The vast differences in the technical aspects of pumps can leave one perplexed as to which type of pump to purchase. By understanding the basic differences between diaphragm pumps and centrifugal pumps, making an informed decision on which one is preferable for an application will be a lot simpler. Even though both pumps are used for fluid transfer, we at Prochem Chemical Pump Manufacturers have combined our knowledge and expertise in the pumping industry for you to better understand which one is best suited for you.
Both diaphragm pumps and centrifugal pumps transfer fluids from inlet to outlet valves at controlled degrees of pressure and quantities. What makes these pumps differ is the method in which the fluid is transferred as well as the viscosity of the fluid that can be moved and the required suction lift. These variables need to be taken into consideration before selecting a pump.
What differentiates these pumps?
Centrifugal pumps use impellers that draw the fluid in at increased velocity, which assists in moving the fluid from the inlet to the outlet valve. Diaphragm pumps, on the other hand, use a flexible diaphragm that moves back and forth to create a pressure differential that moves fluid through the pump. When the diaphragm moves in one direction, it creates a vacuum that draws fluid into the pump chamber, and when it moves in the opposite direction, it compresses the fluid and forces it out of the pump.
Each pump works more efficiently with different types of fluids. Diaphragm pumps can handle high-viscous fluids, which will not affect the flow rates. The thicker the fluid gets, the more the flow rate increases. Centrifugal pumps are ideal for lower-viscosity fluids as higher-viscosity fluids can result in frictional losses. The impellers of centrifugal pumps can present a risk to shear-sensitive fluids.
Regardless of the distance or the varying pressures at which the fluid needs to be pumped, diaphragm pumps will deliver consistent flow rates. The flow rate of centrifugal pumps varies according to pressure. Centrifugal pumps need to be constantly primed in the liquid that needs to be pumped, whereas diaphragm pumps can handle intermittent dry runs due to their self-priming capabilities.
For applications that require the transfer of thin liquids at high volumes, low pressure, and high flow rates, centrifugal pumps excel. For high-pressure, low-flow rate applications, diaphragm pumps are ideal. In many industrial applications, both pumps are used to get desired results. For example, in food processing, centrifugal pumps are used to move water to batches and diaphragm pumps are needed to control the movement of thicker compounds in them.
Centrifugal pumps are more efficient at lower levels of viscosity, whereas diaphragm pumps are more efficient at higher levels of viscosity. Both pumps will offer a high level of performance when used in the ideal system.
The differences between centrifugal and diaphragm pumps is minimal and we hope that by having the basic operational information on them, you are better equipped at deciding which one is better for your requirements. Whether the pump you need is for irrigation, petrochemical and light fuel transfer, or municipal sewage systems, we at Prochem Chemical Pump Manufacturers will have the pumping solution for you.
Since 1987, we have been manufacturing and designing pumps and pumping equipment in South Africa. We offer a comprehensive line of chemical pumps and pumping equipment for the most demanding applications. We provide our customers with professional, unbiased input in pump management, equipment analysis, and product recommendations.
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