ABSTRACT
The basic concept of the centrifugal pump existed during the 1600's, but development was slow because the high speed drives needed were not available for another 200 years. Centrifugal pumps operate with high efficiency, few parts are required, initial cost is low, and maintenance is relatively easy. The design capacity of a centrifugal pump is determined by the diameter of the impeller eye, and the width of the impeller vanes. Submersible pumps, with the motor close coupled to the pump, are vertical pumps used for underwater duty. Most centrifugal pumps are radial pumps, they are able to produce high pressures. The High Service Pump at a potable water treatment plant, which lifts water from the plant to elevated storage is usually a radial pump. Backwash pumps - and Low Service Pumps, which carry water from the source to the treatment plant, are usually axial pumps.
