Quick Overview
- 1#1: AFT Fathom - Advanced incompressible flow simulation software for detailed pump sizing, selection, and system analysis in piping networks.
- 2#2: FluidFlow - Comprehensive process piping design tool offering pump sizing, hydraulic calculations, and equipment selection.
- 3#3: PIPE-FLO - User-friendly hydraulic modeling software for pump selection and system design in plumbing and industrial applications.
- 4#4: EPANET - Free open-source tool for simulating water distribution networks with pump scheduling and performance analysis.
- 5#5: OpenFlows WaterGEMS - Integrated water modeling platform with pump sizing, optimization, and scenario analysis for utilities.
- 6#6: ESP-PLUS - HVAC system design software that generates system curves and selects optimal pumps.
- 7#7: H2X - Cloud-based MEP engineering tool for automated pipe sizing and pump selection in building services.
- 8#8: Systemwize - Web-based selection tool for pumps, valves, and heat exchangers in HVAC systems.
- 9#9: Grundfos Product Center - Online pump sizing and selection platform tailored for Grundfos products across applications.
- 10#10: Wilo Selection Assistant - Digital configurator for pump selection with hydraulic calculations and documentation.
Tools were ranked based on key metrics including precision in simulations, user-friendly design, comprehensive feature sets, and value for money, ensuring they cater to professionals across various sectors.
Comparison Table
This comparison table explores key pump sizing software tools, such as AFT Fathom, FluidFlow, PIPE-FLO, EPANET, OpenFlows WaterGEMS, and more, to guide users in selecting the right solution. Readers will discover insights into each tool's features, usability, and industry suitability, aiding informed decisions for pump system design and analysis.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | AFT Fathom Advanced incompressible flow simulation software for detailed pump sizing, selection, and system analysis in piping networks. | enterprise | 9.8/10 | 9.9/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | FluidFlow Comprehensive process piping design tool offering pump sizing, hydraulic calculations, and equipment selection. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 3 | PIPE-FLO User-friendly hydraulic modeling software for pump selection and system design in plumbing and industrial applications. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | EPANET Free open-source tool for simulating water distribution networks with pump scheduling and performance analysis. | other | 7.1/10 | 7.5/10 | 5.9/10 | 9.8/10 |
| 5 | OpenFlows WaterGEMS Integrated water modeling platform with pump sizing, optimization, and scenario analysis for utilities. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 9.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 6 | ESP-PLUS HVAC system design software that generates system curves and selects optimal pumps. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 7 | H2X Cloud-based MEP engineering tool for automated pipe sizing and pump selection in building services. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 8 | Systemwize Web-based selection tool for pumps, valves, and heat exchangers in HVAC systems. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 9 | Grundfos Product Center Online pump sizing and selection platform tailored for Grundfos products across applications. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 9.8/10 |
| 10 | Wilo Selection Assistant Digital configurator for pump selection with hydraulic calculations and documentation. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.0/10 |
Advanced incompressible flow simulation software for detailed pump sizing, selection, and system analysis in piping networks.
Comprehensive process piping design tool offering pump sizing, hydraulic calculations, and equipment selection.
User-friendly hydraulic modeling software for pump selection and system design in plumbing and industrial applications.
Free open-source tool for simulating water distribution networks with pump scheduling and performance analysis.
Integrated water modeling platform with pump sizing, optimization, and scenario analysis for utilities.
HVAC system design software that generates system curves and selects optimal pumps.
Cloud-based MEP engineering tool for automated pipe sizing and pump selection in building services.
Web-based selection tool for pumps, valves, and heat exchangers in HVAC systems.
Online pump sizing and selection platform tailored for Grundfos products across applications.
Digital configurator for pump selection with hydraulic calculations and documentation.
AFT Fathom
enterpriseAdvanced incompressible flow simulation software for detailed pump sizing, selection, and system analysis in piping networks.
