Introduction to Centrifugal Pumps
A
centrifugal pump is a type of machine used in fluid transfer applications. It works by converting the mechanical energy of a motor or engine into kinetic energy, which is then converted into pressure energy, which is used to move fluid through the piping system.
Centrifugal pumps consist of a rotating impeller located within a casing or casing. As the impeller spins, it creates a centrifugal force that pushes the fluid toward the outer edge of the impeller. This creates a low-pressure zone in the center of the impeller, causing fluid to flow into the pump through the inlet.
The fluid is then accelerated by the rotating impeller and pushed toward the pump outlet. The pressure at the pump outlet is higher than the pressure at the inlet, which causes fluid to flow through the piping system.
Centrifugal pumps are commonly used in a variety of applications including water supply systems, wastewater treatment, oil and gas production, chemical processing, and many other industries. They are superior to other types of pumps because they are relatively simple in design, easy to operate and maintain, and can handle a wide range of flows and pressures.
How A Self-priming Pump Works?
The
self-priming pump is a centrifugal pump that can automatically generate a suction lift and start by itself without external starting equipment or manual starting.
Self-priming pumps work by using a small amount of liquid to create a vacuum in the pump casing and suction line. When the impeller rotates, it sucks the air and liquid mixture through the suction pipe and enters the pump casing. The impeller then discharges the mixture from the pump through the discharge tube, creating a continuous flow.
As the liquid in the pump casing increases, the vacuum is gradually eliminated and the pump begins to operate normally. Once the pump is started, it can continue to run at a steady flow rate, even if the liquid level in the suction line is lower than the pump.
Self-priming pumps are often used in applications where the pump may be air-bound or the suction line may be partially filled with air or gas, such as wastewater treatment, irrigation systems, and drainage systems. They are preferred over traditional pumps as they require less maintenance, are more efficient, and reduce the risk of damage due to dry running or cavitation.