Ensuring that a centrifugal pump is running as efficiently as possible requires extensive knowledge of what makes an efficient system, and what factors create efficiency. These five articles are essential for any user of centrifugal pumps.
1. What Is Efficiency?
Efficiency in a machines is defined as how well it converts energy from one form to another. For example, if a machine receives one unit of energy and outputs a half-unit of energy, the efficiency of that machine would be 50%. Unfortunately, the English system of measurements makes efficiency calculations more complex than this example. Read more about efficiency and the use of constraints here.
2. Specific Speed
Specific speed is a confusing subject that people easily get hung up on. But by considering specific speed as an index number to predict pump characteristics, it can be somewhat easier to grasp. Read more about specific speed and how it can be used to select the right pump, and even predict premature failure.
3. The Power of Wear Rings Part Two: Efficiency
Metal wear rings can actually produce a substantial decrease in efficiency, even when they are reduced to the minimum clearance. Unfortunately, metal rings cannot experience a clearance reduction below the minimum without the risk of pump seizure. Read more about how metal wear rings limit pump efficiency here.
Pumps: HP, RPM, and Energy Efficiency
Reducing a pump’s operating speed can help extend the life of its motor and bearings. Even the pump seals will have a longer life span, and the damaging effects of abrasives are reduced. Read more about reducing operating speed to save money on maintenance and reduce downtime.
Gain Efficiency With Volute Design
In radial machinery as well as other applications, a volute is meant to transfer flow from an annular cross section to an exit pipe. Or, a volute might be reversed in a turbine; there are many variations on how this part is used. Read more about the many uses of a volute here.
For even more information about pumps and their components, speak to the experts at Real Seal.
