A centrifugal pump works by transferring rotational energy to a fluid, causing it to move. The fluid surrounding the impeller rotates due to the impeller's motion, imparting centrifugal force to the water particles. As the water moves radially outward, rotational mechanical energy is transferred to the fluid, increasing its velocity and pressure.
Here's a breakdown of the process:
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Impeller Rotation: The impeller, the rotating component of the pump, is driven by a motor.
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Fluid Intake: Fluid enters the pump near the impeller's center (the "eye").
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Centrifugal Force: As the impeller rotates, it forces the fluid surrounding it to rotate as well. This rotation imparts centrifugal force to the fluid particles. According to the referenced YouTube video, this centrifugal force causes the water to move radially outward.
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Kinetic Energy Increase: The fluid's velocity increases as it moves outward due to the centrifugal force. The rotational mechanical energy is transferred to the fluid.
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Pressure Increase: As the fluid exits the impeller, it enters a volute or diffuser. This area is designed to slow down the fluid.
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Discharge: The slowed fluid's kinetic energy is converted into pressure energy, which is then discharged from the pump's outlet.
In essence, a centrifugal pump converts mechanical energy (rotation) into fluid energy (velocity and pressure) using centrifugal force.
