Centrifugal pumps are indispensable in various industrial applications, offering a wide array of types and designs tailored to specific needs. Understanding these differences is essential for selecting the appropriate pump for any given application.
Centrifugal pumps are categorized based on their design, which corresponds to their applications and intended uses. Common designs include single-stage, multistage, monobloc, in-line, and self-priming pumps.
Each pump type can be constructed with different components to handle various fluids, such as water, chemicals, abrasive or corrosive substances, with or without solids or gas content. The materials used in their construction, such as stainless steel, cast iron, or various plastics, are selected based on the specific fluids they will pump.
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- End-Suction Single Stage Centrifugal Pumps
- Multistage Centrifugal Pumps
- End-Suction Close Coupled Single Stage Pumps
- End-Suction Long Coupled Single Stage Pumps
- Split Case Centrifugal Pumps
- Inline Single Stage Centrifugal Pumps
- Inline Multistage Pumps
- Immersible Pumps
- Borehole Pumps
- Magnetic Driven Pumps
- SPS Pumps is at your Disposal
End-Suction Single Stage Centrifugal Pumps
Generally, single-stage pumps are used in applications which require
a total head of 2 to 100 or maximum 150 m.
Single-stage pumps are characterised by providing a low head relative to the flow.
This end-suction single stage pumps can be manufactured in various materials as cast iron, stainless steel and polymers of various type.
Some are also designed to ISO standard to allow perfect compatibility.
Multistage Centrifugal Pumps
Multistage pumps are used in installations where a high head is needed. Several stages are connected in series and the flow is guided from the outlet of one stage to the inlet of the next. The final head that a multistage pump can deliver is equal to the sum of pressure each of the stage can provide.
They provide a high head relative to the flow.
End-Suction Close Coupled Single Stage Pumps
Close-coupled centrifugal pumps can be constructed with a direct connection to the motor with a rigid coupling. Usually these pumps are designed to connect to a standard type of motor.
There have the advantage to be compact and are very useful where space is limited.
- Grundfos NB Family
- Grundfos NK Family
- Argal Synthetic Centrifugal Pumps
- Argal SATRUN evo
- Travaini Centrifugal Pumps
End-Suction Long Coupled Single Stage Pumps
Long-coupled pumps are pumps with a flexible coupling that connects the pump and the motor. This kind of coupling is available either as a basic coupling or as a spacer coupling.
If the motor is connected with a basic coupling, it is necessary to dismount the motor to service the pump.
The benefit of a spacer coupling is that there is no need to dismount the motor to service the pump.
On the other hand, the motor and the pump must be properly aligned when mounted.
Split Case Centrifugal Pumps
A split-case centrifugal pump features a housing divided axially into two parts, facilitating easier maintenance. Typically, it is equipped with a double suction impeller that eliminates axial forces, thereby extending the lifespan of the bearings.
Split-case pumps are known for their high efficiency, ease of service, and broad performance range.
Inline Single Stage Centrifugal Pumps
Single stage Inline centrifugal pumps are use as circulation pump for big air-conditioning installation, industrial heat exchanger and so on.
Inline Multistage Pumps
Multistage pumps are utilised in installations requiring high head. Multiple stages are connected in series, directing the flow from the outlet of one stage to the inlet of the next. The total head delivered by a multistage pump equals the sum of the pressure provided by each stage.
These pumps are primarily used as pressure boosters.
Immersible Pumps
An immersible pump is a type of pump where the pump component is submerged in the liquid being pumped, while the motor remains dry. Typically, immersible pumps are mounted on the top or sidewalls of tanks or containers. These pumps are widely used in the machine tool industry, including applications such as spark erosion machines, grinding machines, machining centers, and cooling units. They are also employed in various industrial applications involving tanks or containers, such as industrial washing and filtering systems.
Borehole Pumps
Most borehole pumps are equipped with submersible motors, primarily used for water supply and irrigation. Designed for installation in deep and narrow boreholes, they have a reduced diameter and are consequently longer. The submersible motor, which must be submerged, is protected with an IP68 rating.
A wastewater pump is an enclosed unit comprising both a pump and a motor, making it suitable for submersible installation in pits. Typically, double rails are used in submersible installations with auto-coupling systems, facilitating maintenance, repair, and replacement without needing to enter the pit. This system simplifies pump connection from outside the pit. Wastewater pumps are designed to handle large particles, featuring specialized impellers to prevent blockages and clogging. Various impeller types include single-channel, double-channel, three-channel, four-channel, and vortex impellers.
Magnetic Driven Pumps
Magnetic drive pumps (MagDrive) are becoming increasingly popular for handling aggressive and toxic liquids.
As shown in the diagram, the MagDrive pump consists of two groups of magnets; an inner magnet and an outer magnet.
A non-magnetisable can separates these two groups. The outer magnet is connected to the pump drive and the inner magnet is connected to the pump shaft. This transmits torque from the pump drive to the pump shaft. The pumped liquid acts as a lubricant for the bearings in the pump. Adequate ventilation of the bearings is therefore essential.
SPS Pumps is at your Disposal
SPS Pumps is the ideal partner for industry. We offer unrivalled technical support and in-depth knowledge of centrifugal pumps, as well as other types of pump.
Our expertise guarantees you reliable and efficient solutions tailored to your needs.
We also have a very wide range of spare parts in stock.
With SPS Pumps, you have a trusted partner committed to optimising your fluid handling systems.
Call us at +32 2 657 23 53 or send us an e-mail at info@sps-pumps.com.
The content of this webpage is inspired by and sourced from the Grundfos Pump Handbook, including the accompanying charts.