cryogenic centrifugal pump

A cryogenic centrifugal pump is a type of pump that is designed to transfer  cryogenic  fluids, such as liquefied natural gas (LNG) or liquid nitrogen or liquid oxygen, at extremely low temperatures.

They are used to pump liquefied gases from storages and tankers and subsequently to deliver cryoproduct from tanks to the consumer (for example, filling of cryogenic semi-trailers of tanks)

The working principle of a cryogenic centrifugal pump is similar to that of a conventional centrifugal pump. It consists of a rotating impeller that spins at high speeds to create a centrifugal force, which moves the fluid through the pump and into the discharge pipe.

However, cryogenic centrifugal pumps are specifically designed to handle extremely low temperatures and the challenges associated with them. The materials used in these pumps are carefully selected for their ability to withstand the low temperatures and thermal stresses involved. For example, the impeller and other components are typically made of phosphor bronze CuSn12, which has excellent low-temperature properties. Additionally, cryogenic centrifugal pumps may incorporate specialized features, such as low-friction bearings and seals, to reduce heat generation and prevent the fluid from boiling or freezing.The pump also is equipped with a pre-cooling sensor that inhibits the driver before the temperature of the pump reaches the low desired temperature, further reducing the risk of thermal damage.

Cryogenic pumps are classified as single-staged with one impeller and multi-staged with several impellers however with the same working principle.

Applications of Cryogenic Centrifugal Pumps:

The versatility of cryogenic centrifugal pumps enables their use in diverse industries and applications, such as:

Storage and transportation of cryogens:

These pumps are used for large amounts of liquefied industrial gas (liquid oxygen, liquid argon, liquid nitrogen …) pumping.

Energy and Power Generation: 

Cryogenic centrifugal pumps assist in the liquefaction and storage of natural gas, enabling its efficient transportation and use as a clean energy source.

Basic Oxygen Furnace (BOF) Steelmaking:

Blowing oxygen through molten pig iron lowers the carbon content of the alloy and changes it into low-carbon steel.

Cooling of systems:

This pump is used to circulate a liquid gas in order to transport cooling power from a cold source into and through an application. Examples are superconducting cables and thermal shields in vacuum chambers or other (large) devices.

Medical and Healthcare: 

Cryogenic centrifugal pumps play a crucial role in the storage and transfer of cryogenic fluids used in medical imaging, cryosurgery, and cryopreservation of biological samples.

Aerospace: 

These pumps are utilized in space exploration missions for the storage and transfer of cryogenic propellants, such as liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen.

Research and Development:

Laboratories and research facilities rely on cryogenic centrifugal pumps for various experimental applications involving low-temperature fluids.

Advantages of CRYOFAN™ Cryogenic Centrifugal Pumps

Cryogenic stainless steel bearing life 16,000 hours;

Reliable mechanical or labyrinth seals;

Frequency converter provides the necessary speed range of the pump;

Volutes and impellers are made of copper alloy to guarantee high performance pumps;

High cavitation resistance;

High durability and reliability

Minimal noise

High hydraulic efficiency

Low NPSH required

Long life mechanical seal

Fire resistant hydraulic oil

Choosing the Right Cryogenic Centrifugal Pump

Selecting the appropriate cryogenic centrifugal pump for a specific application requires careful consideration of several factors, including:

Flow Rate: Determine the required flow rate of the cryogenic fluid to ensure the pump can handle the desired volume efficiently.

Pressure Requirements: Evaluate the operating pressure range needed for the application and select a pump that can deliver the required pressure.

Material Compatibility: Consider the compatibility of the pump’s materials with the cryogenic fluid to prevent corrosion or degradation.

Temperature Range: Ensure that the pump is designed to handle the specific low-temperature range of the cryogenic fluid.

Reliability and Maintenance: Assess the pump’s reliability track record and maintenance requirements to minimize operational disruptions.

We are involved in fabricating an array of Centrifugal Transfer Pumps. Manufactured with the latest advanced technologies and high-quality raw materials, our products are recommended for superior quality and high efficiency. Our centrifugal pumps are specially designed to meet the required parameters to ensure a quality of international standard. We are also committed to offering cost-effective prices.

CRYOSTAR centrifugal pumps are suitable for any kind of installation and duty for cryogenic fluids such as liquid oxygen, nitrogen, argon, nitrous oxydes, carbon dioxide, natural gas or ethylene. These pumps are available in different constructions and executions to comply with various applications: « Stationary transfer

« Mobile tanker loading/unloading

« LNG refueling

« LNG bunkering