Automated pump selection engine that matches system requirements to exact manufacturer performance curves, optimizing NPSH, efficiency, and operating points in seconds.
AFT Fathom from Applied Flow Technology (aft.com) is a premier engineering software for steady-state analysis of incompressible piping and ducting systems, with advanced capabilities for pump sizing, selection, and performance optimization. It simulates complex hydraulic networks including pumps, valves, fittings, and control devices, using extensive manufacturer pump databases for precise curve matching and system balancing. Engineers use it to design efficient systems, predict pressures, flows, and pump requirements while minimizing energy costs and ensuring reliability.
Pros
- Comprehensive pump library with 1,000+ manufacturer curves for automated sizing and selection
- Powerful hydraulic modeling for multi-loop systems, junctions, and transients via AFT Impulse integration
- Graphical interface with drag-and-drop, scenario management, and customizable Excel reports
- High accuracy validated against real-world data, supporting ASME standards
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-experts due to advanced engineering features
- High upfront cost limits accessibility for small firms or individuals
- Primarily Windows-based with limited mobile/cross-platform support
- Resource-intensive for very large models requiring powerful hardware
Best For
Professional mechanical and process engineers in oil & gas, water/wastewater, power, and chemical industries needing precise pump sizing for complex, high-stakes piping systems.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at ~$6,000-$12,000 depending on modules, plus ~20% annual maintenance; volume discounts and academic pricing available.
FluidFlow
enterpriseComprehensive process piping design tool offering pump sizing, hydraulic calculations, and equipment selection.
Automated pump selection engine that matches calculated system requirements to a comprehensive database of real manufacturer pump curves
FluidFlow by Wood PLC is a sophisticated pipe flow simulation software that models steady-state incompressible, compressible, slurry, and multiphase flows in complex piping networks. It supports pump sizing by generating accurate system curves, calculating required head and flow rates, and matching against extensive pump performance data. Widely used in oil & gas, chemicals, power, and water industries, it enables engineers to optimize pump selection and predict system behavior under varying conditions.
Pros
- Exceptionally accurate hydraulic modeling for complex networks with pumps, valves, and fittings
- Vast component library including manufacturer pump curves for automated sizing
- Robust scenario analysis and optimization for energy-efficient designs
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring engineering expertise
- High licensing costs unsuitable for small firms or individuals
- Limited to Windows platform with no native cloud or mobile support
Best For
Process and piping engineers in large industrial firms needing precise pump sizing within intricate pipe systems.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise licensing; perpetual licenses or annual subscriptions typically $5,000–$25,000+ depending on modules, users, and support.
PIPE-FLO
enterpriseUser-friendly hydraulic modeling software for pump selection and system design in plumbing and industrial applications.
Diagram-based interface for intuitive visual construction and real-time analysis of piping networks
PIPE-FLO is a specialized engineering software for steady-state analysis of liquid piping systems, allowing users to model complex pipe networks, calculate flow rates, pressure losses, and accurately size pumps based on system requirements. It integrates pump performance curves, valve settings, and equipment data to optimize system design and operation. Widely used in industries like water/wastewater, chemical processing, and HVAC for reliable hydraulic simulations.
Pros
- Highly accurate hydraulic calculations for pump sizing
- Extensive library of pumps, pipes, and fittings
- Robust reporting and customization options
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-experts
- Primarily Windows-based with limited cloud access
- High upfront and maintenance costs
Best For
Experienced engineers in industrial sectors needing precise pump sizing within detailed piping system models.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at around $5,000-$10,000 depending on modules, plus annual maintenance fees of 15-20%.
EPANET
otherFree open-source tool for simulating water distribution networks with pump scheduling and performance analysis.
Integrated extended-period simulation that captures dynamic pump behavior under fluctuating network demands
EPANET is a free, public-domain software package developed by the U.S. EPA for modeling the hydraulic and water quality behavior of pressurized pipe networks, such as water distribution systems. It supports the simulation of pumps using performance curves (head-flow relationships), allowing users to evaluate pump operations under steady-state or extended-period conditions with varying demands. While not a dedicated pump sizing tool, it enables iterative sizing by modeling network hydraulics and pump interactions.
