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centrifugal pump basics

Centrifugal Pump Basics: Working Principle, Components, and Applications

Centrifugal pumps are the most common type of dynamic pump, widely used in industries like water supply, oil & gas, chemicals, and HVAC. They work by converting rotational energy (from a motor) into kinetic energy in the fluid, which is then converted into pressure energy.


1. Working Principle

  • Impeller Rotation: A rotating impeller transfers energy to the fluid, creating centrifugal force.

  • Fluid Movement: Liquid enters axially at the eye of the impeller and is thrown radially outward.

  • Pressure Build-Up: The volute casing or diffuser converts kinetic energy into pressure.

Key Formula:

Head (H)=v22g(where v=velocity, g=gravity)Head (H)=2gv2(where v=velocity, g=gravity)


2. Main Components

ComponentFunction
ImpellerRotating blades that accelerate fluid (open, semi-open, or closed).
Casing (Volute/Diffuser)Converts kinetic energy to pressure.
ShaftTransmits motor torque to the impeller.
BearingsSupport the shaft and reduce friction.
Seals (Mechanical/Gland)Prevent leakage (packing or mechanical seals).
CouplingConnects pump to motor.

3. Types of Centrifugal Pumps

TypeDescriptionApplication
Single-StageOne impellerLow-to-medium pressure (water supply)
Multi-StageMultiple impellers in seriesHigh-pressure (boiler feed, oil pipelines)
Axial Split-CaseHorizontal split for easy maintenanceLarge water systems
End-SuctionSimple, compact designHVAC, industrial fluids
Self-PrimingCan evacuate air from suction lineDrainage, sewage

4. Performance Characteristics

A. Pump Curve (H-Q Curve)

  • Shows Head (H) vs. Flow Rate (Q).

  • Head decreases as flow increases.

  • Best Efficiency Point (BEP) = Optimal performance.

B. Power & Efficiency

  • Brake Horsepower (BHP) = Power required by pump.

  • Efficiency = (Hydraulic Power / Input Power) × 100%.

C. Affinity Laws

  • Flow (Q) ∝ Speed (N)

  • Head (H) ∝ N²

  • Power (P) ∝ N³


5. Common Problems & Solutions

ProblemCauseSolution
CavitationLow NPSH, high vapor pressureIncrease suction pressure, reduce speed
OverheatingLow flow, dry runningEnsure proper flow, check seals
VibrationMisalignment, impeller imbalanceAlign pump-motor, balance impeller
Low FlowClogged impeller, closed valveClean impeller, check valves
Seal LeakageWorn seal, improper installationReplace seal, realign

6. Applications

✔ Water Supply & Irrigation
✔ Oil Refineries & Chemical Plants
✔ HVAC Systems (Chillers, Cooling Towers)
✔ Fire Protection Systems
✔ Wastewater Treatment


7. Selection Criteria

  • Flow Rate (Q) – Required liquid volume (m³/h, GPM).

  • Head (H) – Pressure needed (meters, feet, psi).

  • Fluid Type – Viscosity, corrosiveness, solids content.

  • Material – Cast iron, stainless steel, or specialty alloys.

  • Motor Compatibility – Power (kW/HP), speed (RPM).


Conclusion

Centrifugal pumps are versatile, efficient, and widely used for liquid transfer. Proper selection, installation, and maintenance ensure long service life and optimal performance.

The above content is compiled and published by Zhilong Drum Pump supplier, please specify, to buy oil drum pump, electric drum pump, high viscosity electric drum pump, fuel drum pump, food grade drum pump and so on, please contact us.


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