Pumps: Types, Applications & Selection Guide

Pumps are essential mechanical assets in the oil and gas industry, used to transport fluids such as crude oil, refined products, water, and chemicals across upstream, midstream, and downstream operations. They play a critical role in extraction, processing, and distribution, ensuring efficient flow and pressure maintenance in pipelines, refineries, and offshore platforms.

Given the harsh operating conditions—including high pressures, corrosive fluids, and extreme temperatures—pump selection, maintenance, and performance optimization are vital for operational reliability.

Types of Pumps Used in Oil & Gas

1. Centrifugal Pumps

How They Work: Use rotating impellers to create flow via centrifugal force.
Applications:
– Crude oil transfer in pipelines
– Water injection for enhanced oil recovery (EOR)
– Refinery process circulation
Advantages:
– High flow rates
– Simple design, easy maintenance
– Suitable for low-to-medium viscosity fluids

2. Reciprocating Pumps

(Positive Displacement)
How They Work: Use pistons or plungers to displace fluid in a cyclic motion.
Applications:
– High-pressure injection (e.g., chemical dosing, hydraulic fracturing)
– Pipeline boosting for viscous fluids
Advantages:
– Precise flow control
– Handles high-pressure applications
– Works well with thick fluids (e.g., heavy crude, drilling mud)

3. Screw Pumps (Progressive Cavity & Twin-Screw)

How They Work: Use rotating screws to move fluid through cavities.
Applications:
– Transfer of multiphase fluids (oil, gas, water mixtures)
– Fuel and lube oil transfer
-Advantages:
– Handles abrasive and viscous fluids
– Low pulsation, smooth flow

4. Gear Pumps

How They Work: Use meshing gears to push fluid through the pump.
Applications:
– Lubrication systems
– Chemical injection
Advantages:
– Compact and efficient
– Good for high-pressure, low-flow applications

5. Submersible Pumps (ESP – Electric Submersible Pumps)

How They Work: Operate underwater, pushing fluids to the surface.
Applications:
– Offshore oil production
– Dewatering in wells
Advantages:
– High efficiency in deep wells
– Reduces surface footprint

Key Selection Criteria for Oil & Gas Pumps

Choosing the right pump depends on:
✔ Fluid Properties (viscosity, corrosiveness, gas content)
✔ Flow Rate & Pressure Requirements
✔ Operating Environment (offshore, onshore, high-temperature)
✔ Energy Efficiency & Maintenance Needs
✔ Compliance with Industry Standards (API, ISO, ANSI)