Pumps, which are used to transfer, circulate, or filter liquids from one place to another, are equipment encountered in almost every application that involves the word “liquid.”
Pumps are not only classified according to their types and areas of use but also according to the type of liquid they carry. For example, if the liquid to be pumped contains hazardous chemicals or if the pump needs to operate fully submerged in the liquid, different pump types are required because the process differs. This is where the use of magnetic coupling pumps becomes necessary. Let’s briefly define what a magnetic coupling pump is.
A magnetic coupling pump is a type of pump that operates based on the principles of magnetism. These pumps are designed to transfer toxic or other hazardous liquids without using a mechanical seal. Electrical components are completely enclosed, and the magnetic force is transmitted via a magnet positioned on the shaft that rotates the impeller. While magnetic coupling pumps are primarily used for hazardous substances, they also offer several advantages. One of the main benefits is that they do not require sealing equipment, eliminating common issues such as seal wear, which could otherwise endanger the pump.
However, magnetic coupling pumps are not entirely risk-free; regular maintenance is necessary and may be more frequent compared to other pump types. If the transported liquid is flammable, toxic, radioactive, or otherwise poses a threat to human health and the environment, even a minor leak can be extremely dangerous. Magnetic coupling pumps are considered a cost-effective type of pump. In addition, their installation is generally easier and faster than other pump types. ###
Working Principle of Magnetic Coupling Pumps
Magnetic coupling pumps consist of an impeller and magnets, which are connected to the motor. The magnets are attached to the pump’s drive assembly. When the motor operates, it rotates the magnet, which in turn drives the impeller through magnetic force. Magnetic coupling pumps are generally centrifugal pumps. The working principle relies on a balanced magnetic field to ensure proper impeller rotation. The outer magnet connected to the motor drives the inner magnet located on the impeller. As a result, the impeller rotates, moving the liquid within the pump. The inner and outer magnets are separated by a sealing arrangement, allowing the pump to operate safely without direct contact between the motor and the fluid.
Applications of Magnetic Coupling Pumps
As mentioned earlier, magnetic coupling pumps are used for transferring liquids containing hazardous substances. Their applications depend on the type of liquid being transferred. Some of the chemicals typically handled by magnetic coupling pumps include hydrochloric acid, methane, sodium sulfate, sodium hydroxide, sodium hypochlorite, and sulfuric acid. Specific applications include:
- Liquids containing chemicals such as paints and oils, corrosive acids like hydrochloric or sulfuric acid
- Loading and unloading operations of tankers carrying dangerous or flammable liquids
- Applications where the liquid could corrode seals or cause crystallization on sealing surfaces
NM M-Drive Series Magnetic Coupling Seal-less Centrifugal Pump Features
One type of magnetic coupling pump, the centrifugal pump, is used to transfer corrosive, explosive, flammable, toxic, valuable, volatile, and high-temperature fluids. These pumps are commonly used in the petrochemical sector, for transferring hazardous liquids such as detergents in the food industry, in harmful gas treatment systems, biodiesel plants, HVAC systems, power generation plants, solar energy systems, the medical sector, electrostatic painting, and carbon arc furnace cooling systems.
These are single-stage, end-suction, seal-less pumps with dynamically balanced closed impellers. The pump-to-motor connection is made on a common base using a magnetic coupling. Major dimensions comply with TS EN 733 standards. Since the pump can be separated from the piping while leaving the volute casing connected, maintenance and repair are easy and efficient, saving time and effort.