What is a Pitot Tube Pump? Working Principle & Advantages

A Pitot Tube Pump is a highly specialized, high-pressure centrifugal pump characterized by a unique rotating casing (rotor) and a stationary fluid-collecting tube (pitot tube). Unlike multi-stage pumps, it generates pulsation-free, high-pressure fluid through a single rotating part, making it exceptionally reliable and cost-effective for low-flow, high-head applications.

3D cross-section diagram of a high-pressure pitot tube pump showing the rotating casing and stationary pitot tube.

How Does a Pitot Tube Pump Work?
(The Principle)

The pitot tube pump operates on a brilliantly simple yet highly effective concept. Unlike traditional multi-stage pumps, it consists of only two basic working components: a rotating casing and a stationary pitot tube.

1

Fluid Entry (Suction)

Liquid enters the pump through the inlet manifold and flows directly into the rotating casing (rotor).

2

Centrifugal Pressurization

As the casing spins at high speeds, centrifugal force pushes the fluid against the inner wall, creating a continuous, high-velocity ring of high-pressure liquid.

3

High-Pressure Discharge

The stationary pitot tube, positioned at the periphery, scoops up this fast-moving fluid. The kinetic energy is instantly converted into steady, pulsation-free high pressure as it is directed to the discharge port.

Pitot Tube Pump vs. Traditional Multi-Stage Pumps

Why replace your complex multi-stage or plunger pumps? See how the EHIK Pitot Tube Pump radically simplifies high-pressure fluid transfer, minimizing downtime and maintenance costs.

Feature EHIK Pitot Tube Pump Multi-Stage Centrifugal Pump
Working Components Only 2 basic parts (Rotating Rotor & Stationary Pitot Tube). Dozens of complex parts (Multiple impellers, diffusers, wear rings).
Maintenance & Repair Extremely simple. Can be serviced quickly without disconnecting piping or motor. High downtime. Requires complete teardown, specialized tools, and precise balancing.
Low-Flow Performance Stable. No radial thrust acting on the shaft, ensuring long bearing life even at minimum flow. Poor. Prone to shaft deflection, heavy radial loads, and vibration at low flow rates.
Fluid Delivery Smooth, pulsation-free high pressure in a single stage. Pulsation-free, but requires multiple stages to achieve the same high pressure.
Total Cost of Ownership Lowest in its class. Fewer spare parts needed and minimal maintenance hours. High. Constant replacement of wear rings, mechanical seals, and multiple impellers.

Where Pitot Tube Pumps Redefine Performance

From extreme petrochemical environments to high-precision water treatment, EHIK solutions are engineered for the most demanding high-pressure applications.

EHIK Pitot Tube Pump Application in Carbon Black Industry

Carbon Black Industry

Enabling stable high-pressure feedstock injection and tail gas quenching with maintenance-free, zero-pulsation performance.

EHIK Pitot Tube Pump Application in Pulp and Paper Industry

Pulp & Paper

Delivering constant high-pressure water for critical shower systems and central cleaning, eliminating the radial load issues of centrifugal pumps.

EHIK Pitot Tube Pump Application in Oil, Gas and Petrochemical

Oil & Petrochemical

Providing safe, explosion-proof solutions for high-pressure washdown, chemical dosing, and refinery fluid transfer.

EHIK Pitot Tube Pump Application in Chemical and Fine Chemicals

Chemicals

Precise, steady, and leak-free flow essential for sensitive chemical reactions and high-pressure corrosive fluid processing.

EHIK Pitot Tube Pump Application for Boiler Feed Water

Boiler Feed Water

The gold standard for high-temperature boilers, offering reliable high pressure without the pulsation inherent in plunger pumps.

EHIK Pitot Tube Pump Application in Water Treatment and RO

Water Treatment & RO

Optimizing Reverse Osmosis (RO) systems with high-head efficiency and minimal downtime for desalination and wastewater treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum pressure and flow rate of a pitot tube pump?
EHIK Pitot tube pumps are engineered for high-pressure, low-to-medium flow applications. Our systems can achieve discharge pressures up to 11 MPa (1,600 PSI) with flow rates ranging from 1 to 100 m³/h. For specific requirements, our engineering team can provide customized hydraulic performance curves.
Are EHIK pumps compatible as a Roto-Jet® alternative?
Yes. EHIK pitot tube pumps are designed as premium, drop-in alternatives to Trillium Roto-Jet® pumps. Our units match the standard footprint and flange dimensions, allowing for seamless replacement without modifying your existing piping. Additionally, we provide compatible high-quality spare parts for existing Rotary installations.
How often does a pitot tube pump require maintenance?
Due to the simple design with only two basic working components and no radial thrust, maintenance intervals are significantly longer than multi-stage pumps. Typically, a routine inspection of seals and bearings is recommended every 8,000 to 12,000 operating hours, depending on the fluid properties and environment.
Does the pump handle corrosive or high-temperature fluids?
Absolutely. We offer various metallurgical options (such as 316 Stainless Steel, Duplex Steel, or Titanium) and specialized mechanical seal flushing plans (API Plans) to handle corrosive chemicals or high-temperature boiler feed water up to 200°C.
Why is the flow described as "pulsation-free"?
Unlike plunger pumps that use reciprocating motion, the pitot tube pump uses centrifugal force within a smooth rotating casing. This ensures a continuous, steady stream of fluid, eliminating the need for pulsation dampeners and protecting your downstream instrumentation.
What information is needed for a technical selection and quote?
To ensure the most efficient performance, we require: Flow rate, Discharge pressure, Liquid properties (Viscosity, Temp, SG), and Available NPSH. Our engineers use these to calculate the optimal pitot tube size and rotor speed for your specific process.
Can the pump handle fluids containing solids?
While pitot tube pumps are primarily designed for clear liquids, they can handle trace amounts of fine particles. However, to ensure long-term reliability and prevent clogging of the pitot tube orifice, we strongly recommend installing a 50 to 100 mesh suction strainer.
Does EHIK support VFD (Variable Frequency Drive) operation?
Absolutely. EHIK pumps are ideal for VFD control. By adjusting the RPM, you can precisely control the discharge pressure to match varying system requirements, which significantly reduces energy consumption and mechanical wear during part-load operation.
What is the typical lead time for spare parts and systems?
We maintain a massive inventory of standard pitot tubes, rotors, and seals ready for 24-hour dispatch. For complete customized pump skids, the lead time is typically 6-10 weeks, depending on specific explosion-proof or material requirements.

Ready to Optimize Your High-Pressure Operations?

Don't settle for the high maintenance costs and complexity of traditional pumps. Our engineering team is ready to design a custom Pitot Tube Pump solution tailored to your specific application.

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