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Reprinted from Applied Mechanics Reviews, 48(9) September 1995, pp. B133-134, with permission of ASME International.

9R33. Reciprocating Pump: Theory, Design, and Use, Second Edition. – JE Miller (White Rock Eng, Dallas TX). Krieger, Melbourne, FL. 1995, 467 pp. ISBN 0-89464-599.4. $89.95.

Reviewed by FD Norvelle (Mech. Power Tech. Oklahoma Slate Univ. 499 Cordell South. Stillwater OK 74078).

The author states that this text is in tended to “bring together most aspects of reciprocating pumps, keeping in mind the requirements of designers, manufacturers, and users.” He has been successful in attaining his goal. This reference thoroughly covers reciprocating pumps. It is especially successful in combining theoretical aspects (complete with extensive equations and several good example calculations) with very practical applications examples obviously based on many years of hands-on engineering.

The author’s attention to notation and symbology is commendable. He was very careful in his symbology throughout the text, with precise explanations when introducing new symbols as well as an appendix listing and defining all symbols used in the text and indicating the common US units associated with the term and the conversion to SI units. This attention to detail is further demonstrated in the development of equations that are not readily recognized by engineers who arc not intimate with the field.

Chapter 1 introduces the reader to reciprocating pumps and their variations through an extensive listing of’ associated nomenclature and definitions and comparisons of different pump configurations. Extensive use of good artwork enhances the explanations.

Chapter 2 is a detailed discussion of pump and fluid dynamics. Again, definitions and the liberal use of good artwork makes the discussion easy to follow. The discussion of suction requirements in Chapter 3 is excellent, but some of the graphic work is not as good as most in the text. This is primarily due to the use of actual oscilloscope traces rather than reproductions. The treatment of Net Positive Suction head in this chapter is an excellent example of the experienced engineer inserting practicality into a theoretical discussion.

Pulsation and surge control is the topic of Chapter 4. It deals with the types and causes of pulsations along with the devices that can be used to control those pulsations. Again, excellent definitions and art work enhance a scholarly discussion laced with very practical application tips.

Chapters 5 through 8 are devoted to the design and manufacturing concepts of pumps and pump-associated hardware. The author continues his skillful blending of the totally theoretical concepts with the practicality of one who has “been there.” Engineers and designers in many fields could benefit from this practical approach.

The subject of slurry pumping is aggressively addressed in Chapter 9. Virtually every aspect of pumping high and low density slurries is given detailed attention.