Flow
Minimum, normal and maximum flow, not just one rated point.
Selection Guide
Choosing a Pump for Low Flow and High Head
Small flows at high pressure are a difficult duty. Several pump types can do it, each with its own limits. Use this guide to shortlist the right type before you ask for a quotation.
Step 1
Define the Duty First.
The pump type follows from the duty. Collect these points before comparing pumps.
Pressure or head
The required discharge pressure or head, and the inlet pressure.
Liquid
Composition, temperature, viscosity, density, solids and any gas.
Inlet conditions
NPSHa, tank level or feed pressure, and the suction pipework.
Operation
Continuous or batch, start/stop, control method and running hours.
Step 2
Compare the Pump Types.
Each type has a range where it works well and limits to watch.
Swipe or use the arrows to view all columns.
| Pump type | Good fit | Watch for |
|---|---|---|
| Pitot tube pump | Low flow at high head in one stage; continuous, low-pulsation delivery; wear-resistant pickup tubes for liquids with particles | Flows above about 70–100 m³/h (approx. 308–440 US gpm); liquids at 95 mPa·s (95 cP) or higher; accurate metering |
| Multistage centrifugal pump | Higher flows at high head | Efficiency and stability at very low flow; wear of stages and clearances |
| High-speed centrifugal pump | High head from one stage with a gearbox raising the speed | Gearbox and high-speed parts to maintain |
| Regenerative turbine pump | Very low flow at moderate head | Tight clearances that wear with particles; lower head than the other types here |
| Plunger pump | Very high pressure; accurate metering; viscous liquids | Pulsation; valve, plunger and packing wear |
| Screw pump | Viscous liquids and gentle, low-shear pumping | Elastomer stators wear with abrasives and need dry-running protection. |
Step 3
Where a Pitot Tube Pump Fits.
EHIK’s standard range. Custom values need an engineering review.
Flow
0.05–70 m³/h (approx. 0.22–308 US gpm) standard; up to 100 m³/h (approx. 440 US gpm) after engineering review.
Head
Up to 1,050 m (3,445 ft) standard; up to 1,500 m (approx. 4,921 ft) single-stage after engineering review.
Liquid
Up to 260 °C (500 °F) and below 95 mPa·s (95 cP).
Speed and series
2,900–6,300 rpm, depending on model and drive. Eight series from 180 to 450.
Step 4
Compare on Real Data.
Motor ratings alone can mislead. Compare the options on what they will do at your duty.
Energy
Measured input power, volume pumped and running hours at the same duty.
Maintenance
Which parts wear, how often, and what each repair costs in parts and downtime.
Installation
Piping connections, foundation, pulsation control and space for maintenance.
Not Sure Which Pump Fits?
Send the Duty. We Will Tell You.
Share the liquid, flow and pressure. If a pitot tube pump is not the right type for your duty, we will say so.
Get Selection HelpSelection & Performance Curves
A proposed pump matched to the required liquid duty.
Outline Drawings
Equipment dimensions for checking the layout and connections.
Technical Support
Help with operating conditions, the proposed pump and supply scope.