Difference Between Centrifugal Pump and Reciprocating Pump

Last Updated on December 11, 2024

When it comes to industrial growth, pumps play an important role. Centrifugal and Reciprocating pumps are some of the most commonly sought for pumps. In this blog, after covering the definitions and applications, we will try to understand the basic difference between centrifugal pump and reciprocating pump.

What are Centrifugal Pumps?

Pumps that work on the principle of centrifugal force are known as centrifugal pumps. When the impeller present in the pump rotates, a centrifugal force is generated. The rotation also creates low-pressure area that allows the liquid to be drawn in the pump. Now,  the fluid gains velocity and is discharged from the pump outlet. 

These pumps are also known as multi-stage pumps and can handle high flow rates with ease. Let us look at some of the applications of centrifugal pumps:

• Municipal Water System: Centrifugal pumps find wide usage in municipal water supply systems where they transfer water to residentgial spaces from treatment plants.
• Agriculture: Centrifugal pumps play a vital role in agricultural department where they are used to distribute water in the fields.
• Industrial Process: Industries such as chemical manufacturing, pharmaceuticals and food processing units use centrifugal pumps to circulate chemicals and solvents. 

What are Reciprocating Pumps?

Pumps that use to and fro movement of the fluid are known as reciprocating pumps. The piston, diaphragm and plunger are the main components of reciprocating pumps. They displace the liquid from the pump in a controlled manner. They are great at places where the liquid has to be pushed with a significant force. 

These pumps are of two types: single-acting pumps and double-acting pumps. Some of their applications include:

• Hydraulic Systems: Hydraulic systems use reciprocating pumps where they eject high-pressure fluid ready to operate a machiinery. 
• Oil Well Drilling Systems: Reciprocating pumps are highly popular in drilling oil wells. 

Centrifugal Pumps Vs Reciprocating Pumps: Comparing Various Aspects

In the following paragraphs, let us try to understand the differences between centrifugal pumps and reciprocating pumps.  

1. Operating Principle:

• Centrifugal pumps are based on the principle of centrifugal force. The use of an impeller lets the fluid flow in the desired direction. As mentioned above, centrifugal pumps work on the principle of centrifugal force.
• Reciprocating pumps use the to-and-fro motion of the piston or diaphragm to displace the fluid. 

2. Capacity and Head (Pressure):

• Centrifugal Pumps can provide different capacities. This is achieved by adjusting impeller size or rotational speed, resulting in increased head and flow rate. Centrifugal pumps are unsuitable for high-pressure jobs although they boast a high capacity-to-footprint ratio.  
• In reciprocating pumps, the capacity can be increased by altering the size of the plunger and is well-suited for high-pressure jobs. 

3. Effect of Viscosity:

• When pressure increases, fluid viscosity has less of an impact on flow rate, thus, centrifugal pumps exhibit a relatively constant flow rate throughout a larger pressure range.
• High-viscosity fluids adversely affect reciprocating pump performance, resulting in decreased flow rate and higher power demands.

4. Performance:

• There is a clear change in the performance of the centrifugal pump with the change in operating points. The fluid flow rate is directly affected with the change in operating points. 
• In reciprocating pumps, a constant flow rate is maintained, whatever the operating point may be. Pressure levels in the pump might be different but the performance in regards to the flow rate remains the same. 

5. Area Required for Installation:

• Centrifugal pumps have a compact size which enables them to be fitted in a small space. 
• Reciprocating pumps are larger in size and include more and larger components. 

6. Cost of installation and operation:

• As centrifugal pumps have a simple design with least moving parts, their initial cost of installation is low. 
• Reciprocating pumps have a complex structure and more moving parts making their installation costlier than the centrifugal pumps.  

Difference Between Centrifugal Pump and Reciprocating Pump in Tabular Form

Conclusion:

• When used for low-pressure jobs, centrifugal pumps are highly energy-efficient and the opposite goes for reciprocating pumps that work extremely well with high-pressure jobs. 
• Since reciprocating pumps have more moving parts, they require more maintenance than the centrifugal pumps. 
• Centrifugal pumps are more appropriate for low-viscosity fluids while reciprocating pumps can handle a wider range of fluid types, including those with higher viscosity or abrasive properties.

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