High Speed Pumps Are No Longer Limited to Low Flow Applications

Abstract

Historically, the high-speed centrifugal pump was developed prior to World War II for rocket engine fuel pump applications for its advantages of light weight, compactness and dry running capability. Industrial derivatives were introduced in the 60’s which utilized similar open impeller, partial emission diffuser configuration applied in a variety of hydrocarbon fluid services. The high-speed centrifugal pump of today operates at flows in excess of 250 gpm as a result of incorporating closed impellers of the Francis design and full emission volutes and vaned diffusers. In addition to the advantages of the previous low flow design, energy efficient operation in various boiler feed water, paper shower, and hydrocarbon and chemical services has been demonstrated. The features of these pumps such as impeller seals, high performance inducers and diffusers will be discussed in detail comparisons will be made in performance and configuration with conventional single and multistage pumps currently in the marketplace.