Cooling oil pump

Types of cooling oil pumps

A cooling oil pump is used in the cooling system to maintain optimal operating temperature and prevent overheating. It is a critical component in engines with high power output and in heavy machinery like construction equipment. The pump circulates oil to engine parts where heat is generated to dissipate heat and lower the temperature of the engine block.

The cooling oil pump can be categorized based on design:

• Gear cooling oil pump

  As the name suggests, this pump uses two gears to create fluid movement. When the gears rotate, they trap the oil between them and the pump housing and move it from the inlet to the outlet. This action causes the space between the gears and the housing to contract, creating a vacuum that draws oil into the pump. The teeth of the gears may be straight or helical, but they work the same way. The helical teeth offer a smoother operation and lower noise levels.

• Vane cooling oil pump

  A vane cooling oil pump uses a rotor with sliding vanes located in a slotted stator. As the rotor turns, the vanes move in and out of the slots because of the centrifugal force. This action creates varying volumes in the pump chambers, leading to the flow of oil into and out of the pump. The vane pump can have an external or internal rotor.

• Lobe cooling oil pump

  This pump is similar to the vane pump, but it uses two lobes to move the fluid. The two lobes rotate in opposite directions. As the lobes rotate, they create a vacuum in the inlet chamber, causing oil to be drawn into the pump. Then, the mechanical movement of the lobes reduces the volume of the fluid in the outlet chamber, pushing the oil out of the pump.

• Peristaltic cooling oil pump

  The peristaltic pump is not very common in cooling systems. It contains a tube with a lumen and rotors with rolling or pinch elements. As the rotor turns, the elements roll or pinch on the tube, causing the lumen to contract. This action creates pressure and a vacuum in the tube, leading to the flow of oil. The peristaltic cooling oil pump is mostly used in applications that require precise flow rates.

• Electric oil pump

  The electric oil pump uses electric power to move oil through the cooling system. It is mostly used in cars with stop-start engines and hybrid electric vehicles. The electric motor powers the pump to maintain oil circulation and the desired oil temperature, especially during start-up.

Specifications and maintenance of cooling oil pumps

The specifications of any given cooling oil pump depend on its design, construction, and application. Here are some specifications that buyers should expect to see:

• Flow rate

  The flow rate is the volume of oil the pump can move every minute. The flow rate needs to be proportional to the cooling system's size and oil volume. Otherwise, it will either overcool or undercool the system. Pumps with low flow rates are used in applications with quick oil changes, while high-flow pumps are preferred in large cooling systems.

• Pressure rating

  The pressure rating is the maximum pressure the pump can handle. It ensures the oil cooling system is maintained at the required pressure. Pressure rating is important for the safety and reliability of the pump. Users should select a pump with a pressure rating that fits the cooling system's design.

• Temperature range

  Every cooling oil pump has a temperature range within which it can function effectively. The temperature range ensures the pump's durability and reliability. Also, it affects the oil's viscosity and flow properties. The selected cooling oil pump should have a temperature range that matches the environmental conditions and the oil's characteristics.

• Pump material

  Cooling oil pumps are made from different materials. The material of the pump impacts its compatibility, corrosion resistance, and chemical stability. For instance, aluminum and cast iron are commonly used materials for cooling oil pumps in automotive applications. The selected pump material should be in accordance with the cooling oil's properties and the application environment.

• Motor Power

  Apart from the flow rate and pressure rating, the motor power of the pump is also specified. The motor power should be in line with the requirements of the cooling system. It should also be compatible with the power supply available in the system.

It is important to maintain cooling oil pumps so that they can serve their purpose effectively. Here are some maintenance tips:

• Regular inspection: Like every other pump, it is important to inspect the cooling oil pump regularly. The inspection will help users identify leaks, damages, and abnormal noises. When any abnormality is detected, prompt action should be taken to fix the problem.
• Seal and gasket replacement: The seals and gaskets of the cooling oil pump should be inspected periodically. This is because they can wear out over time. When they are damaged, they can cause oil leaks. Users should replace the seals and gaskets immediately to prevent oil leaks and damage to the pump.
• Filter replacement: Some cooling oil pumps come with filters that prevent the entry of impurities into the pump. These impurities can damage the pump and affect its performance. Therefore, users should check the filter regularly and replace it when necessary.
• Lubrication: The bearings and moving parts of the pump should be lubricated regularly. This will help to minimize friction and wear. When the moving parts are not lubricated, it can lead to damage to the pump, which can affect its performance.
• Fluid change: The fluid in the pump should be changed periodically. This is because the fluid can become contaminated or degraded over time. Changing the fluid will prevent impurities from entering the pump and maintain its performance.

