Real World Pump Testing
|
September 1, 2003 With the introduction of Swiftech® new pump, the MCP600™, it was thought beneficial to comparatively test it against several nominally comparable pumps so that users might be able to better predict their system flow rates. Not all pumps were tested, and for an insight into others the excellent composite graph prepared by pHaestus can be seen here. As contrasted with bench testing, these tests were conducted with the different pumps serially substituted into an actual watercooling system. The flow rate was determined (non-obtrusively) by measuring the pressure drop across the radiator; which had been previously 'calibrated' by measuring its pressure drop vs. flow rate with a differential pressure sensor and a magnetic flow meter; all calibrated of course. Testing was done at ambient temperature, 25°C nominal, using distilled water with Swiftech® HydrX™ coolant additive. The 3/8" ID system consisted of a MCW5000™ rev.2 waterblock, a MCR80™ radiator, a FBK525™ fill-and-bleed kit, and the tubing with bends needed to put the pieces together. Voltage was 12.00vdc for the MCP600™, and the AC line voltage for the others.
The ½" ID system was made up of an MCW5002™ waterblock, a HW Labs BIack Ice Extreme radiator, and a vented (open) reservoir, all with ½" barb connectors; and the bent tubing to connect the components.
The reason for the improved performance is straightforward; the MCP600™ utilizes a 'closed' impeller, which results in superior pressure capability - at the expense of maximum flow against no backpressure. Since all watercooling systems do have the flow resistances of the various components to overcome, closed impeller pumps have an increasing advantage as the system resistance increases (hence its greater improvement with the smaller ID system). Where the MCP600™ is installed in systems having multiple waterblocks or other restrictive components, its advantage will be greater than that shown in these tests. The downside is that while closed impeller pumps are more efficient due to the controlled direction of rotation (and the optimized impeller design), they are more costly than the aquarium variety; and in the case of 12 vdc versions also need the microprocessor control circuitry. Conclusion While initial cost is certainly a factor, the many other features of the MCP600™ such as its fully supported larger diameter ceramic shaft with thrust bearing, aluminum motor case with heavy duty (replaceable) ball bearings, and separate replaceable pump head do more than justify the use of an 'industrial' pump in watercooling systems. Bill Adams Do not reproduce without Swiftech® consent
|
