Pulsation Absorbers for Reciprocating Pumps

Pulsation absorbers (or surge bottles) are often required in reciprocating-pump installations where pipe vibration, flowmeter errors, and other disadvantages of pulsating flow must be eliminated. Graphs are presented, based on theoretical analyses, for sizing such absorbers for any given installation and desired pulsation amplitude. Experiments with a laboratory unit as well as a few full-scale plant installations confirm the theoretical results. Recommendations also are made for certain important design details.