A triplex pump is a positive displacement pump used in number of high-pressure applications. Three plungers configure this positive-displacement reciprocating pump. The modern mud pump or slush pump, built 60 years ago, has since evolved into many sizes and configurations. Triplex pumps have replaced two-plunger double mud pumps, (these are only still used in developing countries). Triplex pumps with three cylinders are used in applications that require continuous pumping. Using a mud pump with its three-cylinder design is one of the cost efficient ways to ensure the durability and extra long life of your high-pressure system.

Basic Design and Action. Triplex pumps have basic, simple design. The basic design or construction of triplex pumps is similar to that of three-cylinder internal combustion engine. The main body of the triplex mud pump includes two parts- power end and fluid end. A filter is set at the discharge end of the mud pump. The liquid end of the pump is resistant to corrosion. It has a pressure regulating valve and a safety value for protection and controlling pressure.

The load exerted on the crankshaft by the piston is transmitted to the main bearings of crankshaft, which are positioned in the frame of the pump. The piston located in the middle of the pump exerts seven times more pressure than the two adjacent pistons. This results in the bending or flexing of the crankshaft. The reciprocating nature of the single acting plungers in the cylinder results in smoother flow. High-pressure results in significant flex in the crankshaft and this result in smooth, low pulsation flow. The three pistons or plungers are driven by a single prime mover or an electric motor. The volume and pressure achieved by the pump depends upon the RPM of the prime mover. The increased RPM of the electric motor results in high pressure and volume output.

Applications of Triplex Pumps. Triplex pumps are high-pressure systems known for their dependability and durability. Due to their high-pressurized systems, they are used in high-pressure applications. They are most commonly used in drilling and well service operations. They can handle wide range of fluid types, such as abrasive fluids, corrosive fluids and slurries. It is also used in low-pressure applications, like a submersible liquid pump and an end-suction centrifugal pump. These three plunger pumps are used in a variety of consistent pressure processes like pressure cleaning, commercial car washing, reverse osmosis and handling of oils. Low maintenance cost and high performance make triplex pumps a popular choice in a number of industrial usages for oil extraction.

Industrial triplex pumps are used in public places that require a continuous water pressure with variable flow rates. This feature makes them suitable to be used in hotels, schools, hospitals and office buildings. They can be used in combination with other pumps for drainage of wastewater storage pits. The water supply for irrigation in rural areas can also be boosted with the help of triplex pumps.

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