 |
| Crude Oil is Pump |
Introducion
Crude oil dispatch pumps are essential in the oil and gas industry for transporting crude oil and gas through pipelines. These specialized pumps efficiently move oil from wellheads to storage tanks, group gathering stations (GGS), central processing facilities (CPF), and refineries. Designed to handle viscous crude, they maintain optimal pressure and flow rates, preventing system damage. Whether transferring oil to trucks, pipelines, or processing units, these robust pumps ensure smooth operations, minimizing losses in the production system. A critical component for seamless crude oil transportation.
Crude oil’s journey from deep underground to a gas pump relies on powerful pumps unsung heroes of the energy industry. They move oil from extraction sites through pipelines to refineries, making modern oil and gas operations possible. Among them, oil dispatch pumps are vital for safe, efficient transport from storage tanks to pipelines and refineries. Common types include centrifugal pumps for large volumes, reciprocating pumps for smaller volumes, and positive displacement pumps for precise flow control. Built to withstand high pressure, temperature, and corrosive fluids, these pumps must be durable and well-maintained. A low-pressure crude oil dispatch pump uses a diesel-fueled, self-priming rotary design with sliding vanes, internal bypass, and relief valves ideal for transferring volatile or viscous fluids in lube oil, fleet refueling, and petrochemical applications.
What is a Crude Oil Dispatch Pump?
A crude oil dispatch pump is a specialized pumping system used to move crude oil from storage facilities to pipelines, and from pipelines to refineries. It plays a critical role in ensuring that crude oil is transported efficiently, safely, and without interruption. These pumps are designed to handle large volumes of oil under high pressure and temperature, and to withstand corrosive properties of crude oil. By maintaining a steady and controlled flow, crude oil dispatch pumps help keep the petroleum supply chain running smoothly, from production sites to processing plants.
Pumps Used for Pumping Crude Oil
Crude oil is transported using centrifugal pumps or positive displacement pumps, depending on the operational needs and the oil’s characteristics. Each pump type has specific advantages based on distance, pressure, and fluid viscosity.
1. Centrifugal Pumps
 |
| Centrifugal Pump |
Centrifugal pumps are widely used for moving large volumes of crude oil over short distances, such as from storage tanks to loading terminals or between refinery units. They operate by converting rotational energy from a motor into kinetic energy, pushing the fluid through the system.
Key Features:
- Best for low to medium viscosity fluids
- Simple, reliable design
- Low maintenance requirements
- Ideal for continuous, high-volume transfer
2. Positive Displacement Pumps
Positive displacement pumps, including screw pumps, gear pumps, and reciprocating pumps, are preferred for long-distance transport or when high pressures are required. These pumps work by trapping a fixed volume of fluid and forcing it through the discharge outlet, making them highly efficient for viscous fluids.
Key Features:
- Handles high viscosity fluids
- Provides precise flow control
- Suitable for high-pressure applications
- Requires more maintenance and careful monitoring of viscosity and pressure changes
By selecting the right pump type, the oil industry ensures safe, efficient, and reliable crude oil transportation.
Types of Crude Oil Dispatch Pumps
In the oil industry, different pumps are used based on flow requirements, pressure needs, and fluid characteristics. The main types include:
1. Centrifugal Pumps
The most common crude oil dispatch pumps, ideal for large-volume transfer from storage tanks to pipelines. They operate by converting rotational energy into fluid movement, making them efficient for continuous high-flow applications.
2. Reciprocating Pumps
 |
| Reciprocating pumps |
Used for smaller-volume transfers and situations requiring high pressure. These pumps use a piston or plunger to move oil, making them suitable for moving crude oil from pipelines to refineries.
3. Positive Displacement Pumps
Best for precise flow control and handling viscous or volatile fluids. They trap a fixed amount of fluid and force it through the pump, ensuring consistent delivery even under varying pressures.
Other Types of Oil Dispatch Pumps
In addition to centrifugal and positive displacement pumps, the oil industry uses several other pump types for specific applications:
Gear Pumps
"Gear pumps, a common positive displacement pump, use meshing gears to move fluid. Ideal for high-viscosity and clean fluids, they’re widely used in chemical transfer. Variants include external gear pumps for non-lubricating fluids and internal gear pumps for smooth flow. Each revolution moves a fixed volume, and relief valves protect the system from overpressure."
Ideal for handling viscous oils, these pumps use rotating gears to move fluid with consistent flow and pressure.
Metering Pumps
"A metering pump delivers precise, adjustable flow rates over a set time, ideal for accurate fluid dosing. Commonly simplex reciprocating with a packed plunger or diaphragm, the diaphragm design prevents leaks by sealing the fluid. Used in industries like power plants, mining, and fire-fighting, these pumps handle high suction pressures and heavy-duty operations with long-lasting performance."
