Gear pumps utilize gears, sometimes called rotating cogs, to transfer fluids. The two gears produce a seal and creates suction to the inlet side, fluid is drawn into the pump and then the gears rotate moving the liquid to the outlet port.

There are two basic designs, internal or external. Internal gear pumps are typically designed with a gear within a gear, with both rotating the same way with the outer gear driving the inner (or idler) gear. External gear pumps feature two gears of the same size, rotating opposite of each other pushing the liquid to either side before joining back up at the output.

High viscosity fluids and harsh liquids are common applications, as well as resins, chemicals, oils, ink, solvents, food products and more. The rotating gears evacuate any air in the suction line and force the liquid into the pump, enabling self priming capabilities. Gear pumps are able to handle moderate to high pressure, low to high temperatures and a range of flow rates and high capacities due to their overall design.

In many cases, especially internal models, gear pumps are compact in size and economical. Their steady and consistent flow makes gear pumps an ideal solution for applications where precise volume is important.