The pumped fluid determines material selection and service life more than any other factor. Two identical pumps at the same pressure and flow rate can reach very different service lives – depending on what passes through them and how well it is filtered.
Suitable crankcase oil and further accessories are available in the product section. For unusual fluids we define the material combination together with you – get in touch.
What water quality do CAT PUMPS high-pressure pumps require?
As guide values: fresh water with 100 to 120 µm filtration; service water with a maximum of 50 µm filtration, no more than 0.5 percent by volume of suspended solids and pH 5 to 9; abrasive process water with 10 to 20 µm filtration, no more than 0.4 percent by volume of foreign matter and pH 6 to 8. Water quality directly affects the service life of every wear part – regular filter maintenance is essential.
Can I pump demineralised or RO water?
Yes. Demineralised and reverse-osmosis water are, however, more aggressive than tap water because they are "ion hungry". Depending on conductivity, special versions are used, such as pumps with a flushed seal arrangement or stainless steel materials. Tell us the conductivity of your water in µS/cm and we will recommend the right version.
Can I pump hot water?
Yes, with adapted system design. As water temperature rises, so does the tendency to vaporise and therefore to cavitate. From around 54 °C the inlet should be pressurised; reduced speed, larger inlet lines and an inlet stabiliser also help. The maximum permissible temperature additionally depends on the seal material – we select the right material combination for your temperature.
Can fluids other than water be pumped?
Many chemicals, cleaning solutions and special fluids are possible. What matters is compatibility with the wetted materials in the manifold, valves and seals – we check chemical resistance case by case. Important: details of the fluid, its concentration and temperature belong in every enquiry.
Why is a suction filter so important?
Foreign particles in the fluid are among the most common causes of stuck valves, scored plungers and premature seal failure. A correctly sized filter on the suction side – large enough not to create inlet restriction – and its regular cleaning considerably extend pump life.