05.01 What types of pumps are used for fuel transfer?

Fuel transfer pumps are of 3 primary types:

Positive Displacement / Gear Pumps:

• Best Application: Fuel transfer from bulk tanks to generator, filtration polishing systems, generator tank return flow pumps, boiler feed pumps.
• Common Brands are Viking, Blackmer, and Tuthill.
• Benefits: excellent suction characteristics up to about 20 vertical feet, high pressure output capability to several hundred PSI, very low to high flow capacities from 0.25 to several hundred GPM, relatively constant output through range of pressures. Available in full range of voltages and horsepower.
• Limitations: Suction piping characteristics can make starting and keeping prime a problem. Higher flow rate pumps can be relatively higher in cost. Noise and vibration can be relatively higher than alternatives.
• Most Common Problems: Loss of prime in suction piping. Overpressure of discharge piping if improper setting of pressure regulating valves. Debris in pump head if improper strainer.

Centrifugal Pumps:

• Best Application: Transfer to and from delivery vehicles to bulk tanks with flooded suction condition.
• Common Brands are Gorman Rupp and Gould.
• Benefits: High flow rates at relatively low costs.
• Limitations: Limited suction capabilities. Capacity decreases at higher pressures.
• Most Common Problem: Difficulty in self-prime

Submersible Turbine Pumps:

• Best Application: Fuel transfer from underground or aboveground tanks to generator day tanks and boiler feed at limited pressure.
• Common Brands are Red Jacket and FE Petro.
• Benefits: No suction or priming issues. Relatively high flow rates. Relatively low costs.
• Limitations: Pressure limitation of 50 PSI. Not available as 120 VAC. Not available for low flow applications. Not applicable for shallow tanks such as generator base tanks. Headroom required above tank for installation in buildings.
• Most Common Problems: Excessive flow rate. Siphon through pump if missing or incorrect anti-siphon