ABSTRACT

Pump is a device that moves fluids (liquids or gases), or sometimes slurries, by mechanical action, typically converted from electrical energy into Hydraulic energy. Pumps can be classified into three major groups according to the method they use to move the fluid: direct lift, displacement and gravity pumps. External-gear pumps are rotary, positive displacement machines capable of handling thin and thick fluids in both pumping and metering applications; its makes use pairs of counter-rotating toothed cylinders to move fluid between low-pressure intakes and high-pressure outlets. Fluid is trapped in pockets formed between gear teeth and the pump housing until the rotating gear pairs brings individual elements back into mesh. External gear pumps are commonly used for pumping water, light oils, chemical additives, resins or solvents.

The aim of this project is to design and fabricate an external gear pump that operates at 30 bar and suitable for use in cars and vehicles. This was achievable by carrying out various manufacturing operations such as metal casting for fabricating the pump casing at the foundry shop, metal cutting operation for fabricating the spur gears, shaft and drilling operation for threading and where necessary. Upon completion of the fabrication and assembly of the external gear pump, a test was carried out to determine the efficiency of the pump.