Engineering Encyclopedia

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards

CENTRIFUGAL PUMPS

Note: The source of the technical material in this volume is the Professional
Engineering Development Program (PEDP) of Engineering Services.
Warning: The material contained in this document was developed for Saudi
Aramco and is intended for the exclusive use of Saudi Aramco’s employees.
Any material contained in this document which is not already in the public
domain may not be copied, reproduced, sold, given, or disclosed to third
parties, or otherwise used in whole, or in part, without the written permission
of the Vice President, Engineering Services, Saudi Aramco.

Chapter : General Engineering For additional information on this subject, contact

File Reference: AGE-102.01 PEDD Coordinator on 874-6556
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Section Page

INTRODUCTION............................................................................................................ 4
PRINCIPLES OF OPERATION AND MAJOR COMPONENTS OF
CENTRIFUGAL PUMPS ................................................................................................ 5
Principle of Operation ............................................................................................... 5
Head Produced By a Centrifugal Pump .................................................................... 6
Application of Centrifugal Pumps .............................................................................. 7
Mechanical Components .......................................................................................... 8
Head Vs. Flow Characteristic.................................................................................. 13
System Resistance ................................................................................................. 14
PERFORMING PUMP CALCULATIONS ..................................................................... 19
Equations for Calculation of Head Required ........................................................... 19
Pump Horsepower .................................................................................................. 20
Driver Power, Motors .............................................................................................. 20
Actual Volumes ....................................................................................................... 21
Plant Data.......................................................................................................... 21
Calculate Pump ∆P Required from Process Data................................................... 22
Procedure .......................................................................................................... 22
Contingency Factors.......................................................................................... 22
Head Produced by an Operating Pump .................................................................. 23
Net Positive Suction Head ...................................................................................... 23
NPSH Available vs. NPSH Required ................................................................. 24
Cavitation................................................................................................................ 28
Dissolved Gases................................................................................................ 28
Performance Curves ............................................................................................... 29
Viscosity ............................................................................................................ 30
IMPELLER DIAMETER CHANGES ............................................................................. 31
EFFECTS OF ADDING PUMPS IN SERIES OR IN PARALLEL.................................. 34
Characteristics of Pumps in Series ......................................................................... 34
Caution: Pumps in Series ................................................................................. 35
Characteristics of Parallel Pumps ........................................................................... 36
Caution: Pumps in Parallel ................................................................................ 37
DESCRIBING CONTROL SYSTEMS .......................................................................... 38
Typical Centrifugal Pump Installation...................................................................... 41
Starting a Centrifugal Pump............................................................................... 43
Optional Features .............................................................................................. 43
OPERATING PROBLEMS WITH CENTRIFUGAL PUMPS ......................................... 45
Standards ............................................................................................................... 46
Industry Standards ............................................................................................ 46
Saudi Aramco Standards................................................................................... 46

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WORK AID 1 ................................................................................................................ 47

WORK AID 2 ................................................................................................................ 48
WORK AID 3 ................................................................................................................ 49
WORK AID 4: AFFINITY LAWS .................................................................................. 50
WORK AID 5 ................................................................................................................ 51
WORK AID 6: ............................................................................................................... 52
WORK AID 7 ................................................................................................................ 53
WORK AID 8: SELECTION CHARTS ......................................................................... 54
WORK AID 9 ................................................................................................................ 55
WORK AID 10: PUMP HEAD AND HORSEPOWER .................................................. 56
GLOSSARY ................................................................................................................. 60
REFERENCES............................................................................................................. 63
Other References.................................................................................................... 63

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1. Centrifugal Pump ...................................................................................... 5

Figure 2. Head and Differential Pressure are Equivalent ......................................... 7
Figure 3. Horizontal, Single Stage, Overhung Pump ............................................... 9
Figure 4A. Types of Centrifugal Pumps.................................................................... 10
Figure 4B. Types of Centrifugal Pumps (Cont’d) ...................................................... 11
Figure 5. Basic Types of Impellers......................................................................... 12
Figure 6. Head Vs Flow Characteristic................................................................... 13
Figure 7. Components of System Resistance - Static Pressure
Differential............................................................................................... 15
Figure 8. Components of System Resistance - Elevation Differential .................... 16
Figure 9. Components of System Resistance - Friction Resistance ...................... 16
Figure 10. System Resistance ................................................................................. 17
Figure 11. Pump and System Curve ........................................................................ 18

