A centrifugal pump is a simple device consisting of only a few parts that is designed to move liquids. All centrifugal pumps use an impeller and a stationary volute, also referred to as the casing or diffuser, that houses the impeller. Centrifugal pumps use these components to create the necessary force to move the liquid through the pump and out of the discharge outlet. The impeller moves the liquid away from the eye to the vane tips of the impeller, where the high pressure is located, and from the outer edge of the casing. The purpose of the volute is to take the velocity (or kinetic energy) of the liquid and change it to pressure force through the increasing size of its spiral shape. As the size of the volute increases, it acts progressively to reduce the speed and increase the pressure of the liquid.
The process of pumping works by converting mechanical energy into kinetic energy, changing the pressure force. Mechanical force powers the shaft to move the impeller. The impeller then uses vanes to impart kinetic energy or velocity to the liquid inside the casing.
The process of pumping works by converting mechanical energy into kinetic energy, changing the pressure force. Mechanical force powers the shaft to move the impeller. The impeller then uses vanes to impart kinetic energy or velocity to the liquid inside the casing.
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Last Updated: June 16, 2007
Last Updated: June 16, 2007
What are Centrifugal Pumps?
This initial movement of the liquid, called priming, purges the air from the casing. The liquid enters the pump at the eye of the impeller. A partial vacuum, or low pressure point, at the eye of the impeller is created both by the purging of the air and by the liquid leaving the eye of the impeller.
Centrifugal pumps are ideal devices for moving fluids from one place to another. These pumps deliver fluid at a uniform pressure without pulsations or shocks. They are able to handle liquids with high quantities of solids. Since centrifugal pumps have a simple construction, they have a relatively low cost, as well as low maintenance costs. However, centrifugal pumps cannot operate at high heads, are subject to air binding and usually requiring priming. Centrifugal pumps operate efficiently in a narrow range of conditions and do not handle highly viscous fluid well.
Centrifugal pumps are typically used to pump water, but they are also used for moving oil and gas. Centrifugal pumps are the most commonly used pump in the chemical industry. Other industries in which they find use include refineries, nuclear power plants and the hydrocarbon and petrochemical industries. Some pumps are designed especially to handle corrosive liquids and slurries and solids, which are often present in corrosive environments. For private use, typical applications include well systems and low flow irrigation. Specifically designed centrifugal pumps are utilized to move what is considered "trash water" such as sewage.
Centrifugal pumps are ideal devices for moving fluids from one place to another. These pumps deliver fluid at a uniform pressure without pulsations or shocks. They are able to handle liquids with high quantities of solids. Since centrifugal pumps have a simple construction, they have a relatively low cost, as well as low maintenance costs. However, centrifugal pumps cannot operate at high heads, are subject to air binding and usually requiring priming. Centrifugal pumps operate efficiently in a narrow range of conditions and do not handle highly viscous fluid well.
Centrifugal pumps are typically used to pump water, but they are also used for moving oil and gas. Centrifugal pumps are the most commonly used pump in the chemical industry. Other industries in which they find use include refineries, nuclear power plants and the hydrocarbon and petrochemical industries. Some pumps are designed especially to handle corrosive liquids and slurries and solids, which are often present in corrosive environments. For private use, typical applications include well systems and low flow irrigation. Specifically designed centrifugal pumps are utilized to move what is considered "trash water" such as sewage.
