Piston pumps versus internal gear pumps for modern engines

[johnthekid]

Modern internal combustion engines use internal gear pumps for their main oil. Piston pumps are considered to be the best of the pumps. Can we use piston pumps for modern internal combustion engines instead of internal gear pumps?

 

[Lnewqban]

Yes, you could, but its reciprocating mechanism would increase complexity and cost, number of failure points, and vibrations at high rpm's.

Copied from
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pump#Positive-displacement_pumps
"The gears pump is the simplest form of rotary positive-displacement pump."

 

[jack action]

Piston pumps are considered to be the best of the pumps.

It depends on how you define "the best". From https://ntgdpump.com/gear-pumps-vs-piston-pumps-a-deep-performance-comparison/:

Comparing Gear Pumps and Piston Pumps​

Explore the key differences between gear pumps and piston pumps.

Features	Gear Pumps	Piston Pumps
Pressure Handling	Handles medium pressure well.	Handles high pressure effectively.
Flow Rate	Provides a steady, fixed flow.	Offers adjustable flow rates.
Efficiency	Generally lower efficiency.	Higher efficiency in operation.
Noise Level	Operates quieter than piston pumps.	Typically produces more noise.
Maintenance Needs	Requires less maintenance.	Maintenance can be complex and costly.
Cost	Lower initial cost.	Higher initial investment.
Fluid Compatibility	Handles thick fluids well.	Requires cleaner, less viscous fluids.
Application Suitability	Best for low-pressure applications.	Ideal for high-pressure tasks.

When you compare gear pumps and piston pumps, you find that the best choice depends on what you need for your project. Gear Pumps take over 45% of the global market because they offer simple design and cost savings. Engineers often pick piston pumps when high pressure and efficiency matter most. You should look at pressure, flow rate, budget, and the type of fluid you use.

When to Use a Gear Pump​

Pick a gear pump if you want something simple and cheap. Gear pumps work well in many systems. They are great when you need a steady flow. Here are some times to use a gear pump:

• Hydraulic systems in tractors, forklifts, and excavators
• Car lubrication and glue machines
• Food and chemical jobs
• Metering and dosing jobs that need steady flow
• Moving acids, solvents, alcohols, and pastes

Gear pumps are small and light. This makes them good for cars and planes where space is tight. If your glue machine moves thick glue, a gear pump gives you steady flow. [...]

Tip: Use a gear pump for your glue machine if you want it simple, cheap, and reliable.

When to Use a Piston Pump​

Piston pumps are best for high pressure or when you need control. Use a piston pump in these cases:

• Construction machines like bulldozers and loaders
• Big presses and molding machines
• Mobile systems that need lots of power in small spaces
• Planes and defense systems that need to be exact

Piston pumps give lots of power and work at many pressures. They last a long time if you keep them oiled. If you need careful control, like in a press or robot arm, a piston pump is best.

Note: Piston pumps need oil and clean fluids. They cannot run dry. Always follow care steps to keep your pump working.

 

[johnthekid]

Yes, you could, but its reciprocating mechanism would increase complexity and cost, number of failure points, and vibrations at high rpm's.

Copied from
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pump#Positive-displacement_pumps
"The gears pump is the simplest form of rotary positive-displacement pump."

It depends on how you define "the best". From https://ntgdpump.com/gear-pumps-vs-piston-pumps-a-deep-performance-comparison/:

So piston pumps did much better than gear pumps but using piston pumps for modern engines seem to be a little bit of overkill based on these datasets.