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Figure 12. Calculation Procedure for NPSHA ........................................................... 26

Figure 13. Average NPSHR as a Function of Pump Capacity at Constant
Speed ..................................................................................................... 27
Figure 14. Typical Performance Curve........................................................................ 29
Figure 15. Centrifugal Pump Viscosity Correction Factors....................................... 32
Figure 16. Pump Performance with Change of Impeller Diameter ........................... 33
Figure 17. Characteristics of Pumps in Series ......................................................... 34
Figure 18. Pumps in Series...................................................................................... 35
Figure 19. Characteristics of Parallel Pumps ........................................................... 36
Figure 20. Pumps in Parallel .................................................................................... 37
Figure 21. Protection Against Low-Flow .................................................................. 39
Figure 22. Controls - Pumps in Parallel ................................................................... 40
Figure 23. Typical Centrifugal Pump Installation...................................................... 42
Figure 24. Suction Line Pockets .............................................................................. 45
Figure 25. Average NPSHR as a Function of Pump Capacity at Constant
Speed ..................................................................................................... 48
Figure 26. Centrifugal Pump Viscosity Correction Factors....................................... 49
Figure 27. Typical Centrifugal Pump Installation...................................................... 51
Figure 28. Comparison of Pump Types and Construction Styles: General
Characteristics ........................................................................................ 52
Figure 29. Comparison of Pump Types and Construction Styles:
Performance Characteristics................................................................... 53
Figure 30. Selection Chart ....................................................................................... 54
Figure 31. Checklist for Centrifugal Pump Troubles and Causes............................. 55
Figure 32. Exercise 10 Figure .................................................................................. 56

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INTRODUCTION

Centrifugal pumps are the most common type of pump used by

Saudi Aramco and other petroleum companies. Almost all
processes contain several centrifugal pump installations.

Calculating the process parameters for these pumps is a

significant part of every process engineer's job. A basic
understanding of mechanical components, control systems and
installation details is also important.

Specification of a new pumping service is a cooperative effort

between a process engineer and a mechanical specialist. This is
also true for most troubleshooting assignments.

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PRINCIPLES OF OPERATION AND MAJOR COMPONENTS OF

CENTRIFUGAL PUMPS

Principle of Operation

A pump converts mechanical energy into pressure in a flowing

liquid. A centrifugal pump does this by centrifugal action, in two
steps. Refer to Figure 1. (1) A centrifugal pump has two major
components: the internal impeller and the outer casing. The
liquid enters the suction of the pump at A. It then flows to B and
outward through the channels of the impeller marked C. As the
liquid flows outward in the impeller, the impeller imparts a very
high spinning or tangential velocity to the liquid. (2) The liquid then
enters the volute of the pump, area D. Here the velocity energy is
converted to pressure.

Figure 1. Centrifugal Pump

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Head Produced By a Centrifugal Pump

Head is the term used to describe the energy imparted to the

liquid. The units of head are foot-pounds (ft-lb) of force per pound
of mass.

Head(ft)= v2/2g

where:

V = Velocity of impeller outlet tip, ft/sec

g = gravitational constant, 32.2 ft/sec2

Note that the important velocity is the tangential velocity at the

outlet tip of the impeller. This velocity is proportional to the
diameter of the impeller and the rotational speed. Therefore, the
equation for head can be written in terms of pump characteristics
as follows:

2
 DN 
Head (ft ) =  
1,840 

where:

D = Impeller diameter, inches

N = Pump speed, rpm

The precise units of head are ft-lb (force) per lb (mass). However,
it is conventional practice to cancel the lb units and to speak of
head in terms of feet. Note that the pump vendor designs the
impeller to produce the head required at the design point.

The pressure differential produced by a pump is equivalent to a

column of the pumped liquid, where the height of the column is
equal to the head produced by the pump. See Figure 2. For a
given flow and speed, head produced is constant, assuming no
wear and fouling.

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Application of Centrifugal Pumps

Centrifugal pumps are the type of pump most commonly used in

the process industries. They are the first choice because they
have very few moving parts, are simple to maintain, and are
available for a wide range of flow rates and differential pressures.

There are a few exceptions where other types of pumps are more
appropriate. These are services with a very high differential
pressure, above about 2000 psi; very high viscosities, above 500
cSt; or very low flow rates, below 10 gpm. However, in most
industries, more than 90% of the pumping applications will be
covered by centrifugal pumps.

