What type of pumps are commonly used as backup units in boiler rooms during electrical failures?

Reciprocating pumps are often favored as backup units in boiler rooms during electrical failures due to their ability to operate effectively under a wide range of conditions and their reliance on mechanical movement rather than electrical power. They can generate high pressures and maintain a consistent flow rate, making them suitable for applications where water must be supplied to maintain boiler operations, even in emergencies.

These pumps operate using a back-and-forth motion, which allows them to move liquids through a system without requiring electrical power, thus ensuring that essential functions can continue during outages. Their design can be adapted to handle various fluid types, making them versatile assets in boiler rooms where reliability is critical.

In contrast, pneumatic pumps typically rely on compressed air for operation, which may not always be available during electrical failures. Centrifugal pumps, while commonly used in many industrial applications, often require electricity to function and may not perform well at low flow rates or when handling viscous fluids. Screw pumps, although efficient in specific applications, are less common as backup units for this purpose because they are not as readily available or adaptable for emergency scenarios as reciprocating pumps.