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How to Select a Pulsation Dampener for Metering Pump Systems

Pulsation dampeners are commonly used in metering (dosing) pump piping systems to reduce pulsation and improve the overall performance and longevity of the system. 

They are typically categorized into three main types: air chamber type, diaphragm type, and bladder type. The selection of a pulse dampener depends on several factors, including

 the system's pressure requirements, the desired level of pulsation reduction, and maintenance considerations. Below is a breakdown of each type of pulse dampener and the criteria

 for selecting the most suitable option.

1. Air Chamber Type Pulsation Dampener

The air chamber type Pulsation dampener operates by using a pressurized air chamber within the unit. The liquid in the pipeline compresses the air inside, creating a buffering effect

 that helps mitigate pulsations.

Advantages:

Low cost.

Suitable for systems with less demanding buffering requirements.

Disadvantages:

The air inside the chamber can dissolve into the medium over time, reducing its effectiveness.

Requires periodic maintenance to restore the air volume, which involves removing the dampener and reconnecting it to the atmosphere.

Selection Method:

To reduce pulsation by 90%, multiply the volume of each pump stroke (in milliliters) by 26 to determine the minimum dampener volume required.

2. Diaphragm Type Pulsation Dampener

The diaphragm type pulse dampener consists of a fluoroplastic diaphragm separating the upper and lower chambers. This design prevents the liquid and precharged gas from mixing,

 resulting in improved buffering effects compared to the air chamber type.

Advantages:

More efficient at reducing pulsations.

Easier to maintain because the liquid and gas are separated.

Higher pressure resistance options (Plastic  type can withstand up to 1.0 MPa; steel type can handle up to 10 MPa).

Disadvantages:

Higher cost than the air chamber type.

Selection Method:

To reduce pulsation by 90%, multiply the volume of each stroke (in milliliters) by 10 to determine the minimum dampener volume required.

3. Bladder Type Pulsation Dampener

The bladder type Pulsation dampener uses an air bladder inside a pressurized tank. As liquid flows through the system, it compresses the bladder, which then expands, effectively damping the pulsations.

Advantages:

Can withstand high pressures (up to 31.5 MPa).

Effective in high-pressure systems requiring robust pulsation control.

Disadvantages:

Higher cost compared to both the air chamber and diaphragm types.

Special materials and longer production lead times may be required for some applications.

Selection Method:

Like the diaphragm type, to reduce pulsation by 90%, multiply the volume of each stroke (in milliliters) by 10 to calculate the minimum dampener volume required.

Key Selection Considerations:

Pressure Requirements: If your system operates at high pressures, such as those exceeding 1.0 MPa, the bladder type pulse dampener is the best choice due to its high pressure tolerance.

 Diaphragm types can handle moderate pressures, while air chamber types are suitable for lower pressure applications.

Maintenance and Ease of Use: The diaphragm type offers the easiest maintenance because the gas and liquid are separated. The air chamber type requires periodic recharging of air, while 

bladder types may require specialized maintenance procedures.

Cost and Budget: If cost is a critical factor, the air chamber type is the most economical option. However, if performance and longevity are prioritized, diaphragm or bladder types may be

 better, despite their higher cost.

By considering these factors, you can choose the most appropriate Pulsation dampener for your metering pump system to ensure reliable performance and reduced pulsation.


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