Figure 2. Head and Differential Pressure are Equivalent

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Mechanical Components

Figure 3 illustrates the major components of a centrifugal pump.

This is a diagram of a horizontal single-stage, overhung pump, the
most common type. Horizontal refers to the orientation of the
shaft. Single-stage means there is one impeller. Overhung means
that the impeller is outside of the two supporting bearings, not
between the bearings.

In Figure 3, the shaft runs through the center of the pump and
holds the impeller at the left end. The drive motor is connected to
the right end of the shaft through a flexible coupling. The liquid
enters the suction nozzle, passes through the enclosed sections
of the spinning impeller, and exits through the discharge nozzle at
the top of the pump. The right end of the pump is the bearing
bracket. This bracket contains two sets of ball bearings that
support the weight of the shaft. They also absorb the axial thrust
on the shaft.

The casing contains the liquid under pressure. A seal is required

where the rotating shaft enters the casing. This area is called the
stuffing box and may actually contain a stuffing or packing.
However, most modern pumps have mechanical seals in this area.
Sealing the shaft is very important to prevent leakage of the
pumped fluid, which is frequently hazardous, flammable, or toxic.
Therefore, careful attention must be paid to the design, installation,
and maintenance of the seals. Many different types of seals are
available for different process conditions.

Heat is generated by friction in the seal area of the shaft, and

sometimes cooling is required. A channel called the flushing
connection is available for this purpose.

The amount of head that can be generated by a single impeller

has physical limitations. If more head is required than can be
generated by a single impeller, pump designs incorporate two or
more impellers. These may be arranged in a horizontal multistage
configuration or a vertical multistage configuration. These two
configurations are described later.

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Impellers may be the open, semi-closed, or closed. These are

shown in Figure 5. In the petroleum and gas process plants, most
impellers are of the closed type. Closed impellers can generate
higher heads at greater efficiencies. Open and semi-closed
impellers are used for liquids that contain solids. They will not clog
as easily as closed impellers.

Lantern Ring Stuffing Box for

Casing Rings Front Connection Mechanical Seal or
and Back Side Shaft Packing (Packing Illustrated)
of Impeller Sleeve Ball Bearing
Thrust Bearing

Cantilevered or
Overhung Type
Shaft Support
Impeller
Balance Port

Oil Lubrication System

Guide Bracket
(Not for Structural
Quenching Type
Support)
End Suction Casing Packing Gland
Circular Casing
Closed Type Impeller Joints with
Confined Gasket

Figure 3. Horizontal, Single Stage, Overhung Pump

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Figure 4A. Types of Centrifugal Pumps

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• Horizontal-Single Stage

The most common type

− Used for moderate head, <500 ft
− End suction top discharge
+ or top suction, top discharge

• Vertical In-line

− Supported by piping or small foundation

− Motor is supported by pump; piping forces do not affect alignment
− Lower cost, simpler maintenance

• Horizontal Multistage

− Up to 8 impellers for higher head

− Shaft supported between bearings

• Vertical Can

− Used when low NPSHR is needed

• Vertical-Submerged Suction

− Like vertical can type, without the can

− Used in sumps or shallow wells
− Used to pump water from the sea, or from reservoirs

• Submersible

− Used in oil and water production wells

Figure 4B. Types of Centrifugal Pumps (Cont’d)

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Figure 5. Basic Types of Impellers

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Head Vs. Flow Characteristic

The process performance of a centrifugal pump is described by a

curve called the head versus flow characteristic. See Figure 6.
Centrifugal pumps are constant-head devices. This means that
they provide a nearly constant head, or pressure differential, even
though the flow rate changes. As Figure 6 shows, the head
produced by the pump does increase somewhat as the flow rate
decreases from the design point. Conversely, the head
decreases at flow rates above the design point. However, over the
normal operating range of the pump, the head is relatively constant
or, as we say, the curve is relatively flat. Normally, the head
developed at zero flow is no more than 110 to 120% of the head at
the design point. This is called the shutoff point, or shutoff head.

Figure 6. Head Vs Flow Characteristic

Note that shutoff means that the flow is shut off, for example by
closing a valve at the discharge of the pump. The pump itself
continues to rotate and develop differential pressure. However, a
centrifugal pump should not be operated this way. After a very
short period of time, the pump will overheat and damage will occur.

