EUR
en
Centrifugal pumps operate by using centrifugal force to convert kinetic energy into hydrodynamic energy, facilitating the flow of various industrial fluids. Here’s how they work: Fluid is supplied through a nozzle and directed at an impeller within the pump system. The impeller’s rotation generates kinetic energy, which is transferred to the fluid. The energized fluid enters a volute casing or diffuser, where it slows down and its pressure increases.
Centrifugal pumps come in varied configurations which are suited for different industrial applications. The most popular variants are listed below. Axial and mixed flow vertical and horizontal centrifugal pumps Radial flow vertical and horizontal centrifugal pumps Electric, engine and hydraulically driven centrifugal pumps Single and multistage centrifugal pumps Vertical turbine and vertical sump centrifugal pumps Submersible centrifugal pumps
Centrifugal pumps are a staple in mechanical pumping systems across the USA, but did you know they come in different standards? The two main standards you’ll encounter are set by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI)and the American Petroleum Institute (API). ANSI Pumps: These are top-notch single-stage centrifugal pumps known for low maintenance and high efficiency. Originally designed for the chemical industry, they now serve various industrial markets due to their standardized designs and internal specifications. API Pumps: If you need pumps for high-pressure and high-temperature applications in oil and gas, API pumps are the go-to. They meet strict specifications and come in both single and multistage configurations. Both ANSI and API pumps are radial centrifugal pumps offered in various sizes, metallurgies, and configurations to suit different industrial needs.
Some key industrial applications that benefit from the use of centrifugal pumps are outlined below: Commercial food processing Alcoholic beverage manufacturing Chemical product synthesis Residential waterworks Oil and gas recovery Fire protection systems Sewage/slurry disposal systems
To operate properly, a standard centrifugal pump relies on several key components: An impeller Diffuser or volute casing Shaft and shaft sleeves Bearings Mechanical seals, Packing and Casing Cover
The impeller is attached to the shaft and spins at the same speed as the shaft, powered by a motor, engine, or hydraulic unit. As fluid enters the impeller’s eye, it passes through the vanes, gaining velocity and kinetic energy. By the time the fluid exits the impeller and enters the casing, its velocity matches the impeller’s rotational speed.
The diffuser or volute casing is responsible for containing the fluid and generating fluid pressure. It slows down the fluid’s velocity upon entry, converting velocity into pressure.
The shaft is the central part of the pump’s rotor system. It supports the impellers, mechanical seal, and bearings. The shaft provides a rigid framework for pump operations.
Bearings support the shaft and other rotating components within the pump’s housing. They absorb radial and axial forces during pump operation, maintaining shaft alignment for peak efficiency and reliability. Types of bearings used include anti-friction bearings, pivoted-shoe thrust bearings, and sleeve bearings.
Mechanical seals or packings prevent the pumped fluid from leaking along the rotating shaft. They are housed within the casing cover at the back of the pump casing. The type of seal used depends on factors like the process fluid, operational temperature, and pressure.
Exploring all aspects of centrifugal pumps is a deep dive beyond one article. For those seeking more information on this essential industrial equipment, here are some additional resources:
Bookmark
Daniel Féau processes personal data in order to optimise communication with our sales leads, our future clients and our established clients.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.