ABSTRACT
The use of crude mechanical devices for raising small quantities of water dates back into antiquity. Indeed, it was not until the introduction o f the steam engine at the beginning of the last century that there became available a prime mover of sufficient power for large-scale energy conversion. Entirely new and improved methods o f pumping resulted, to be followed later by a further definite stage of advancement when the steam engine was superseded by the more efficient high-speed diesel engine and electric motor. Pump design has thus kept pace with the increasing demands of civilised society for the transportation of liquids in both large and small quantities. From small beginnings the manufacture of pumping equipment has grown into an extensive, specialised, and highly competitive industry.
