What is a centrifugal pump?
Liquid enters at the centre of the impeller and is thrown outward by the rotation, gaining speed and then pressure as it passes through the casing. Centrifugal pumps give a smooth, continuous flow and suit clean and slightly dirty liquids across a wide range of flows. They can be built end-suction, split-case, multistage or vertical, depending on the head and flow needed.
Listed manufacturers
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List your companyCentrifugal Pump or reciprocating or positive-displacement pump?
A centrifugal pump gives smooth flow that changes with the pressure it works against, and suits large flows at moderate pressure. A positive-displacement pump delivers a fixed volume per stroke or turn, which suits high pressure, thick liquids and accurate dosing.
What to specify when you ask for a quote
- Flow and total head at the duty point, with the performance curve.
- The liquid: temperature, solids, corrosiveness and density.
- Materials of the casing, impeller and shaft for that liquid.
- Shaft sealing: gland packing or mechanical seal, and the arrangement for leakage.
- Motor rating, speed and drive arrangement, and the efficiency at the duty point.
- Spares, and the make of bearings and seals so repairs are practical.
Where it is used
- Water TreatmentWater supply, transfer and treatment.
- Industrial MachineryCooling, process and utility circuits.
- AgricultureIrrigation and drainage.
Frequently asked questions
How do I select a centrifugal pump?
Define the flow, total head and liquid, then choose a pump whose curve passes through that duty point near its best efficiency. Check materials and sealing for the liquid.
What is cavitation?
Cavitation is the formation and collapse of vapour bubbles when pressure at the impeller inlet is too low. It causes noise, vibration and damage, and is avoided by correct suction conditions and by checking the pump's required suction head.
Why does a pump lose performance over time?
Wear on the impeller and wear rings, a blocked suction or a change in the system head are common causes. Compare current performance with the original curve and inspect the pump.