Pros
- Comprehensive hydraulic simulation for entire networks including pumps
- Free and public domain with no licensing costs
- Supports pump curve inputs and affinity laws for accurate modeling
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-experts due to engineering-focused interface
- No built-in pump databases or automated sizing/selection tools
- Dated GUI lacking modern visualization and automation features
Best For
Civil or environmental engineers analyzing pump performance within complex water distribution systems.
Pricing
Completely free (public domain software from the U.S. EPA).
OpenFlows WaterGEMS
enterpriseIntegrated water modeling platform with pump sizing, optimization, and scenario analysis for utilities.
Transient surge analysis for precise pump sizing under dynamic pressure conditions
OpenFlows WaterGEMS is a robust hydraulic modeling software from Bentley Systems for designing and analyzing water distribution, wastewater, and stormwater networks. It excels in simulating pump operations within full system models, allowing users to size pumps based on hydraulic demands, head curves, and efficiency using steady-state, extended-period, and transient analyses. The tool supports pump optimization, scenario comparisons, and integration with GIS and CAD for comprehensive infrastructure planning.
Pros
- Advanced pump modeling with VFDs, batteries, and multiple curves integrated into network simulations
- Optimization tools for energy-efficient pump sizing and system-wide performance
- Strong interoperability with AutoCAD, MicroStation, and ESRI ArcGIS for seamless workflows
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to comprehensive feature set overwhelming for basic pump sizing
- High cost makes it less accessible for small projects or standalone pump tasks
- Resource-heavy requiring powerful hardware for large models
Best For
Water utility engineers and consulting firms handling complex distribution systems where pump sizing must account for full network dynamics.
Pricing
Subscription-based (Bentley SELECT); starts at ~$5,000/year per user, scales with modules and seats—contact for quote.
ESP-PLUS
specializedHVAC system design software that generates system curves and selects optimal pumps.
Genetic algorithm optimizer for automated minimum-cost pump and system designs
ESP-PLUS is a professional-grade software from ESP, Inc., specialized in hydraulic modeling, pump sizing, and optimization for water distribution, wastewater, and industrial pumping systems. It allows engineers to simulate steady-state and transient flows, generate accurate system curves, and select pumps from extensive manufacturer catalogs. The tool excels in energy audits, cost analysis, and system design optimization using advanced algorithms.
Pros
- Highly accurate system modeling with transient analysis
- Built-in pump libraries from major manufacturers
- Powerful optimization for energy and lifecycle costs
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Expensive licensing and maintenance fees
- Primarily Windows-based with limited mobile support
Best For
Experienced hydraulic engineers and firms handling complex municipal or industrial pumping projects.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at ~$6,000 for base version, up to $15,000+ with modules; annual maintenance ~18%.
H2X
specializedCloud-based MEP engineering tool for automated pipe sizing and pump selection in building services.
Automated pump selection and optimization directly within Revit BIM models using system-wide hydraulic calculations
H2X is a cloud-based engineering design software focused on hydraulic calculations for building services, including automated pump sizing, selection, and system optimization for plumbing, heating, and cooling systems. It performs detailed pressure loss, flow balancing, and pump performance curve analysis while ensuring compliance with international standards. The tool integrates directly with Revit for BIM workflows, enabling efficient design iteration and collaboration.
Pros
- Comprehensive pump sizing integrated with full hydraulic system modeling
- Real-time collaboration and cloud accessibility
- Revit plugin for seamless BIM integration
Cons
- Broader building services focus may overwhelm pure pump sizing users
- Subscription pricing can be high for solo engineers
- Steeper learning curve for non-MEP professionals
Best For
MEP engineers and design firms handling building services projects that require integrated pump sizing within hydraulic and BIM workflows.
