The Do’s and Don’ts of Handling Centrifugal Pumps

Looking for a reliable pump supplier? Masterflow offers a variety of centrifugal pumps for different needs.

The centrifugal pump is one of the simplest and most popular hydraulic pumps in use, particularly for water systems. It uses kinetic energy to move liquids from one point to another. Inside a centrifugal pump, the motor is attached to an axis that rotates the pump impeller. The impeller has curved vanes that are fitted inside its shroud plates. When it begins to rotate, the water or fluid also rotates. This causes a centrifugal force to build up, which moves the water out of the pump.

Although the mechanism may be simple, there are certain ways to install and maintain the pump to prolong life and ensure that water is pumped out efficiently.

What You Can Do to a Centrifugal Pump

If you are going to install a centrifugal pump in your water system, position the control valves closer to the pump discharge outlet rather than the system outlet. This ensures that the valve inlet will receive positive pressure and reduce pump damage from cavitation (where small air bubbles bombard the impeller when the pump is on). Another way to avoid pump damage is to ensure that your pump has a pressure gauge on the discharge part of the pump. Placing it close to the pump outlet will help you diagnose pump problems.

What You Cannot Do to a Centrifugal Pump

When using a centrifugal pump, remember to not let the pump run dry. The water acts as a coolant to the heated parts during its use. If the pump operates without water, the friction generated by the impeller can overheat the pump and damage the bearings and shaft.

Masterflow is one of the trusted pump suppliers in Australia. If you are having trouble selecting a centrifugal pump suitable for your needs, contact us for expert advice and assistance.

If you want to enquire about our wide range of centrifugal pumps, please call us on +61 2 9748 2022.