centrifugal pump | Energy Glossary

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centrifugal pump

1. n. []

A type of pump commonly used in the handling and mixing of oilfield fluids. The rotary motion of a profiled impeller in combination with a shaped pump housing or volute applies centrifugal force to discharge fluids from the pump. Centrifugal pumps generally operate most efficiently in high-volume, low-output-pressure conditions. Unlike a positive-displacement pump, the flow from centrifugal pumps can be controlled easily, even allowing flow to be completely closed off using valves on the pump discharge manifold while the pump is running. This pump is sometimes known as a "C pump."

Alternate Form: C pump

See related terms: pump manifold