Centrifugal pumps, southern cross pumps and more are all systems used in the chemical processes, water supplies, mining and sewage. Working as an essential tool to transport and move these liquids around to where they’re needed. Offering enhanced efficiency and productivity to various applications and industries, understanding how these centrifugal pumps work can ensure a smooth and problem-free operation in your business.
Main Applications for Centrifugal Pumps
Centrifugal pumps are a mechanical device designed to move fluid through rotational energy transfer from rotors or impellers. There are two models or families that use these functions of movement; centrifugal and positive displacement pumps. Centrifugal pumps are designed for higher flows and pumping at lower viscosity liquids.
In some chemical plants, 90% of the pumps in use will be centrifugal pumps. However, there are several applications for which positive displacement pumps are preferred.
How Does a Centrifugal Pump Work?
The impeller is the critical component of a centrifugal pump, consisting of a series of curved vanes. Fluid enters this impeller at its axis or eye and moves along to the exit along the circumference between the vanes. The impeller is connected through a drive shaft and motor rotating at high speed on the opposite side. The movement in the impeller accelerates the fluid out through the impeller and into the pump casing.
The action of the impeller increases the fluid’s velocity and pressure and directs it towards the pump outlet. Centrifugal pump casings are specially designed to restrict the fluid in your pump's inlet, leading it into the impeller and then slow and control the liquid before being discharged.
Centrifugal Pump Limitations
For an efficient operation in your centrifugal pump, your system will have to rely on the constant and high-speed rotation of its impeller. A centrifugal pump will become inefficient, with more excellent resistance and pressure needed to maintain a specific flow rate when high-velocity levels are required. A positive displacement pump will usually be used, as it works in the same way but can withstand higher-velocity levels.
Unlike positive displacement pumps, centrifugal pumps can’t provide suction when dry; they only offer this function when primed with pump fluid. Centrifugal pumps will also provide a variable flow when the feed pressure is irregular. So, a positive displacement pump is preferred in applications where accurate dosing is required.
The Best Centrifugal Pumping Systems in Australia
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