DC Powered Pumps

DC powered pumps use direct current from motor or solar power to move fluid in a variety of ways. Motorized pumps operate on 6, 12, 24, or 32 volts of DC power and use hand-operated, electric, pneumatic, or hydraulic motors. Solar-powered DC pumps use photovoltaic (PV) panels with solar cells that produce direct current when exposed to sunlight. Many DC powered pumps use centrifugal force or positive displacement to move fluids. Centrifugal pumps apply centrifugal force to generate velocity, use rotating impellers to increase velocity, and push fluids through an outlet valve. Positive displacement pumps use rollers, gears, or impellers to move fluid into a fixed cavity so that when liquid exists, the vacuum that is created draws in more fluid. Diaphragm pumps are the most commonly used positive displacement pumps. They include a single diaphragm and chamber, as well as suction and discharge check valves to prevent backflow.