A practical reference for preparing enquiries and understanding the variables that affect equipment performance.
| Information | Why It Is Needed |
|---|---|
| Flow rate | Defines the required process capacity and position on the pump curve. |
| Total dynamic head | Represents the energy per unit weight the pump must add at the required flow. |
| Suction conditions | Needed to assess NPSH margin and cavitation risk. |
| Liquid properties | Density, viscosity, temperature, solids and chemistry affect power, materials and hydraulic performance. |
| Operating range | Minimum, normal and maximum flow help assess whether operation is acceptably close to the preferred range. |
| Power & controls | Voltage, frequency, motor requirements and VFD use influence package design. |
| Information | Why It Is Needed |
|---|---|
| Function | Defines whether the component must control direction, pressure, flow, linear motion or rotary motion. |
| Operating pressure | Sets available actuator force and component pressure requirements. |
| Required speed / cycle rate | Helps establish valve flow, tubing size and air consumption. |
| Load / force | Used with pressure to estimate actuator bore and mechanical margin. |
| Ports & threads | Required for physical compatibility with existing equipment and fittings. |
| Air quality & environment | Dust, water, washdown, temperature and contamination influence preparation and component design. |
Best Efficiency Point: the region on a centrifugal pump curve where efficiency is highest.
Net Positive Suction Head: used when assessing whether sufficient suction pressure exists to avoid excessive cavitation.
The relationship between required head and flow for the piping system, combining static head and friction effects.
Filter-Regulator-Lubricator assembly used to condition compressed air at the point of use.
A directional valve with five ports and two switching positions, commonly used to control double-acting cylinders.
Loss of pressure caused by flow resistance through pipework, tubing, fittings, filters, valves and other components.
Connection size does not define the pump's hydraulic performance. Required flow, head, NPSH, speed, impeller, liquid properties and system curve must be considered.
Available flow may be restricted by undersized valves, tubing, fittings, flow controls or exhaust silencers. Dynamic pressure at the actuator can be lower than the static regulator reading.
Nameplate/model, existing pump curve, duty flow/head, motor details, connection sizes, liquid details, dimensions and photos of the installation.
Manufacturer/model, valve function, port/thread size, operating pressure, coil voltage, connector type, manual override and manifold arrangement if applicable.