A pump is a mechanism used to transfer liquids. Each pump operates on a different principle. The question “What is a centrifugal pump?” can be answered as: it is a type of pump that converts kinetic energy into hydrodynamic energy to pressurize the liquid. This type of pump, which has a wide range of applications, can be used in various areas such as water discharge and agricultural irrigation.
What is a Centrifugal Pump?
A centrifugal pump consists of a simple mechanism. The pump, which has an impeller structure, receives mechanical energy from an electric motor, diesel engine, or turbine driver. It converts the mechanical energy it receives into kinetic energy through the impeller or diffuser inside. The main components of the pump are the diffuser, volute, and impeller. The volute is the area where the water discharged from the impeller is collected. The impeller, which has curved blades, is the part that rotates the fluid and converts mechanical energy into kinetic energy. The diffuser is generally located between the impeller and the volute. The ring-shaped diffuser allows a small portion of the high kinetic energy of the water coming from the impeller to be converted into pressure energy. The stuffing box inside the pump is located between the casing and the shaft, preventing leakage. Thanks to its simple mechanism, this pump type is frequently preferred and has a wide range of applications. The question “Where are centrifugal pumps used?” can be answered with the following areas:
- Agricultural irrigation
- Booster systems
- Wastewater treatment
- Paper industry
- Fuel stations
Operating Principle of a Centrifugal Pump
The general operating principle of a centrifugal pump is based on generating pressure. Inside the pump, there is an impeller. As the impeller rotates, a vacuum is created, drawing the liquid into the pump. The drawn liquid causes the impeller to spin rapidly, and as it does, the water inside is discharged outward. This process occurs due to centrifugal force. The impeller mechanism generates centrifugal force as it rotates at high speed. Because of this force, the liquid moves toward the discharge outlet of the pump, creating pressure. Explaining it by its parts: the liquid enters through the suction part and is directed to the center of the impeller. As the suction area of the impeller creates a vacuum, the liquid moves between the impeller blades. The liquid between the blades gains tangential velocity and moves toward the discharge side. While moving, it generates kinetic energy. The kinetic energy produced by the liquid is converted into pressure energy in the volute section of the pump. Therefore, a centrifugal pump operates on a pressure-generation system.
Types of Centrifugal Pumps
Pumps vary according to their features. Among centrifugal pump types, there are self-priming, horizontal, vertical, and standard ones. The standard centrifugal pump has a classic mechanism without additional features. Self-priming centrifugal pumps offer ease of operation — placing the suction line inside the well is sufficient for them to operate. Horizontal centrifugal pumps are used when liquids need to be transferred quickly. This pump type, which has minimal leakage and maximum efficiency, is also considered environmentally friendly. When a centrifugal pump fan has open impeller technology, fluid transfer becomes easier. Open impeller technology is commonly used in horizontal types. Another type is the vertical pump. Vertical pumps are submerged in tanks and used in a fixed position. In terms of flow type, they are classified as radial, axial, and mixed-flow pumps. Axial pumps have high flow rates. Water enters the pump radially and exits axially, making this type suitable for high flow applications. The radial type, also known as a centrifugal pump, takes the fluid axially into the center and discharges it radially. In mixed-flow pumps, water enters axially and exits between the axial and radial directions. Another classification is based on the number of stages. A pump with only one impeller is called a single-stage pump. Multi-stage pumps contain more than one impeller. Centrifugal pumps are categorized based on their application areas, design, and required pressure levels. Below are the most common types of centrifugal pumps:
- Horizontal Multistage Centrifugal Pump: Used in high-pressure applications. Common areas include potable water networks, water distribution systems, high-rise buildings, and industrial pressurization processes.
- Vertical Multistage Centrifugal Pump: Suitable for confined spaces requiring high pressure. Common areas include potable water networks, water distribution systems, high-rise buildings, and industrial pressurization processes.
- End-Suction Pumps: One of the most common centrifugal pump types. Commonly used in water supply and transfer stations, irrigation, sprinkling, drainage, industrial, and domestic liquid transfer applications.
- Submersible Pumps: Operate underwater to transfer liquids. Commonly used in water treatment plants, for transferring sludge or wastewater containing solid particles, and in sewage transport.
- Inline Type Pumps: Provide a compact solution on pipelines. Commonly used in heating and cooling systems, hot or cold water circulation, swimming pool water circulation, and fresh or seawater pumping on ships.
- Circulation Pumps: Typically preferred in heating and cooling systems. Commonly used for hot and cold water transfer in domestic applications.
- Self-Priming Pumps: Can operate without the need to discharge air. Commonly preferred in transfer processes where the suction level is high.
- Double Suction Pumps: Used in high-flow industrial systems and infrastructure applications. Commonly used in water treatment and processing, pumping stations, and water distribution networks.
- Booster Systems: Used to pressurize water in buildings and facilities. Installed as single or multi-pump systems to meet water needs of various facilities.
- Fire Pumps and Sets: Provide a reliable solution for fire suppression systems in emergency situations. Commonly used in hospitals, business centers, schools, warehouses, airports, and other commercial and public buildings.
Advantages of a Centrifugal Pump
The widespread use of centrifugal pumps is due to the advantages they offer. With a simple mechanism, the pump stands out for its economical structure. The price of centrifugal pumps varies depending on their technical specifications and model. One of their main advantages is energy efficiency — the mechanism consumes only as much energy as needed, making it cost-effective in both product and electricity use. Due to their compact design, they can be installed in confined spaces. They require minimal maintenance and offer long service life.
Reliable Centrifugal Pump Solutions with Masdaf
Since 1977, MASDAF has been a leading company in the pump industry, manufacturing high-quality pumps. The company offers lightweight, quiet, durable, and self-priming centrifugal pump options with a customer-oriented approach. By exploring the brand’s product range, you can find pumps that are easy to use and highly efficient.
Frequently Asked Questions About Centrifugal Pumps
Where Are Centrifugal Pumps Used?
Centrifugal pumps are widely used in industrial plants, irrigation systems, fire safety systems, heating and cooling applications, and potable water supply.
Why Does a Centrifugal Pump Get Airlocked?
A centrifugal pump becomes airlocked when there is a leak in the suction line or insufficient water supply. This reduces the efficiency of the pump and may cause malfunction.
How to Select a Centrifugal Pump?
Pump selection should be made considering the purpose of use, required flow rate, head (pressure), fluid properties, and energy efficiency criteria.