Centrifugal Pump

Definition

A centrifugal pump is a pump that draws water into the center of a high-speed impeller and forces the fluid outward with velocity and pressure.

Purpose

The purpose of a centrifugal pump is to move fluids through a piping system, providing the necessary pressure and flow rate for various applications such as water supply, irrigation, and industrial processes.

Examples of Use

1. Water Supply: Centrifugal pumps are used in municipal water systems to distribute water to homes and businesses.
2. Irrigation: Agriculture relies on centrifugal pumps to move water from sources to fields.
3. Industrial Processes: Factories use centrifugal pumps to circulate fluids in cooling and heating systems.

Related Terms

• Impeller: The rotating component of a centrifugal pump that imparts velocity to the fluid.
• Pump Head: The height at which a pump can raise water, an important measure of pump performance.
• Flow Rate: The volume of fluid that a pump can move per unit of time, often measured in gallons per minute (GPM) or liters per second (L/s).

Notes

• Centrifugal pumps are widely used due to their simplicity, efficiency, and ability to handle a variety of fluids.
• Regular maintenance is necessary to prevent issues like cavitation and ensure long-term reliability.