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Centrifugal pumps are classified as a dynamic pump type that use centrifugal force to turn mechanical energy into hydraulic energy. They are by far the most commonly used pumps on the market because they are reasonably priced and offer a good price/performance ratio for high flow applications. However, centrifugal pumps have a number of limitations that make them less than ideal for a range of industrial and hygienic applications. Electric diaphragm pumps solve many of these common issues.
Centrifugal pumps have several disadvantages compared to diaphragm pumps. Graco’s QUANTM pump is an electric double diaphragm pump (EODD) that addresses many of these common disadvantages of centrifugal pumps.
Centrifugal pumps have a specific impeller diameter, which means they only operate at optimum efficiency at a specific flow. Any flow range below or above this best efficiency point (BEP) is quite narrow. Not only does working outside the preset range significantly reduce the pump’s efficiency, but eventually, it also leads to cavitation, vibration, impeller damage, suction and discharge recirculation, or reduced bearing and seal life forcing complete rebuilds of the whole unit. QUANTM electric diaphragm pumps are well suited to varying flow, pressure, and applications. It poses no risk for shear-sensitive liquids and can easily handle abrasives and solids.
Some liquids can vary in viscosity due to temperature, chemical reaction or separation (varied layers or solids). The performance of a centrifugal pump is especially impacted when pumping more viscous liquids, because of the increased resistance to flow as the impeller rotates. The volume pumped by a centrifugal pump depends on head (back pressures) viscosity and the homogeneity of the material. If these values vary dynamically in a certain application, it is difficult to keep a centrifugal pump operating close to its best efficiency and also without prematurely wearing out the pump.
When a discharge valve is closed or a line blockage occurs, it causes the fluid to recirculate in the pump, and pressure to continue to build resulting in a build-up of motor temperatures. When a pump is run in a deadheaded condition for too long, the excess heat damages the expensive seals and reduces pump life. Without purchasing additional sensors and controllers, a centrifugal pump will continue to run until something fails. The extra cost of these additional sensors and controllers needs to be included in the total cost evaluation.
Centrifugal pumps are not self-priming. For the pump to work properly, its casing must be filled with liquid before start-up. When the casing fills with vapors or gases, the pump impeller becomes gas-bound and incapable of pumping. To make sure the pump remains primed and does not become gas-bound, centrifugal pumps need to be installed below the fluid level, from which the pump takes its suction. Alternatively, the pump can be primed by supplying liquid under pressure through another pump placed in the suction line. QUANTM pumps are self-priming and have excellent suction capabilities.
Particularly in the chemical industry, selecting a centrifugal pump for pumping solids is quite a challenge, as process owners need a pump that is not only compatible with the chemicals being processed, but also capable of handling solids without choking the impeller and thus causing increased pump wear and potential blockages. The centrifugal pump types that are suited to this specific set of applications tend to have lower performance areas and be more expensive.
High-speed systems, such as the centrifugal pump, tend to shear liquids which is why this technology is not the best choice for shear-sensitive liquids.
A centrifugal pump cannot run dry without causing damage to the system. The system needs to have resistance to dissipate rotation speed of the impeller. The QUANTM electric diaphragm pump can run dry without causing any damage to the system to avoid expensive repairs.
While centrifugal pumps are commonly used in various industries because of their efficiency with low viscosity materials and high flow rates, they may not always be the best fit for every application. Here’s a look at how centrifugal pumps are used in specific industries and QUANTM’s potential advantages:
Centrifugal pumps are commonly used to transfer beverages and other low-viscosity liquids in the food industry. But the forces generated by centrifugal pumps can sometimes damage sensitive fluids, altering quality. QUANTM pumps are able to maintain the integrity of shear-sensitive products like creams and yogurts. Additionally, their hygienic design ensures compliance with food safety standards.
Centrifugal pumps are often used for their ability to move large amounts of water, but they can struggle with varying pressure conditions and the presence of solids. QUANTM pumps are able to handle a wider operating range, including higher solid content fluids without the risk of clogging. Their resistance to harsh conditions makes them an ideal alternative for water treatment applications.
Graco’s QUANTM electric diaphragm pumpprovides much more flexibility and reliability over centrifugal pumps. Take a look at the benefits:
Centrifugal pumpsGraco QUANTM EODD pumpsNarrow best efficiency point and preferred operating range Consistent reliability over operating rangeDeadhead/stall causes severe damage Easily deadhead/stall with no additional equipment to prevent pump failuresProcess changes can lead to cavitation No degradation due to changing conditionsDifficult to choose correct pump Simple pump selection (pressure/flow/chemical composition)Shaft alignment difficult to maintain No spinning shaft seals; no alignment necessaryNot self-priming Excellent dry running/self-primingSpecial requirements for use in harsh environments Can withstand harsh environments
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