to 10 mL/min at pressures of up to 6000 psi. This model comes with an optional PLUS feature, including an integrated pulse dampener and pressure transducer, aimed at mitigating pulsation effects during operation and allowing for pressure monitoring. The addition of a pulse dampener enhances the pump’s performance by minimizing fluctuations in flow and pressure, thereby ensuring a smoother and more consistent fluid output.
To visualize the single piston design’s inner workings and flow pattern, a cut-off liquid end in Figure 1 offers an insightful glimpse into the pump’s operation.
The competitor’s offering presents a dual piston in parallel configuration, using a single motor to drive its operation. It is promoted for its capability to significantly reduce pulsation effects. This pump model delivers a flow rate of up to 12 mL/min at pressures of up to 6000 psi. The utilization of dual pistons operating in parallel is intended to minimize pulsation. For visual reference and deeper understanding, an accompanying image in Figure 2 illustrates the layout and arrangement of the dual pistons in parallel configuration.
Instruments/tools
Following is the list of instruments and tools used in the testing:
- A Vaetrix Test Gauge and Vaetrix Live Software: Utilized for precise pressure measurement and data recording.
- Microsoft Excel: Utilized to get the standard deviation and visualization of test results.
- A 900 psi BPR (Back Pressure Regulator): Ensured consistent pressure levels during testing.
- A Stopwatch and a Graduated Cylinder: Employed for accurate timing and volume measurement.
- Plumbing Tubing: Included 0.04″ ID and a 0.0625″ OD tubing for fluid flow control.
- Eldex’s 2SMP Optos Pump: Representing Eldex’s single-piston pump with a damper.
- Competitor’s Dual Piston Pump: Serving as the benchmark for comparison.
Setup/Procedure
We conducted our test using 99% isopropyl alcohol (IPA) as the testing liquid. Our objective was to assess the pumps’ performance at varying flow rates (1ml/min, 5ml/min, and 10ml/min) while maintaining a constant pressure of 900 psi. Additionally, we included a test run for Eldex’s pump without a damper to provide a baseline for comparison.
Baseline Test for Eldex’s Pump without Damper
- To measure the output flow, we ran Eldex’s pump without a damper and without using any back pressure at full speed.
- For subsequent tests, we confirmed the desired flow rate (10ml/min).
Testing procedure for Eldex’s Pump with Damper
- We installed the damper in Eldex’s pump and conducted tests at varying flow rates (1ml/min, 5ml/min, and 10ml/min) for several hours.
- We maintained a constant pressure of 900 psi throughout the tests.
- We monitored and recorded steady graph data using Vaetrix software.
- Lastly, we transferred the data points to Excel for analysis, including calculating a standard deviation.
Testing Procedure for Competitor’s Pump
- We confirmed the output flow rate of the competitor’s pump at full speed (10ml/min).
- We ran tests on the competitor’s pump at flow rates of 1ml/min, 5ml/min, and 10ml/min, mirroring the procedure for Eldex’s pump.
- Each flow rate test was conducted for several hours, with steady graph data recorded using Vaetrix software.
- Once again, we transferred data points to Excel for analysis, including standard deviation calculation.
This comprehensive setup and procedure outline ensures consistency and transparency in our testing process, facilitating accurate comparison between Eldex’s pump with a damper and the competitor’s dual piston pump.
Test results
By averaging the data over multiple test runs, we found that while the competitor’s dual-piston pump performed better, Eldex’s single-piston pump with a damper was almost as good. The test results present a standard deviation in Table 1 comparing the performance of a single-piston pump without a damper, a single-piston pump with a damper and a dual-piston pump. Accompanying the table is Graph 1, which visually illustrates these findings and highlights the differences in performance among the pump types. This data provides valuable insights into the variability and consistency of each pump’s operation.
Conclusion
In comparing pulsation dampening between single-piston and dual-piston pumps, the dual-piston pump emerged as the top performer, effectively minimizing pulsations. Interestingly, the single-piston pump also demonstrated commendable performance, nearly rivaling its dual-piston counterpart. However, the price is a significant factor in this comparison; the dual-piston pump is almost twice that of the single-piston pump. This cost differential makes the single-piston pump a compelling option for those seeking effective performance at a more budget-friendly price point
