What Is The Difference Between A Peripheral Pump And A Centrifugal Pump?

What is the difference between a peripheral pump and a centrifugal pump? This is a common question that arises when selecting the type of pump to use in a particular application. Both types of pumps are used extensively in different industries, but they have distinct differences that make them suitable for different applications. In this article, we will explore the significant differences between a peripheral pump and a centrifugal pump.

The working principle of a peripheral pump and a centrifugal pump is entirely different. **A peripheral pump, also known as a regenerative pump, is a type of pump that utilizes an impeller with numerous radial vanes mounted on a circular shaft. The impeller rotates within the volute casing that contains a small clearance. When the impeller rotates, the fluid moves from the inlet to the outer diameter region of the impeller. As the fluid moves through the impeller vanes, its kinetic energy increases, and pressure also increases. The impeller discharges the fluid back into the casing but at high pressure. The fluid then leaves the casing through the discharge port. Peripheral pumps move fluid by means of high-speed rotation of a disc that generates pressure in the liquid.

On the other hand, a centrifugal pump, also known as a radial flow pump, is a type of pump that utilizes a rotating impeller to move fluid radially outwards. The impeller has a series of curved vanes that spin at high speeds, creating a centrifugal force that moves the fluid. The fluid enters the pump through the suction port and is drawn into the eye of the impeller by the low-pressure zone created by the vanes. As the fluid gains speed, and pressure within the pump, it moves outward radially and flows into the volute or diffuser. The volute or diffuser then directs the fluid to the discharge port. Centrifugal pumps move fluid by the conversion of the kinetic energy of the fluid into the potential energy of the fluid as it moves from the centerline of rotation towards the casing.

In summary, while both types of pumps move fluid through the action of an impeller, their design, and operation differ significantly. Peripheral pumps rely on a high-speed rotation of a disc to generate fluid pressure. In contrast, centrifugal pumps rely on the centrifugal force generated by the impeller vanes to move fluid radially.**

When it comes to efficiency, peripheral pumps tend to have a higher efficiency than centrifugal pumps when both are specified for low flow rates. **This is because peripheral pumps have high-pressure capabilities, which are particularly useful for low flow applications such as in water heaters, refrigeration systems, and fuel delivery systems. Because peripheral pumps have impellers that are not symmetrical, they can achieve higher head pressure than centrifugal pumps. However, at high flow rates, the efficiency of a peripheral pump falls drastically, and a centrifugal pump is the better option.

A centrifugal pump has a flatter efficiency curve across flow rates than a peripheral pump. This means that it has comparable efficiencies over a broad range of flow rates. It is, therefore, an excellent choice for high flow applications, such as in irrigation, fire protection, and mining. When the required flow rate is higher, a centrifugal pump is generally the better choice due to its higher flow rate capabilities as compared to a peripheral pump, which is best suited for low flow applications.**

Another significant difference between peripheral pumps and centrifugal pumps is their ability to handle viscous fluids. **Peripheral pumps are ideal for pumping low-viscosity fluids such as water, gasoline, and light oils. They are not well suited for heavy or viscous fluids like crude oil, which require a more powerful pump. In contrast, centrifugal pumps can handle these heavier fluids due to the size of their impeller, which is designed to move larger particles than that of a peripheral pump.

Furthermore, when it comes to maintenance requirements, peripheral pumps are relatively straightforward to maintain because they have fewer moving parts**. Since there are no seals or bearings, the wear on these components is minimal, and there is little need for maintenance. In contrast, centrifugal pumps require more maintenance than peripheral pumps because of their complex design. They have many moving parts, including bearings and seals, which require regular maintenance and replacement. However, centrifugal pumps are generally easier to repair since many components are designed to be replaceable.

In conclusion, both peripheral pumps and centrifugal pumps have their advantages and drawbacks depending on the application. **Peripheral pumps are best suited for low flow rates and low viscosities, while centrifugal pumps are better suited for high flow rates and heavier fluids. Peripheral pumps are generally more efficient than centrifugal pumps at low flow rates, but their efficiency falls steeply at high flow rates. On the other hand, centrifugal pumps have a flatter efficiency curve across the flow rates, giving them an edge in high flow rate applications. Peripheral pumps also require less maintenance, while centrifugal pumps require more maintenance due to their complex design. Ultimately the decision on which pump to use depends on various factors such as flow rate, fluid viscosity, pressure, and temperature requirements, among others.**