How a Magnetic Drive Pump

Works
By Vee Enne; Updated August 07, 2017
A magnetic drive pump is a pump that is powered through the use of the science of
magnetism rather than electricity from an outside source. Magnetic drive pumps are
energy efficient and require no seals or lubricants for operation. Magnetic drive pumps
circulate a variety of fluids including acids, water and oils. Because there is no
mechanical seal on a magnetic drive pump, the chance of hazardous chemical leaks or
the pump overheating due to an obstruction is eliminated.

The general characteristics of a magnetic drive pump include a rotating impeller located
in an enclosed housing powered by a rotating magnetic field produced by individual
magnets. The rotation of the impeller produces a force that drives liquid through and
outside of the pump’s housing. The main purpose of the pump is to maintain energy and
motion in a fluid. This helps keep water or other liquids from going stagnant in a pond or
tank.

In a magnetic drive pump, the impeller and motor have magnets attached to them.
Permanent magnets are attached to the pump’s drive assembly. The drive magnet, the
magnet responsible for driving the inner rotor, is attached on a second shaft operated
by the motor. When the motor turns on, it spins its magnet. The magnetic force from the
motor’s magnet causes the magnet on the impeller to spin and rotate the impeller.

A magnetic drive pump is a centrifugal pump, meaning that the liquid pumped through
the system exits at a different point than where it’s sucked into the pump. When liquid
enters the pump, it is thrown off the impeller and into a discharge chamber. The rotation
of the impeller causes the liquid to increase in energy, increasing the amount of
pressure in which the liquid discharges from the pump. This increase in pressure is
what keeps the fluid moving.