Difference between a Pump and a Compressor
Pump and compressor both are hydraulic machines used to increase the energy of the fluid. But what makes a pump different than a compressor?
Today we will learn about the difference between pump and compressor. Pump and compressor both are hydraulic machines used to increase the energy of the fluid. Both of these devices used in industries and for domestic work. Pump is a device which is used to move the fluid (water, liquid and gases) and increase its elevation. It is mostly used to supply fluid from low elevation to high elevation. A compressor is a device which is a mechanical device just like a pump but it increases the potential energy of fluid by compressing it in a closed container.
The main difference between pump and compressor is that the pump is used to increase kinetic energy of fluid which further increases the elevation or pressure energy of it. It moves the fluid from one place to another. But the compressor is mostly used to increase the potential energy (pressure energy) of fluid by pressuring it into a container. It is used to compress the fluid which increases its density and pressure. There are many other differences which are described below.
Difference between pump and compressor:
1. Pump is used to move the fluid from one place to another at any height. While compressor is used to increase pressure or potential energy of fluid. It increases the density of fluid.
2. Pump increase pressure of fluid by moving it at higher height. Compressor increases the pressure of the fluid by compressing it.
3. There is no change volume from inlet to outlet of pump. On the contrary, there is change in volume from inlet to outlet from the compressor.
4. Pump is used to transport liquid like water, oil etc. Compressor is used to transport gases.
5. Pump may or may not change in pressure of fluid. For compressor, there must be change in pressure of fluid.
6. Pump is mostly used to increase energy of incompressible fluid. Compressor is mostly used to increase energy of compressible fluid.
7. Pump does not have storage. It only sucks the fluid from one side and forced it out from other side.
On the other hand, compressor has storage capacity. It can store gases and deliver it when required.If you need more information on air compressors or want to buy an air compressor, please do contact All Air Compressors today!
Source: Mech 4 Study