What is the difference between a jet pump and a plunger pump?

The jet pump and the plunger pump are two different types of pumps, with the main differences reflected in the following aspects:

1.Working Principle

• Jet Pump: It is a fluid pressurization device that primarily utilizes high-pressure working fluids (water, air, steam) to generate a high-speed jet through a nozzle, which enters a high-pressure chamber, thereby increasing the pressure to meet operational requirements. It relies entirely on the dynamic motion between fluids. It has strong self-priming capability and can handle gas-liquid mixed fluids.

• Plunger Pump: The motor drives the pump's crankshaft to rotate via large and small pulleys and a narrow belt. The crankshaft then drives the connecting rod and plunger to perform reciprocating motion. When the plunger moves backward, the inlet valve opens, allowing liquid to enter the pump body until the plunger reaches its rearmost position (180° rotation of the crankshaft), completing the suction process. The plunger then begins to move forward, compressing the liquid in the pump's valve chamber, increasing the pressure. As a result, the inlet valve closes, and the discharge valve opens, allowing the liquid to be pushed out by the plunger through the discharge valve. The flow rate can be adjusted by changing the size of the plunger.

2.Structural Differences

• Jet Pump: Simple in structure, primarily generates power through fluid movement, with lower maintenance costs in the long run (no vulnerable parts) and lower sealing requirements.

• Plunger Pump: Mainly generates power through the reciprocating motion of the plunger. Compared to the jet pump, it has higher long-term maintenance costs and extremely high sealing requirements to prevent plunger leakage.

3.Application Scenarios

• Jet Pump: Deep well water extraction, chemical industry (capable of transporting corrosive media,etc).

Plunger Pump: High-pressure cleaning, petroleum industry (mud pump, water injection pump, etc.), water well drilling, etc.

The jet pump primarily relies on hydrodynamic force for operation, making it suitable for simple working conditions and offering corrosion resistance. On the other hand, the plunger pump operates through the reciprocating motion of a plunger, making it ideal for high-pressure, high-efficiency, and stable-flow applications. You can choose the appropriate pump based on different working conditions and requirements. Elephant Machinery offers both plunger pump and jetting pump in our product lineup. Visit our website (www.elephantmudpump.com) to select the product you need—we will be your trusted partner!