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System Resistance

The discussion has centered on the head produced by an

operating pump. Another important concept is system resistance.
This is the head required to move liquid from one point in the
process to another.

The total head (or differential pressure) required for a circuit can
be divided into three components: (See Fig. 7, 8 and 9).

• Static pressure differential - The difference in pressure

between the two vessels, P2 − P1.

• Elevation differential - The head required to lift the liquid from

its initial to its final elevation.

• Friction resistance in the flowing system.

Figure 10 shows a typical pump circuit. This circuit contains all

three components of system resistance.

The magnitudes of the three components are illustrated in the

lower half of Figure 10. Notice that pressure differential and
elevation are constant values, independent of the flow rate through
the circuit. However, the dynamic friction resistance depends on
the flow. The dynamic friction resistance is proportional to the
square of the flow rate. Thus, at zero flow rate, the friction
resistance is zero, but it rises exponentially as the flow rate
increases.

To understand the dynamics of a pumped circuit, it is sometimes

useful to plot the pump curve and the system curve together. This
has been done in Figure 11. The head can be expressed either as
feet of fluid or differential pressure (psi), as long as the units are
consistent. At zero flow rate, the head produced by the pump is
much greater than the head required to overcome the resistances
of the system. However, as the flow rate increases, the head
required increases. At the same time, the head produced by the
pump decreases. At the design flow rate, the head produced by
the pump is still larger than the head required. The difference, or
excess delta P, is taken up by a control valve.

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The curve shows that if the flow rate is increased beyond the
design value, the pressure drop available for the control valve
becomes smaller and smaller. When the curves meet, the
pressure drop available for control is zero, the control valve is wide
open and the flow rate cannot increase further.

Conversely, if the flow rate is controlled at a value below design,

the control valve will take a larger pressure drop.

Figure 7. Components of System Resistance -

Static Pressure Differential

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Figure 8. Components of System Resistance - Elevation Differential

Figure 9. Components of System Resistance - Friction Resistance

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Figure 10. System Resistance

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Figure 11. Pump and System Curve

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PERFORMING PUMP CALCULATIONS

Equations 1, 2 and 3 are for calculating pump head.

Pump ∆P is the difference between discharge pressure and

suction pressure in psi. Pump head is equivalent, but expressed in
terms of feet of liquid.

Usually, the system requirements are calculated in psi. The pump

capability is known in feet. Equations 1, 2 and 3 are used to
convert from one unit to the other. The end user or contractor
calculates these values.

Equations for Calculation of Head Required

• Pump ∆P = P2 − P1 (psi) Eqn. (1)

P1 = Suction pressure (psig or psia)

P2 = Discharge pressure (psig or psia)

P(psi ) × 2.31
• Head (feet ) = Eqn. (2)
S.G.

S.G. = Specific Gravity.

= Density of pumped product relative to

density of water at standard temperature
(60ºF).

• ∆P = Head (ft) x 0.433 x S. G. Eqn. (3)

Density of water at standard temperature (60ºF)

S.G. = 1.0

Density = 8.33 lb/gal

3
= 62.4 lb/ft

= 350 lb/barrel

= 2,205 lb/metric ton

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Pump Horsepower

Brake horsepower is the power applied to the shaft between the

pump and its driver. It is calculated as follows:

• bhp =
(gpm ) × ∆P Eqn. (4)
1715 × (Pump Efficiency )

where:

bhp = Brake horsepower

gpm = Pump flow rate, actual gallons per

minute.

∆P = Differential pressure, psi

Pump
Efficiency = Hydraulic efficiency of the pump, as a
decimal.

Pump efficiency is a characteristic of the pump. Typical values are

0.50 to 0.85. You can read the efficiency from the manufacturer's
performance curve, at operating flow rate and head.

For small pumps, handling less than 150 gpm, the efficiency may
be less than 0.50.

Driver Power, Motors

bhp × 0.746
• Power (kW ) = Eqn. (5)
Motor Efficiency

where:

kW = Power input to motor, kilowatts

Motor eff. = Efficiency of the electric motor, as a

decimal. Typical values are 0.85 to 0.95.
See "Electric Motors" section of this
course.

