When it comes to the world of oil pumps, understanding the technical specifications is crucial for both suppliers and customers. As a supplier of 20mm diameter oil pumps, I often receive inquiries about the discharge head of these pumps. In this blog post, I'll delve into what discharge head means, how it applies to our 20mm diameter oil pumps, and why it matters in various applications.
What is Discharge Head?
Discharge head is a fundamental concept in the field of fluid mechanics, especially when dealing with pumps. It refers to the total energy per unit weight of the fluid at the pump's discharge port. In simpler terms, it is the height to which a pump can lift a fluid above the pump's centerline, taking into account factors such as pressure, velocity, and elevation.
Mathematically, the discharge head (H) can be expressed as the sum of three components:
[ H = H_p + H_v + H_z ]
where ( H_p ) is the pressure head, ( H_v ) is the velocity head, and ( H_z ) is the elevation head.
- Pressure Head (( H_p )): This is the pressure energy of the fluid at the discharge port, measured in meters of fluid column. It is calculated by dividing the pressure (P) by the product of the fluid's density (( \rho )) and the acceleration due to gravity (g):
[ H_p = \frac{P}{\rho g} ] - Velocity Head (( H_v )): The velocity head represents the kinetic energy of the fluid. It is determined by the square of the fluid's velocity (v) at the discharge port, divided by twice the acceleration due to gravity:
[ H_v = \frac{v^2}{2g} ] - Elevation Head (( H_z )): The elevation head is the vertical distance between the pump's centerline and the point of discharge. It accounts for the potential energy of the fluid due to its height above the pump.
Discharge Head of a 20mm Diameter Oil Pump
For our 20mm diameter oil pumps, the discharge head can vary depending on several factors, including the pump's design, operating conditions, and the properties of the oil being pumped.
Pump Design
The internal design of the pump, such as the impeller shape, number of stages, and the efficiency of the pumping mechanism, plays a significant role in determining the discharge head. A well-designed impeller can increase the fluid's velocity and pressure, resulting in a higher discharge head. Multi-stage pumps, which consist of multiple impellers in series, can achieve even greater discharge heads compared to single-stage pumps.
Operating Conditions
The speed at which the pump operates, also known as the rotational speed, affects the discharge head. Generally, a higher rotational speed leads to a higher discharge head, as it increases the fluid's velocity and pressure. However, there are limits to how fast a pump can operate, as excessive speed can cause cavitation, a phenomenon where vapor bubbles form in the fluid due to low pressure, leading to reduced pump efficiency and potential damage.
The viscosity of the oil being pumped is another important factor. Higher viscosity oils require more energy to pump, which can reduce the pump's discharge head. Our 20mm diameter oil pumps are designed to handle a wide range of oil viscosities, but it's essential to select the appropriate pump for the specific application to ensure optimal performance.
Oil Properties
The density and temperature of the oil can also impact the discharge head. Higher density oils require more energy to lift, resulting in a lower discharge head. Additionally, the temperature of the oil affects its viscosity, with higher temperatures generally reducing viscosity. Therefore, operating the pump at the recommended temperature range can help maintain the desired discharge head.
Importance of Discharge Head in Applications
The discharge head of a 20mm diameter oil pump is a critical parameter in various applications, including lubrication systems, hydraulic systems, and fuel transfer.
Lubrication Systems
In lubrication systems, the pump is responsible for delivering oil to the moving parts of machinery to reduce friction and wear. A sufficient discharge head is necessary to ensure that the oil reaches all the required lubrication points, even in systems with complex piping and multiple outlets. If the discharge head is too low, the oil may not reach some parts of the machinery, leading to inadequate lubrication and potential damage.
Hydraulic Systems
Hydraulic systems rely on the pressure generated by the pump to operate cylinders, motors, and other hydraulic components. The discharge head determines the maximum pressure that the pump can generate, which is crucial for the proper functioning of the hydraulic system. Insufficient discharge head can result in reduced system performance, slower operation, and even system failure.
Fuel Transfer
In fuel transfer applications, the pump must be able to lift the fuel from the storage tank to the engine or other equipment. The discharge head ensures that the fuel is delivered at the required pressure and flow rate, ensuring efficient combustion and reliable operation of the equipment.
Our Product Range
As a supplier of 20mm diameter oil pumps, we offer a wide range of products to meet the diverse needs of our customers. Our pumps are designed and manufactured to the highest standards, ensuring reliable performance and long service life.


- High Pressure Axial Oil Pump: This pump is specifically designed for applications that require high pressure and high flow rates. It features an axial design, which allows for efficient pumping of oil with minimal energy consumption.
- Micro High Temperature Oil Pump: Ideal for applications where space is limited and high temperatures are involved, this micro pump can handle oil temperatures up to [temperature] degrees Celsius. It is suitable for use in small engines, industrial equipment, and other high-temperature environments.
- High Temperature Oil Pump: Our high-temperature oil pump is designed to handle extreme temperatures, making it suitable for applications such as hot oil circulation systems, thermal oil heaters, and other high-temperature processes. It can operate continuously at temperatures up to [temperature] degrees Celsius, ensuring reliable performance in demanding environments.
Contact Us for Procurement
If you are in the market for a 20mm diameter oil pump or have any questions about discharge head or our product range, we encourage you to contact us. Our team of experts is available to provide you with detailed information, technical support, and assistance in selecting the right pump for your specific application. We look forward to discussing your requirements and helping you find the best solution for your needs.
References
- Crane, D. S. (1988). Flow of Fluids Through Valves, Fittings, and Pipe. Technical Paper No. 410M. Crane Co.
- Karassik, I. J., Messina, J. P., Cooper, P. T., & Heald, C. C. (2008). Pump Handbook. McGraw-Hill.
- Streeter, V. L., & Wylie, E. B. (1981). Fluid Mechanics. McGraw-Hill.

