Downton pump

The Downton pump is type of positive displacement pump patented in 1825 by Jonathan Downton. It was typically used on ships.[1]

The design of the Downton pump sought to create a more constant flow of pumped liquid, and a steadier load-state on the pump, by increasing the number of buckets operating in the pump. These buckets were actuated by means of a rotating crankshaft and connecting rods, which caused the buckets to reciprocate up and down, with each feeding the next with liquid.[2] Hebert (1836) contains a description and cut-away illustration of an early Downton Pump.[3]

Power source

The power source for the pump could be either mechanical or human, with human powered Downton pumps being operated by means of a capstan.

References

  1. ↑ Catalogue Of The Mechanical Engineering Collection In The Science Division Of The Victoria And Albert Museum, South Kensington, Various Authors. ISBN 1-4067-8053-7, ISBN 978-1-4067-8053-6
  2. ↑ Description and photographs of the Downton pump
  3. ↑ Hebert, Luke (1836). The Engineer's and Mechanic's Encyclopædia, v.2. London: Thomas Kelly. p. 357.


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