Different Types of Centrifugal Pumps

A centrifugal pump is a hydraulic machine that transforms mechanical energy into hydraulic energy through the use of centrifugal force acting on a liquid. It utilizes rotation to enforce velocity on a liquid, thereby transforming the velocity into flow. To achieve this, all centrifugal pumps are composed of an array of mechanical components that allow them to operate.

The mechanical assembly consists of a pump shaft that is mounted on bearings, and a sealing mechanism that prevents the pump from leaking uncontrollably. In addition, there are structural components that are designed to withstand the loads and stresses imposed upon the pump during operation. Moreover, you will also see wear surfaces that enable the pump to return to its original configuration after operating.

Centrifugal Pump Composition

Regardless of the type in question, all centrifugal pumps must have a shaft, impeller, casing, suction pipe, and delivery pipe.

Shaft

Serving as a central part of the pump, the shaft rotates alongside the impeller when connected. Generally, the pump shaft is affixed to the prime mover in order to generate power, and it is manufactured to fit perfectly with the ball bearing.

Impeller

Composed of an arrangement of backward curved vanes, the impeller is usually mounted to an electric motor’s shaft. It is known as the rotating part of the centrifugal pump, and it is contained in a watertight casing. As it rotates, it imparts velocity to a liquid.

Casing

The casing provides an airtight seal around the impeller that is constructed in a way that the water’s kinetic energy discharged at the outlet can be changed to pressure energy prior to the water leaving the casing and being sent to the delivery pipe. More than that, it most obviously protects the system and transforms the velocity developed by the impeller into a stable flow. Typically, there are three types of centrifugal pump casings, those of which include volute casings, vortex casings, and casings with guide blades.

Suction Pipe

The suction pipe featured two ends, the first being connected to the pump’s inlet and the second being dipped into the water in a sump. At the lower end, a foot valve is fitted. Keep in mind that the valve only opens in an upward position, as it is a one-way type. To prevent the entry of unknown particulate matter and other debris, a strainer can be connected at one end of the pipe.

Delivery Pipe (Valve)

The delivery valve is designed with two ends, where one is affixed to the pump’s outlet and the other end delivers water at a specific height.

Types of Centrifugal Pumps

There are a wide range of centrifugal pump variations, some of which we will outline in the next section. This list will help you determine what kind of centrifugal pump will benefit your particular applications.

• 12V Pumps, as their name suggests, operate 12V DC with a maximum flow of 330 GPH, and they consist of alligator clips, a battery cable, and an ON/OFF switch. In this pump, the lowest height of water being pumped out can be ? inches with the suction strainer, while the maximum height of water being lifted is 40 feet. Furthermore, it has a ¾ inch garden hose adapter at the outlet and inlets, 6 foot suction hose, gasket for replacement, and additional impeller. Due to the lightweight nature of 12V pumps, they are portable, and a carrying handle can be attached to the body for convenience.

• Chemical Pumps are manufactured for use with pumping chemicals because of their ability to resist corrosive or abrasive industrial liquids like paint, fuel, solvent, blench, and various others. Despite the number of liquids they can handle, special consideration must be given to the material of the chemical pump, ensuring that it can handle the concentration and temperature of the fluid in question.

• Radial Pumps utilize their impeller to distribute a fluid once it has rotated for 90 degrees in relation to the suction. Meanwhile, fluid makes its way into the horizontal suction flange and exits via a vertical outflow flange. It is important to note that the discharge will normally be perpendicular to the pump’s shaft, and this design is frequently utilized when there is a flow limitation or a need to raise the discharge pressure. As such, its radial design exhibits a low flow rate and is considered a high-pressure pump often found in gas and oil industries.

Other Common Centrifugal Pump Variations:

• Axial Pumps
• Volute Pumps
• Mixed Pumps

Conclusion

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