Vertical Inline Pump vs Horizontal Inline Pump

Centrifugal pumps provide a wide range of applications which are not only industrial but domestic as well. They are best known for their excellence in bearing high temperatures and pressure with a great flow of liquid. They are the most common type of suction pump since they are suitable for handling liquid and are easy to manufacture. Now, centrifugal pumps can be divided into two kinds vertical inline pumps and horizontal inline pumps. What is the difference between these two? Give this article a read to get all your answers!  

The Difference in Structure

The primary and most crucial difference between horizontal and vertical inline pumps is their structure. Just as their names imply, shafts are oriented horizontally in horizontal pumps. Usually, they are situated between bearings or between cantilevers. On the other hand, in vertical inline pumps, shafting is radially dissected and overhung vertically.

Difference of Space

Horizontal pumps require less headroom, but they need more floor space compared to vertical inline pumps, whereas vertical inline pumps require more headroom as they are vertical, but they are space friendly and require less floor space. Hence they are suitable for the application where the area is restricted.

Tolerance of High Pressure and Temperature

Horizontal pumps cannot handle the high pressure and temperature of fluid on the suction side. On the other hand, vertical inline pumps are best known for their efficient working during high-pressure and high-temperature conditions. Their flow rate is continuous, which makes working stable and easy to adjust. Vertical inline pumps are often chosen over horizontal inline pumps for this factor due to the nature of applications. 

Priming

Priming is required in horizontal pumps except for self-priming pumps. While on the contrary, priming is not necessary for vertical inline pumps.

Maintenance and Installation

Horizontal pumps are comparatively easy to install, and their maintenance is also easy. In comparison, the maintenance and installation of vertical pumps can be complicated and challenging sometimes.

Headroom

Horizontal pumps require less headroom which makes them ideal for indoor applications, and vertical inline pumps require high headroom, which is why they are sometimes difficult to install and maintain. Furthermore, they also need a pit and bucket (in multi-stage pumps).

Attachment to External Accessories

Horizontal inline pumps are easy to attach. They can easily and securely connect to external accessories such as turbines, electric motors, or fuel engines. In contrast, vertical inline pumps can only get coupled to an electric motor.

Applications of Vertical Inline Pumps vs Applications of Horizontal Inline Pumps

Both types of centrifugal pumps have different applications. For example, horizontal pumps are used for water circulation, spraying systems, liquid transfer, and general purposes. At the same time, vertical pumps are best for condensation, booster stations, lift stations, and fire stations.

Yes, it can be critical to choose whether you should be installing a horizontal inline pump or the vertical inline pump. Still, with the insights from this article, the differences between the two types of inline pumps are more apparent. Make sure you consider your convenience and the needs of your application.