Rotary gear pumps operate on the principle of positive displacement, using a pair of interlocking gears to move fluid from the inlet to the outlet side of the pump. As the gears rotate, they create expanding cavities on the inlet side that draw in fluid. The gears then mesh together on the outlet side, reducing the volume of the cavities and forcing the fluid out under pressure. The rotation ensures a continuous, steady flow of fluid, making gear pumps efficient and reliable for transferring a variety of liquids. The tight tolerances between the gears and the pump casing help maintain the pressure and prevent backflow, making them suitable for both low and high-viscosity fluids.

In an automatic transmission, the gear that primarily drives both the hydraulic pump and the lubrication pump is typically the torque converter. The torque converter is connected to the engine’s crankshaft, and it spins at the same speed as the engine. As the engine runs, the torque converter uses fluid dynamics to transmit power to the transmission gears and also drives the transmission’s pumps. Specifically, the impeller within the torque converter is what drives the pumps, supplying the hydraulic pressure required to shift gears and providing lubrication to various transmission components. This centralized system ensures synchronized operation and is crucial for the transmission’s performance.

Direct drive and gear reduction are two configurations commonly used in pressure washer pumps, and each has its advantages and drawbacks. A direct drive pump is directly coupled to the motor, resulting in a compact design and higher RPM, which is good for portability and less complex maintenance. However, this design can lead to faster wear and tear on the pump. On the other hand, gear reduction pumps use a gear system to reduce the RPM from the motor to the pump, offering more durability and longer life but at the cost of size and weight. They are generally used in industrial settings where longevity and low maintenance are crucial.

For handling highly viscous fluids, positive displacement pumps like gear pumps and screw pumps are commonly used. Unlike centrifugal pumps, which can lose efficiency with thicker fluids, positive displacement pumps move liquid in discrete, enclosed volumes, maintaining a consistent flow rate regardless of viscosity. Gear pumps, with their interlocking gears, and screw pumps, with their helical rotors, are specifically designed to handle the resistance associated with thick fluids like oils, syrups, and sludges. These pumps are particularly effective in industries like food processing, petrochemical, and waste management, where handling viscous fluids efficiently and reliably is a key requirement.