Mechanics of Progressive Cavity Pumps: Exploring Their Construction and Working Principles

Progressive cavity pumps are an essential component in a variety of industrial applications and are known for their ability to handle a wide range of liquids, including clean fluids, low-viscosity to high-viscosity media, and even some corrosive substances after selecting the right materials.  In this blog, we will take a deep dive into the structure and working principle of progressive cavity pumps, focusing on their versatility and efficiency in fluid transfer.

Screw pump structure

1. Screw rotor: The core component of the screw pump, these rotors are usually made of high-strength materials to resist wear and corrosion. There are many different designs, and single-screw, twin-screw or triple-screw configurations can be selected according to application requirements.

2. Casing: The casing contains the screw rotor, which is used to carry the fluid being pumped. The casing can adopt a variety of structures, including horizontal and vertical designs, to adapt to different installation spaces and operating requirements.

3. Bushing: To increase durability and prevent wear, screw pumps are often fitted with bushings within the casing. These bushings can be made from a variety of materials and can be customized based on the type of fluid being handled.

4. Drive Mechanism: The drive mechanism is usually an electric motor or hydraulic system that provides the necessary power to rotate the screw rotor. This rotation keeps the liquid moving in the pump.

5. Seals and Bearings: The right seal and bearing system is critical to maintaining efficiency and preventing leaks. These components are designed to handle the pressures and temperatures of specific applications.

Working principle of screw pump

The working principle of a screw pump is relatively simple, yet extremely efficient. As the screw rotors rotate, they create a series of cavities that trap the liquid and keep it moving within the pump. Here is a detailed breakdown of the process:

1. Suction: Liquid enters the pump body through the suction port. The design of the screw rotor ensures smooth liquid suction, minimizes turbulence and ensures stable flow.

2. Transfer: As the rotor continues to rotate, trapped liquid is transported along the length of the screw. The helical design of the rotor allows for continuous, pulsation-free flow, making the Twin Screw Pump an ideal choice for applications that require steady delivery.

3. Discharge: After the liquid reaches the end of the screw rotor, it is discharged through the discharge port. The pressure generated by the rotating screw ensures that the liquid is delivered at the required flow rate and pressure.

Versatility and Applications

One of the outstanding features of screw pumps is their versatility. They can convey a wide range of clean liquids without solid particles and are suitable for the following industries:

Food and Beverage: Transport oils, syrups and other viscous liquids.
Chemical Processing: Selecting the right materials to handle aggressive media.
Oil & Gas: Efficient transportation of crude oil and other hydrocarbons.
Water treatment: Pumping of clean water and wastewater.

in conclusion

The screw pump has become an indispensable tool in many industrial fields due to its solid structure and efficient working principle.  It is available in horizontal and vertical configurations, can handle a variety of liquids, and provides a reliable solution for fluid transportation needs. Understanding the structure and working principle of the screw pump can help various industries choose the right pump for specific applications to ensure optimal performance and service life.  Whether you are dealing with low viscosity fluids or more challenging corrosive media, the screw pump can meet the needs of modern industrial processes.


Post time: Jul-23-2025