Basics of Centrifugal & Positive Displacement Pumps

The pumps widely used in industry, and by commercial buildings and municipalities, can almost all be classified as either centrifugal pumps or positive displacement pumps. The general components and operating characteristics of these two types of pumps are covered in this course, along with discussion of corrective and preventive measures for various pumping problems.

Topics: Functions of the following centrifugal pump components: impeller, volute, diffuser, packing, lantern ring, and wearing ring. Causes, symptoms and corrective measures for cavitation in a centrifugal pump The meaning of and measures to prevent gas binding, deadheading, and pump runout for centrifugal pumps Differences in operating characteristics between centrifugal and positive displacement pumps General nature of operating curves for centrifugal and positive displacement pumps the meaning of the term slippage as applied to positive displacement pumps. Different types of positive displacement pumps Learn how positive displacement pumps are protected against over-pressurization

Intended Audience: for mechanical, industrial, civil, chemical, environmental, and other engineers whose job description may require a general knowledge of centrifugal and displacement pump systems.

Publication Source: Dept. of Energy