Centrifugal pumps are classified based on design, application, and construction. Here are the main types of centrifugal pumps:
1. Based on Casing Design
(a) Volute Casing Pump
Most common type, with a spiral-shaped casing that increases flow velocity.
Used in water supply, sewage, and industrial applications.
(b) Diffuser Casing (Turbine) Pump
Uses stationary diffuser vanes around the impeller for smoother flow.
Higher efficiency than volute pumps; common in high-pressure applications.
2. Based on Impeller Design
(a) Open Impeller Pump
No front or back shroud; handles liquids with solids (e.g., sewage, slurry).
Less efficient but resistant to clogging.
(b) Semi-Open Impeller Pump
Has a back shroud but open on one side.
Balances efficiency and solids handling (e.g., wastewater).
(c) Closed Impeller Pump
Fully enclosed impeller for clean liquids (e.g., water, chemicals).
Most efficient but clogs easily with solids.
(d) Vortex Impeller Pump
Creates a whirlpool effect to pass large solids without clogging.
Used in wastewater and sludge pumping.
3. Based on Number of Stages
(a) Single-Stage Pump
One impeller; used for low-to-medium pressure applications.
(b) Multistage Pump
Multiple impellers in series for high-pressure applications (e.g., boiler feed, high-rise water supply).
4. Based on Shaft Orientation
(a) Horizontal Centrifugal Pump
Shaft mounted horizontally; easy maintenance (most common type).
(b) Vertical Centrifugal Pump
Shaft mounted vertically; saves space (e.g., deep well pumps, sump pumps).
5. Based on Application & Specialization
(a) End-Suction Pump
Inlet and outlet at 90°; common in HVAC, irrigation, and industrial uses.
(b) Split-Case Pump
Casing splits horizontally for easy maintenance; used in large water systems.
(c) Self-Priming Pump
Can evacuate air and prime itself without external help (e.g., drainage, sewage).
(d) Submersible Pump
Operates underwater (e.g., borewell, sewage, dredging).
(e) Slurry Pump
Handles abrasive mixtures (e.g., mining, dredging).
(f) API Pump
Complies with API 610 standards for oil, gas, and refinery use.
(g) Cryogenic Pump
Handles extremely cold liquids (e.g., LNG, liquid nitrogen).
(h) Magnetic Drive Pump
Sealless design for hazardous/leak-sensitive fluids (e.g., acids, chemicals).
6. Based on Mounting & Drive Type
Close-Coupled Pump (Motor & pump share a shaft).
Frame-Mounted Pump (Separate motor & pump with coupling).
Comparison Table
| Type | Best For | Not Suitable For |
|---|---|---|
| Closed Impeller | Clean water, high efficiency | Solids, sludge |
| Open Impeller | Slurries, sewage | High-efficiency needs |
| Multistage | High-pressure systems | Low-pressure applications |
| Submersible | Wells, drainage | Dry installation |
| Slurry Pump | Mining, abrasive fluids | Clean liquids |
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