Pumppaushäviöt

Pumppaushäviöt, also known as pumping losses, refer to the energy consumed by a reciprocating pump or compressor to move fluid through its internal components during the suction and discharge strokes. These losses are distinct from friction losses or leakage losses, though they often contribute to the overall inefficiency of the device.

During the suction stroke, a partial vacuum is created within the cylinder. As the piston or diaphragm moves outward, the fluid enters the cylinder. The energy required to overcome the resistance to flow into the cylinder, including the inertia of the fluid and any pressure drop across the suction valve, constitutes a component of pumppaushäviöt.

Similarly, during the discharge stroke, the piston or diaphragm moves inward, compressing and expelling the fluid. The energy needed to overcome the resistance to flow out of the cylinder, including the inertia of the fluid and pressure losses across the discharge valve, also contributes to pumppaushäviöt. These valve losses, in particular, can be significant, especially if the valves are not optimally designed or if the fluid is viscous.

Factors influencing pumppaushäviöt include the speed of operation, the viscosity and density of the fluid being pumped, the design and condition of the valves, and the internal geometry of the pump or compressor. Minimizing these losses is crucial for improving the volumetric efficiency and overall energy efficiency of reciprocating fluid machinery. This can be achieved through careful design of valve systems, optimization of operating speeds, and selection of appropriate fluid properties.