Cryogenic Pumps

Cryogenic pumps are a central element to many engineering structures and, as such, the choice of a cryogenic pump plays a crucial role in guaranteeing their efficiency and optimization.

 

The Usefulness of Cryogenic Pumps

A cryogenic pump is a type of cryogenic equipment in charge of the transfer and pressurization of liquefied gasses.

 

A cryogenic pump's power depends on the freezing and boiling points of the choice of gas. As such, it is used for cryogenic fluid applications including LNG (liquefied natural gas), LIN (liquefied Nitrogen) , LOX(liquefied Oxygen), LAR(liquefied Argon) and LCO2

The cryopump thus plays a key role in many processes involving pure and mixed industrial and technical gasses.

 

Main applications for cryogenic pumps include:

 

•           Process and transfer applications at cryogenic temperatures

•           Unloading operations from Cryogenic tankers

•           Air separation units (ASU)

•           Bunkering

•           Gas transportation operations

 

In what industries are cryogenic pumps used?

Marine industry

The marine industry is mainly in need of cryogenic pumps for bunkering applications related to Liquefied Natural Gas supplying processes.

 

Demand for this sort of system is growing as (LNG) gains traction and represents a greener alternative in the marine industry, which is facing the challenge of decarbonization and moving towards more sustainable energy sources.

Automotive sector

As the automotive sector advances in finding alternatives, more sustainable fuels, the demand for reliable cryogenic pumps suppliers grows in this industry. Accordingly, cryopumps are installed in LNG and compressed natural gas (L-CNG) refueling stations.

 

Industrial and manufacturing sectors

Cryogenic pumps are a crucial tool in many industrial applications in need for pure technical gasses stored at cryogenic temperatures. Steel production and the manufacturing of electronics are two examples of such applications.

 

Other sectors

Other industries in need for cryogenic pumps include the medical sector, oil fields, aerospace applications and space programs or material research processes, among others.

  

Types of Cryogenic pumps

1. Centrifugal cryogenic  pump

The cryogenic centrifugal pump (also known as receiver or generator) transforms mechanical energy of an impeller or runner into kinetic or pressure energy. Using centrifugal forces, it expels cryogenic liquids to the outside.

The centrifugal cryogenic pump is adequate for dealing with LNG, nitrogen, oxygen, ethylene, hydrogen and carbon dioxide, among other cryogenic gasses.

This type of cryopump includes the following features:

·       Can be operated using gears and a fixed-speed motor or coupled to variable speed motors.

·       They can be powered by electric motors with direct transmission as well as hydraulic power.

·       Higher capacities and pressures can be achieved if a yearbox is included between the motor and the pump.

·       The cold box must include a gas-seal.

This category may include multiple functioning systems, from one or two-stage pumps to stationary pumps, pumps on tankers and removable pumps.

 

The centrifugal cryogenic pump has many applications, including maritime bunkering, submerged marine fuel systems and liquid storage transferences, among others.

 

2. Piston or reciprocating cryogenic pumps

As cryogenic pumps suppliers, we also provide piston or reciprocating cryogenic pumps ranging from MRP pumps (used for the high-pressure filling of air gasses) to specialized pumps for the use of LNG, hydrogen, and other liquefied gasses.

 

Reciprocating cryogenic  pumps compress liquids using piston movements at high pressures. This results in dislodging the fluid volume equivalent to that which it occupies during its stroke.

 

Reciprocating cryogenic pumps are used in many applications, including high-pressure LNG and air gasses applications. Both single and double electric motor systems are available, as well as single and multi-stage versions.

 

This type of cryopump is useful for many applications, including high-pressure pumping, and the filling of storage systems for cryogenic substances such as LNG, LN2, LH2, among others.

 

3. Submerged pumps

Submerged cryogenic pumps are used when low temperatures are needed for liquids to be transported. As a consequence, they're a common feature in the production and transport of liquid nitrogen, liquid natural gas (LNG), liquid Helium, and liquid Oxygen and in ship to ship bunkering processes.

 

In terms of cryogenic pump maintenance, incorrect processes may result in poor motor performance or poor insulation, leading to repeated part replacements and consequent reduced service life.

 

Get in touch with our team of experts and learn more about how we can help you secure the best options for your cryogenic  equipment.