pump comparisons

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Parameter	Centrifugal Pumps	Reciprocating Pumps	Rotary Pumps
Optimum Flow and Pressure Applications	Medium/High Capacity, Low/Medium Pressure	Low Capacity, High Pressure	Low/Medium Capacity, Low/Medium Pressure
Maximum Flow Rate	20,000+ m3/h	2,000+ m3/h	2,000+ m3/h
Low Flow Rate Capability	No	Yes	Yes
Maximum Pressure	400+ bar	7,000+ bar	300+ bar
Requires Relief Valve	No	Yes	Yes
Smooth or Pulsating Flow	Smooth	Pulsating	Smooth
Variable or Constant Flow	Variable	Constant	Constant
Self-priming	No	Yes	Yes
Space Considerations	Requires Less Space	Requires More Space	Requires Less Space
Costs	Lower Initial Lower Maintenance Higher Power	Higher Initial Higher Maintenance Lower Power	Lower Initial Lower Maintenance Lower Power
Fluid Handling	Suitable for a wide range including clean, clear, non-abrasive fluids to fluids with abrasive, high-solid content. Not suitable for high viscosity fluids Lower tolerance for entrained gases	Suitable for clean, clear, non-abrasive fluids.  Specially-fitted pumps suitable for abrasive-slurry service. Suitable for high viscosity fluids Higher tolerance for entrained gases	Requires clean, clear, non-abrasive fluid due to close tolerances    Optimum performance with high viscosity fluids Higher tolerance for entrained gases