Helical noise reducing gear pumps and how they work to maintain quiet system operation? In our latest blog we explain how noise reducing pumps are a popular choice amongst manufacturers who are looking for quieter pump operation whilst retaining optimal performance and reliability.
With strict operational regulations and health and safety measures always in force, companies are looking to streamline the performance of their gear pumps to be both productive whilst at the same time conforming to the regulations in place.
Noise reduction is one of the areas in question and pump manufacturers are always considering new measures to help quieten pump noise to counter the competition. The noise from a pump itself centres on the pulsating like flow the pump produces with different style pumps producing different pitches of sound such as from piston, vane and gear style pumps.
As well as the different varieties of pump, the size, operational pressure and speed also play big parts in the level of noise generated from a pump. Even small differences from pump to pump like the number of gear teeth and their geometry may emit a different pitch level.
So, what is a helical gear pump?
The helical toothed pump was originally developed in Italy and comprises of a Continuum pump which contains teeth that are in constant contact with one another which means the pumps sound level sits at an impressively low 52 dBA.
As the teeth are in contact with one another at all times, the common sound of gear teeth meshing is alleviated thus reducing noise levels and ensuring that flow levels stay consistent throughout the pump. This is achieved by the redesign of gear teeth, changing their size and angle as to ensure constant contact.
What other factors can produce gear pump noise?
As we mentioned above, typical mechanical pump noise commonly originates from grinding gear teeth but due to the pumps hydraulic function, the turbulence of hydraulic fluid travelling through the pump can also contribute to noise levels with fluid getting trapped between gear teeth and also flow pulsation. Cavitation can also cause noise and has the potential to damage the interior structure of the pump.
When fluid pressure peaks due to entrapment of hydraulic fluid between gear teeth this can cause problems with involute type gear pumps and ultimately lead to the potential of mechanical stress. The helical pump design reduces this stress as it allows fluid to pump at a more gradual rate.
Special gaskets which allow for free axial and radial movement from the bushes of the pump can be fitted to further reduce noise and the added benefit of this is that chance of pump leakage is vastly reduced. This also aids in pump lubrication to all necessary components thus ensuring optimal efficiency and longevity of the gear pump.
Hydraproducts stocks a range of helical gear pumps in various specifications to suit your bespoke hydraulic power unit, and more information can be found on these by visiting our components division web page.