Centrifugal pumps use various types of impellers to move fluids by converting rotational energy into kinetic energy and then into pressure. The choice of impeller depends on factors like fluid viscosity, solid content, head requirements, and efficiency. Here are the main types of impellers used in centrifugal pumps:
Radial Flow Impeller
Fluid exits perpendicular to the shaft (90°).
High head, low flow applications.
Used in high-pressure pumps (e.g., multi-stage pumps).
Mixed Flow Impeller
Combines radial and axial flow characteristics.
Fluid exits at an angle (between 0° and 90°).
Medium head and flow applications.
Axial Flow (Propeller) Impeller
Fluid flows parallel to the shaft (0°).
Low head, high flow applications (e.g., flood control, irrigation).
Single Suction Impeller
Fluid enters from one side.
Simpler design but may have axial thrust imbalance.
Double Suction Impeller
Fluid enters from both sides.
Balanced axial thrust, higher flow capacity, and efficiency.
Closed (Shrouded) Impeller
Has front and back shrouds (covers).
High efficiency, best for clean liquids (no solids).
Used in water, chemical, and oil pumps.
Semi-Open Impeller
Has only a back shroud, open on one side.
Handles small solids and slightly viscous fluids.
Self-cleaning, used in wastewater and slurry pumps.
Open Impeller
No shrouds, just vanes attached to a hub.
Handles fibrous & abrasive fluids (slurries, sewage).
Less efficient but easier to clean and maintain.
Vortex Impeller
Creates a whirlpool effect to pass solids without clogging.
Used in sewage and slurry pumps.
Non-Clogging (Recessed) Impeller
Large flow passages to prevent clogging.
Handles thick slurries, wastewater, and debris.
Splitter Impeller
Alternating full and partial vanes for better efficiency.
Reduces turbulence in medium-viscosity fluids.
Backward-Curved Vanes
Most common, energy-efficient, stable performance.
Forward-Curved Vanes
Higher flow but lower pressure, prone to clogging.
Straight Radial Vanes
Simple design, used in slurry and abrasive applications.
Clean liquids → Closed impeller (high efficiency).
Solids/Slurries → Open or semi-open impeller.
High head → Radial flow impeller.
High flow → Axial or mixed flow impeller.
Each impeller type has trade-offs in efficiency, clog resistance, and maintenance needs. The right choice depends on the specific application.
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