A gear pump is a type of positive displacement pump that uses meshing gears to transfer fluids. Invented around 1600 by Johannes Kepler, they deliver a fixed volume of fluid with each revolution, making the flow rate directly proportional to the shaft speed. They are frequently used for pumping high viscosity fluids such as oil, paints, resins, or foodstuffs. Gear pumps come in two main designs: external and internal. External gear pumps use two identical interlocking gears supported by separate shafts. Internal gear pumps have two interlocking gears of different sizes, with one rotating inside the other.
Gear pumps are known for their simple design, reliability, and ability to handle viscous fluids. They are typically made from materials like cast iron, stainless steel, or bronze, with newer models using alloys and composites to handle corrosive liquids. They are used across various industries including engineering, agriculture, chemical processing, and oil and gas. Numerous manufacturers produce gear pumps, including Viking Pumps, Tuthill Corporation, and Northern Pump. Gear pump prices vary based on type and materials, with some starting as low as $1,340 and ranging to $6,694 or more. Many suppliers offer a wide selection of gear pumps, and they are generally available for purchase.