How to Choose Cooling Oil Pump

When looking for a cooling oil pump, be sure to consider these factors to ensure that the needs of the intended clients are met.

• The capacity of the pump:

  Buyers should consider the capacity of the pump, which refers to the flow rate and pressure it can generate. The pump's capacity should be sufficient for the cooling system's size and requirements. For instance, larger engines need more powerful pumps to ensure adequate oil circulation and cooling.

• The design and construction of the cooling oil pump:

  Buyers should consider the materials used to construct the oil pump. The materials should be durable and corrosion-resistant. Common materials include aluminum, cast iron, and steel. Additionally, they should consider the design of the pump. There are several designs and each one is suitable for different applications. For example, rotary and gear cooling oil pumps are the most common pump designs.

• The type of vehicle and engine:

  Different vehicles have different types of engines. Buyers should consider the type of engine fueled by the vehicle. For instance, petrol and diesel engines have different requirements. Diesel engines generate more heat and need more powerful cooling oil pumps compared to petrol engines.

• Features of the cooling oil pump:

  Buyers should consider the features of the cooling oil pump. For instance, some pumps have built-in pressure regulators that ensure the oil flows at a constant pressure. Additionally, they should look for cooling oil pumps with adjustable flow rates since they allow users to set the pump to their preferred flow rate.

• Consider the installation requirements:

  Buyers should consider how easy it will be to install the cooling oil pump. They should get pumps that are easy to install and come with installation instructions. Additionally, they should get pumps that are compatible with the fittings, oil lines, and mounting points of the cooling system.

• Maintenance requirements:

  Buyers should consider the maintenance requirements of the cooling oil pump they intend to purchase. For instance, they should get cooling oil pumps that require little maintenance. Additionally, they should get cooling oil pumps that are easy to disassemble to make the maintenance process easy.

How to DIY and replace of cooling oil pump

Before attempting to replace a cooling oil pump, it is important to get the manufacturer's manual for the specific vehicle being worked on. This will give the exact steps to follow. Replacing a cooling oil pump can be a DIY-friendly task if the right tools and skills are available. The tools required for this task include a ratchet set, screwdrivers, a torque wrench, and a gasket scraper. It is also important to have the replacement oil pump kit ready. This should be the exact fit for the vehicle in question.

To replace the cooling oil pump, first, locate it. It is mostly found in the engine bay area. Drain the engine oil and remove the oil filter. Next, remove the engine cover and locate the timing belt or chain. Release the tensioner and remove the belt or chain. This will give access to the oil pump.

Now, remove the bolts holding the pump in place and carefully remove it. Take care not to damage the surrounding parts. Clean the area and install the new pump. Follow the steps in reverse and ensure everything is tightly fitted. Do not skip any steps. It is advisable to use a torque wrench to tighten bolts to the recommended levels.

After replacing the pump, fill the engine with oil and start it up. Let it run for a few minutes and check for any leaks. Ensure the levels are okay.

Q and A

Q1. Can a cooling oil pump be used in a cooling system for high-viscosity oils?

A1. Yes, a cooling oil pump is beneficial in cooling systems for cooling the oil. The pump can be selected and designed to handle high-viscosity oils.

Q2. What is the maintenance requirement for a cooling oil pump?

A2. The maintenance requirements for a cooling oil pump are infrequent. However, it requires regular checkups and inspections. The user should also follow the manufacturer's guidelines.

Q3. Can a cooling oil pump be retrofitted into existing systems?

A3. Yes, a cooling oil pump can be retrofitted into existing systems. The cooling oil pump can be designed to fit into various installations. It also has applications in many existing systems.

Q4. Are there cooling oil pumps with energy-saving features?

A4. Yes, there are cooling oil pumps with energy-saving features. The pumps are designed with efficient motors and other energy-saving components.

Q5. Does the cooling oil pump require a power supply?

A5. Yes, the cooling oil pump requires a power supply. The type of power supply required by the cooling oil pump will depend on the model.