19 Apr Centrifugal Pumps | Selecting the Right Centrifugal Pump
How to Choose the Right Centrifugal Pumps for Your Specific Application
The correct design, installation, and operation of centrifugal pumps will ensure that the pump you select from us at Prochem Chemical Pump Manufacturers operates at maximum efficiency. Purchasing centrifugal pumps based on price and size and installing a pump that doesn’t match the specific application can result in performance issues, which ultimately result in pump failure.
Matching Applications to Centrifugal Pumps
Being able to read the pump curve correctly when selecting industrial centrifugal pumps is crucial to ensuring that the pump performs efficiently at the correct flow rates and at certain pressures. Matching the specific application the pump is needed for to the pumping system, mechanically and hydraulically, has a direct bearing on the pump curve. Before reading the pump curve, it is important to know the following:
- The specific application for the pump
- Type of liquid that will be pumped
- Viscosity and temperature of the liquid
- Flow and pressure rates required
- The speed of the motor
What the curve represents is the flow rate that the pump will produce at certain levels of pressure to achieve maximum operating efficiency. A pump cannot be considered a stand-alone system as the flow and pressure produced by the pump is controlled by the system that the pump is installed in. Pump curves should be read before and after installation.
How Impellers Affect Pump Performance
The most crucial design element of centrifugal pumps is the impeller as its shape has a direct bearing on the performance of the pump. The diameter of the impellers, angle and number of blades, suction, and discharge diameter all influence the pump. If the impeller size is reduced, the pump curve decreases, which means that the flow and pressure rates produced by the pump will be less.
Factors Affecting Best Efficiency Point (BEP) Curve
Centrifugal pumps have a point in the pump curve where they operate at their highest efficiency. Pumps perform at their best efficiency point (BEP) when the curve is in the middle of its flow and pressure curve. As centrifugal pumps are typically used for continuous flow applications, the minimum safe flow rate for these pumps is usually at 40% of its best efficiency point. Should the curve of the pump run past its BEP in continuous flow applications, it will result in high temperature rises, low flow cavitation, low bearing and seal life, reduced impeller life, as well as suction and discharge recirculation.
When procuring a pump, the ultimate goal is to have one that will operate as reliably and efficiently as possible whilst transferring fluids from one point to another. Selecting centrifugal pumps based on performance curves will give you the information you need to determine the pump’s ability to produce the desired flow and pressure rates for specific operating conditions.
State-Of-The-Art Technology Pumping Systems
Ideally situated on the East Rand, we at Prochem Chemical Pump Manufacturers have been designing and manufacturing pumps and pumping equipment for more than 35 years. Although our principal range lies in chemical handling pumps, we offer customers a range of cast iron, stainless steel, and Hastelloy-C centrifugal pumps used for both water and chemical transfer and circulation.
We provide customers with professional, unbiased input and assistance to enhance run times and increase efficiency. Selecting the correct pump based on performance curves is why you need to contact us.