Pricing
Subscription-based plans starting at around $120/user/month (annual billing), with tiered options for teams and enterprises.
Systemwize
specializedWeb-based selection tool for pumps, valves, and heat exchangers in HVAC systems.
Seamless integration with pump manufacturer catalogs for real-time, accurate equipment selection and validation
Systemwize is a cloud-based hydronic system design platform that specializes in pump sizing, pipe sizing, and equipment selection for HVAC applications. It performs detailed hydraulic calculations to determine required pump head, flow rates, and selects pumps from an extensive manufacturer database. The software also integrates heat loss analysis, expansion tank sizing, and generates professional reports and BOMs for project documentation.
Pros
- Accurate pump selection using real manufacturer performance data
- Comprehensive hydronic system design including pipes and accessories
- Cloud-based collaboration and detailed reporting tools
Cons
- Primarily focused on hydronic/HVAC systems, less versatile for other pump applications
- Steep learning curve for complex projects
- Subscription model can be costly for occasional users
Best For
HVAC engineers and mechanical contractors designing hydronic heating and cooling systems requiring precise pump sizing.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at $99/month per user, with enterprise plans available.
Grundfos Product Center
specializedOnline pump sizing and selection platform tailored for Grundfos products across applications.
Advanced pump replacement selector that analyzes existing pump data to recommend the best Grundfos upgrade with efficiency gains.
Grundfos Product Center is a web-based pump sizing and selection tool from Grundfos, enabling users to input hydraulic parameters like flow rate, head, NPSH, and efficiency requirements to identify optimal pumps from their catalog. It provides detailed performance curves, sizing calculations, energy optimization suggestions, and access to datasheets, CAD models, and manuals. The platform supports multi-stage sizing, system curve analysis, and pump replacement recommendations, tailored specifically for Grundfos products across applications like water supply, wastewater, and HVAC.
Pros
- Comprehensive Grundfos catalog with precise hydraulic calculations and efficiency optimization
- Rich outputs including interactive curves, 3D models, and exportable documentation
- Free access to real-time product data and global availability checks
Cons
- Limited to Grundfos products, not suitable for multi-vendor sizing
- Web-only interface requires stable internet and can feel dated
- Steep initial learning curve for complex multi-duty point configurations
Best For
Engineers and specifiers in industries relying on Grundfos pumps for water, wastewater, or building services projects.
Pricing
Free to use with optional registration for full features and downloads.
Wilo Selection Assistant
specializedDigital configurator for pump selection with hydraulic calculations and documentation.
Integrated BIM data export for direct use in building information modeling software
The Wilo Selection Assistant is a web-based pump sizing and selection tool from Wilo, accessible at pro.wilo.com, designed for HVAC, water supply, and wastewater professionals. Users input hydraulic data such as flow rate, head, efficiency requirements, and system conditions to receive precise pump recommendations from Wilo's extensive catalog. It provides performance curves, energy calculations, and project documentation features, with support for BIM integration and multi-language options.
Pros
- Comprehensive database of Wilo pumps with detailed specs and curves
- Accurate hydraulic calculations and energy efficiency analysis
- BIM export and project management tools for seamless workflow integration
Cons
- Limited to Wilo-branded products only, no multi-manufacturer support
- Requires free registration and internet access
- Interface can feel overwhelming for simple sizing tasks
Best For
Engineers and contractors focused on Wilo pumps for building services projects needing quick, manufacturer-specific sizing.
Pricing
Free with professional registration; no subscription required.
Conclusion
The reviewed pump sizing software offers a range of strong options, with AFT Fathom leading by excelling in detailed incompressible flow simulation for complex piping networks. FluidFlow and PIPE-FLO follow as compelling alternatives, providing comprehensive process design and user-friendly modeling for specialized and varied needs.
To begin accurate, efficient pump sizing, explore AFT Fathom—the top choice for detailed and reliable system analysis.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