Designed for precise flow control, often used when accurate dosing of oil or chemicals is required.
Diaphragm Pumps
"Diaphragm pumps, highly versatile in the oil and gas industry, use valves and diaphragms for positive displacement fluid transfer. Ideal for high-volume refinery operations, they need minimal maintenance due to fewer moving parts. Compact in design, they suit short-distance use but are not ideal for continuous or high-pressure pumping. Back-pressure regulators can fix low-pressure 'winks' issues."
 |
| Diaphragm |
Suitable for corrosive or abrasive fluids, using a flexible diaphragm to separate the fluid from moving parts.
Progressive Cavity Pumps
"A progressive cavity pump, also called an eccentric screw pump, moves fluid through fixed cavities for constant flow. Ideal for high-viscosity applications, it prevents mixing, handles steady pressure, and requires relief valves for safe operation."
 |
Excellent for thick or shear-sensitive fluids, moving liquid smoothly through a helical rotor and stator design.
These pumps expand the options for safe, efficient, and application-specific oil transfer across the petroleum industry.
How a Crude Oil Dispatch Pump Works
Many crude oil dispatch pumps, especially low-pressure models, operate on the rotary pump principle. In this design, a rotor fitted with sliding vanes draws oil into the pump chamber, traps it, and then pushes it toward the discharge outlet.
These pumps are often diesel-fueled and have a self-priming capability, meaning they can start pumping without manual priming. An internal bypass valve helps regulate the flow and prevent overloading, while a relief valve protects the system from excess pressure, ensuring safety and longer pump life.
Thanks to their ability to handle volatile and viscous fluids at relatively low horsepower, rotary dispatch pumps are ideal for applications like lube oil transfer, fleet refueling, and petrochemical handling.
Applications of Crude Oil Dispatch Pumps
Crude oil dispatch pumps are used across multiple stages of the petroleum supply chain, ensuring smooth and efficient transport. Key applications include:
- Transferring Crude Oil from Storage Tanks to Pipelines – For long-distance transportation to refineries.
- Moving Oil from Pipelines to Refineries – Ensuring a steady and controlled flow for processing.
- Lube Oil Transfer – Handling refined lubricating oils in industrial and marine settings.
- Fleet Refueling – Supplying fuel to transportation fleets quickly and efficiently.
- Petrochemical Handling – Transferring chemicals and oil-based products safely in industrial plants.
These applications highlight the pump’s versatility in handling high volumes, varying viscosities, and challenging conditions.
Goma’s Crude Oil Dispatch Pumps
Goma Engineering Pvt. Ltd. manufactures low-pressure crude oil dispatch pumps designed for efficient transfer of crude oil and other industrial fluids. Apart from crude oil, these pumps are also used for lube oil transfer, fleet refueling, and petrochemical handling.
Key Features of Goma’s Dispatch Pumps
- Rotary Pump Design – Uses a rotor with sliding vanes to draw and move liquids efficiently.
- Self-Priming Capability – Can start pumping without manual liquid filling.
- Multiple Size Options – Available in different sizes to match various flow rate needs.
- Adjustable Performance Parameters – Allows customization to suit specific operations.
- Durable Cast Iron Construction – Provides excellent resistance to rust and wear.
- Handles Volatile & Viscous Fluids – Operates effectively at lower horsepower, saving energy.
Types of Goma’s Crude Oil Dispatch Pumps
- Electric motor-driven pump built to global safety standards.
- Suitable for low flashpoint fluids such as gasoline and benzene.
- Self-priming rotary pump powered by a diesel engine.
- Designed for mobility and use in remote locations.
Goma’s pumps are known for their versatility, durability, and efficiency, making them a reliable choice for various oil and petroleum industry applications.
Challenges & Maintenance of Crude Oil Dispatch Pumps
Crude oil dispatch pumps operate under demanding conditions, facing high pressures, extreme temperatures, and corrosive fluids. These stresses can cause wear, reduce efficiency, and increase the risk of mechanical failure if not properly managed.
Common challenges include:
- Corrosion and Rusting from prolonged contact with crude oil and chemicals.
- Seal and Bearing Wear due to continuous high-pressure operation.
- Clogging or Blockages from heavy or viscous fluids.
- Proper maintenance is essential for safe and reliable operation. This includes:
- Regular inspection of seals, bearings, and valves.
Timely replacement of worn-out parts.
- Lubrication and cleaning to prevent deposits and blockages.
- Monitoring flow rate and pressure to detect early faults.
A well-maintained pump ensures longer service life, higher efficiency, and reduced downtime, keeping oil transportation safe and uninterrupted.
