CENTRIFUGAL PUMPS,  CLASSIFICATION OF CENTRIFUGAL PUMPS,  INDUSTRIAL APPLICATION OF CENTRIFUGAL PUMP,  OPERATION PRICIPLE OF CENTRIFUGAL PUMP

Centrifugal Pump – Classification, Working and It’s Various Applications

December 10, 2016 /

CENTRIFUGAL PUMPS BRIEF

In this topic, I will explain Centrifugal pumps: Classification of Centrifugal pumps, Working principle, and various applications in Industry.

Centrifugal pumps are a type of mechanical device used to transport fluids, typically liquid, through piping systems. They convert mechanical energy from a motor or engine into fluid movement, using a spinning impeller to create centrifugal force that draws fluid into the pump and propels it outward. The liquid is then discharged through a discharge pipe at a higher pressure than it entered the pump.

Centrifugal pumps are widely used in various industries and applications, including water supply and treatment, oil and gas, chemical processing, food and beverage production, etc. They are often chosen for their relatively simple design, ease of maintenance, and high flow rates, making them well-suited for applications where large volumes of fluid need to be moved quickly.


Centrifugal pump



However, there are some limitations to centrifugal pumps. They can have difficulty handling viscous fluids or fluids with high solid content, and their efficiency can be affected by changes in pressure or viscosity. Additionally, their performance can be affected by impeller size, speed, and the size and configuration of the discharge piping system.

Centrifugal pumps are a versatile and widely-used technology for fluid transport in various industries and applications.

CLASSIFICATION OF CENTRIFUGAL PUMPS: –

Centrifugal pumps can be classified into several categories based on different criteria. Here are some common ways to organise centrifugal pumps:

  1. Based on the number of impellers: Centrifugal pumps can be single-stage or multi-stage, depending on the number of impellers they have. Single-stage pumps have one impeller, while multi-stage pumps have two or more impellers arranged in series.
  2. Based on the type of impeller: Centrifugal pumps can have different types of impellers, such as closed, semi-open, or open. Closed impellers are completely shrouded and have no vanes visible from the outside. Semi-open impellers have vanes on one side of the impeller, while open impellers have vanes on both sides.
  3. Based on the direction of flow: Centrifugal pumps can be radial, axial, or mixed flow, depending on the order of flow of the fluid through the impeller. Radial flow pumps have the fluid entering the impeller at right angles to the axis of rotation. In contrast, axial flow pumps have the fluid entering the impeller parallel to the axis of rotation. Mixed flow pumps have a combination of both radial and axial flow.
  4. Based on the type of casing: Centrifugal pumps can have volute or diffuser casings. Volute casings are shaped like a spiral and gradually increase the cross-sectional area of the case as the fluid flows through the impeller. Diffuser casings are made up of multiple vanes that expand the flow area of the liquid gradually as it flows through the impeller.
  5. Based on the application: Centrifugal pumps can be classified based on their intended application, such as water pumps, chemical pumps, food pumps, slurry pumps, or sanitary pumps. Each category has specific design features and materials tailored to the application’s requirements.

CENTRIFUGAL PUMP WORKING PRINCIPLE: –

The working principle of a centrifugal pump is based on transferring mechanical energy from the motor or engine to the fluid being pumped. This energy is used to spin an impeller in the pump’s centre. The impeller consists of a series of vanes or blades that rotate at high speed and create centrifugal force, generating a pressure difference within the pump.

As the impeller rotates, it draws fluid into the centre of the pump through the inlet, which is located at the centre of the impeller. The centrifugal force created by the impeller then propels the fluid outward towards the edge of the impeller, where it is discharged through the outlet of the pump.

The pressure generated by the impeller depends on factors such as the speed of rotation, the size and shape of the impeller, and the design of the casing surrounding the impeller. As the pressure inside the pump increases, the fluid is forced to flow out of the pump and into the piping system connected to the pump outlet.

Centrifugal pumps are often used in applications where large volumes of fluid must be transported quickly and efficiently. They are commonly found in water supply and treatment, chemical processing, oil and gas, food and beverage production, etc.

CENTRIFUGAL PUMPS APPLICATION IN INDUSTRY: –

Centrifugal pumps are widely used in various industries for a range of applications. Some of the common industries that rely on centrifugal pumps include:

  1. Water Supply and Treatment: Centrifugal pumps move water through treatment processes, distribute it to homes and businesses, and pump wastewater to treatment facilities.
  2. Chemical processing: Centrifugal pumps transfer and circulate comprehensive chemicals, including acids, alkalis, solvents, and more.
  3. Oil and gas: Centrifugal pumps are used for various oil and gas industries, including pumping crude oil and natural gas, transferring chemicals and additives, and circulating fluids during drilling operations.
  4. Food and beverage production: Centrifugal pumps produce an average product, such as dairy, juice, and beer, to transport and transfer liquids, syrups, and purees.
  5. HVAC and building services: Centrifugal pumps are used in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems to circulate water or other fluids for heating and cooling purposes.
  6. Agriculture and irrigation: Centrifugal pumps move water for irrigation, drainage, and livestock watering.
  7. Mining and construction: Centrifugal pumps are used in mining and construction operations to pump water and other fluids, such as slurry, to remove debris and transport materials.
These are just a few examples of the many applications of centrifugal pumps in various industries. Centrifugal pumps’ versatility, efficiency, and reliability make them popular for a wide range of fluid transport needs.


Sumit Marathe is an experienced engineer passionate about pumps and pumping equipment. He has worked in the industry for several years, gaining valuable knowledge and expertise in designing, installing, and maintaining various types of pumps. Sumit's passion for pumps and pumping equipment led him to start his blog, which focuses on providing in-depth information and insights into the latest trends and innovations in the industry. His blog covers many topics related to pumps and pumping equipment, including the different types of pumps, their applications, and their maintenance. Sumit's blog is a valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about pumps and pumping equipment. His articles are well-researched and provide a detailed analysis of the subject matter. Sumit also uses his blog to share his experiences and insights, giving readers a unique perspective on the industry. Sumit has become a respected voice in the world of pumps and pumping equipment through his blog. His dedication to the industry and his commitment to sharing his knowledge with others have made him a valuable resource for engineers, technicians, and anyone else who works with pumps regularly.

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