CLASSIFICATION OF PUMPS AND PUMPING ENGINES.
The simplest division of the subject matter relating to this branch of practical mechanics is that which goes back to the very earliest of times; it is thus:
1. Hand Pumps.
2. Power Pumps.
The names indicate the dividing line between the two. The following are more modern divisions, indicating the method of action distinguishing each:
1. Suction or Lift Pumps.
2. Force Pumps.
3. Suction and Force Pumps.
These again may be reciprocating or rotary. The powers actuating pumps are, in the main, as follows:
1. Manual.
2. Animal.
3. Belts.
4. Water.
5. Wind.
6. Steam.
7. Gas.
8. Electricity.
These various motors give distinct names to general classes, thus, electric pumps, belt pumps, elevator pumps, etc. A sub-division of titles indicating differences in construction are these:
1. Vertical Pumps.
2. Horizontal Pumps, or again
1. Single Acting Pumps.
2. Double Acting Pumps.
The list is still further extended, as pumps vary in design to suit their several uses, and are defined as rope, chain, diaphragm, jet, centrifugal, rotary, oscillating, cylinder. It is with the last named with which this volume has principally to deal; cylinder pumps cause the last given classification, as they are either single or double acting.