Centrifugal pumps

Waterkracht is a centrifugal pump specialist. Waterkracht supplies all kinds of different centrifugal pumps. They include electric centrifugal pumps, bore well pumps, high-pressure centrifugal pumps and power take-off centrifugal pumps. Usually, the centrifugal pump is used for irrigation systems but it can also be used for other jobs.

How a centrifugal pump works

The principle of a centrifugal pump is based on the rotating movement of an impeller in relation to a stationary pump housing. The impeller has several vanes which are always curved backwards and is connected to the shaft which is driven by a motor. The liquid enters the pump axially into the heart of the impeller. As the impeller turns, the liquid is transported and given an outwardly directed velocity, as a result of the centrifugal force. The outlet section of the centrifugal pump captures the liquid on leaving the impeller. The shape of this part is such that the high speed of the liquid is partly converted into static pressure by means of gradual expansion. Seals are fitted on the impeller and the pump housing to prevent liquid under high pressure flowing back to the inlet side of the pump or out of the pump housing.

Suction height of a centrifugal pump

This refers to the maximum bridgeable difference in height between the water surface and the heart of the pump. The theoretical limit for the maximum suction height is 10.3 metres. In practice, this height is less, due to various losses. In the case of a pump that is operating and connected optimally, the maximum feasible suction height will never exceed 8 metres.

The efficiency of a centrifugal pump

The efficiency of the pump depends on the quantity of energy that is lost in the electric motor and the pump. The shape and choice of material for the pump housing, the impellers and streamlined construction have an influence on the efficiency. As a result of better materials and modern construction and manufacturing techniques, modern pumps usually are more efficient than pumps in the past.

Factors that influence pump performance

If the total lift rises, the capacity falls, because the water pump has to compensate the pressure of the head of water. In other words, if the pressure rises, the pump delivers less water. At the same time, the flow rate of the water pump is affected by the length of the hoses, the bends in the tubes and pipes and the valves. When installing complex spraying systems, the frictional losses (pressure losses) in the pipes and fittings must also be taken into account.

Centrifugal pump range

Check out our centrifugal pump range. If the right centrifugal pump does not appear in our range: Please contact Waterkracht so that we can supply the right centrifugal pump for your needs.