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Why are gear pumps unsuitable for liquids containing solid particles?
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pump
Figure 1: External gear pump
Gear pumps are considered unsuitable for liquids containing solid particles because they are highly susceptible to clogging.1
In a gear pump, fluid is transferred between the rotating gear teeth and the fixed casing. The presence of solid particles can interfere with these tight internal clearances, leading to operational issues and potential damage to the pump's components. Because these pumps rely on the liquid being pumped to lubricate their internal moving parts, the introduction of solids disrupts this process and increases the risk of failure.1