In dosing pump systems, pressure pulsation is one of the most common challenges. The reciprocating motion of diaphragm and plunger pumps often causes unstable flow, pressure spikes, water hammer, and vibration. A Pulsation Dampener is the most effective solution to stabilize pressure and protect system components.
However, to maximize performance, it is critical to choose the right pulsation dampener. This article outlines the key considerations for selecting a pulsation dampener that matches your dosing pump system.
The dampener’s internal volume must be sized correctly to absorb the pump’s stroke volume.
Too small → insufficient damping effect, pulsation remains high.
Too large → unnecessary cost and possible overcompensation.
✅ Rule of thumb: The dampener capacity should be proportional to the pump displacement and the degree of pulsation reduction required.
Most gas-charged dampeners require pre-charging with nitrogen. The pre-charge pressure is typically set at 60–80% of the system’s working pressure.
If the pre-charge is too low, the dampener will collapse and lose efficiency.
If it is too high, liquid will not enter the chamber, and pulsation suppression will be ineffective.
Regularly check and adjust pre-charge pressure to maintain optimal performance.
Since the dampener is in direct contact with process fluids, material selection is critical.
Elastomers: EPDM, Viton (FKM), or PTFE for chemical resistance.
Plastics: PVDF, PP for corrosive chemicals.
Metals: SS316L, Hastelloy for high-pressure or aggressive media.
Always verify compatibility with the pumped fluid’s pH, temperature, and chemical composition to avoid swelling, cracking, or leaks.
The dampener must be rated for the maximum operating pressure plus any possible surge or water hammer.
For dosing pumps in chemical plants, working pressures range from 6 bar to 40 bar.
For oil & gas or high-pressure injection, ratings above 100 bar may be required.
A safety margin of 25% or more is generally recommended.
The effectiveness of a pulsation dampener depends heavily on where it is installed.
Discharge side (most common): placed immediately after the pump outlet to absorb pulsations before they propagate downstream.
Suction side (optional): in some cases, dampeners are also installed at the inlet to prevent cavitation and suction pressure fluctuations.
Keep the distance between the pump and dampener as short as possible.
In industries such as pharmaceuticals, food, and water treatment, cleaning and maintenance are essential.
Choose dampeners with replaceable bladders or diaphragms for easy service.
Ensure the design avoids dead zones where chemicals or contaminants could accumulate.
A CIP-friendly (Clean-in-Place) design is often preferred in hygienic applications.
Finally, consider the overall process:
Variable operating pressures: Dampener efficiency may vary; adjustable pre-charge or adaptive designs may be needed.
High-viscosity liquids: Larger volume dampeners or different diaphragm materials may be required.
Temperature fluctuations: Ensure the elastomer and housing materials can handle the full temperature range.
Choosing the right Pulsation Dampener is not just about installing a standard accessory—it is about ensuring long-term reliability, dosing accuracy, and system protection.
When selecting a dampener, always consider:
Volume and size
Pre-charge pressure
Material compatibility
Pressure rating
Installation location
Maintenance requirements
Process conditions
For high-quality Pulsation Dampeners for dosing pumps, explore our solutions at DosingPumpParts.com. Our experts can help you select the best dampener for your specific application.