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Note one important point about Eqns. 1-5. For a particular

centrifugal pump (at a given speed and flow rate), the head
produced is a characteristic of the pump. It is a constant value.
However, the delta P produced is not constant. The delta P varies
directly with the specific gravity of the pumped fluid. Also, if the
specific gravity increases, the brake horsepower increases.
Therefore, a pump and driver set that has been designed for a
liquid with a low specific gravity, such as a light hydrocarbon, may
not have sufficient drive horsepower to pump water at the same
flow rate. Because of the higher specific gravity, the horsepower
requirement is greater and the driver may be overloaded.

Actual Volumes

When liquids are heated they expand. The volume that

determines the pump performance is the actual volume at the
pumping temperature. Frequently, the information about volume
flows is expressed as volume at standard conditions, or 60
degrees F. These standard volumes must be converted to actual
volumes before pump performance calculations can be made.
Values for volume at standard conditions may be obtained from
material balance calculations or from actual plant samples as
measured by hydrometers.

These standard densities can be converted to density at actual

temperature, using the charts in the GPSA Manual, Figure
23-17.

Specific Volume at actual temperatur e

Expansion Factor =
Specific Volume at 60°F

Plant Data
When an operating pump is evaluated, the flow rate through the
pump is often determined from an orifice flowmeter. An orifice
flowmeter does not measure volume flowing directly. It measures
pressure drop across an orifice. The volume can then be
calculated from this pressure drop and the specific gravity of the
fluid. Standard charts or meter factors are used in the plant for
convenience. However, these charts and factors have been
calculated for one specific gravity. If the specific gravity at the time
of the reading is different, the flowmeter factor must be corrected.
In this case, ask an instrument specialist for help.

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Calculate Pump ∆P Required from Process Data

Procedure
First calculate the pump suction pressure by starting with the
pressure in the suction vessel, adding and subtracting the relevant
pressure differences from the suction vessel to the pump. In a
similar way, start with the pressure in the downstream vessel and
calculate all of the differences back to the pump discharge. Pump
delta P is the difference between the discharge and suction
pressures required. Delta P in psi can be converted to head in feet
using Eqn. (3).

This calculation is performed to specify a new pump or to check an

existing pump to see if it is suitable for an operation.

Frequently, different values may be obtained for one or more of the

input variables. This would be due to different operations, or to
pumping liquids with different specific gravities at different times. It
is important to use the combination of variables that will result in
the greatest head required for the pump.

Contingency
Factors
It is common to add extra amounts as contingency factors to the
calculated head and horsepower values. Once a motor-driven
pump is installed, you cannot increase the head that it will produce
without removing the pump from operation. The design flow rate
can be exceeded if there is enough difference between the head
produced and the head required: the pump can "run out on its
curve" to some degree. However, operation at higher flow rates
will, in general, increase the power required from the driver.

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Head Produced by an Operating Pump

It is frequently necessary to calculate the head produced by an

operating pump, to determine whether the pump is in good
mechanical condition.

Normally, there is a pressure gauge installed on the vessel feeding

the pump but not at the suction of the pump. There should be a
drain or vent connection at the suction side. A pressure gauge can
be installed there. If not, pump suction pressure must be
calculated from the suction vessel and drops and gains to the
pump. In this case, a pressure tap as close to the pump flange as
possible should be installed.

Discharge pressure can be read from a pressure gauge at the

pump discharge. It may be necessary to read the pressure further
downstream and to calculate the discharge pressure.

Once the delta P of the pump has been calculated, the head
produced by the pump can be determined using Eqn. (3). Be sure
to use actual specific gravity at the time of the test.

Note that it is necessary to have the best readings of suction and

discharge pressure possible. Therefore, calibrated gauges must
be substituted for the gauges installed for normal operation.

The calculated head can be compared to the head predicted by

the manufacturer's performance curve. If the difference between
these two values is greater than ±5, there is probably something
mechanically wrong with the pump or the system.

Net Positive Suction Head

It is important that the fluid flowing through the centrifugal pump

remain liquid at all points in the flow path. If even a small portion
of the liquid vaporizes, two problems result. First, the density of
the fluid in the pump decreases, and the pressure differential
developed will decrease. Second, the presence of vapor bubbles
in the pump can cause mechanical damage.

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Frequently, a centrifugal pump is handling a liquid that is at its

boiling point at the surface of the suction drum. This pressure is
also called the "bubble point." It is necessary during design to
ensure that the actual pressure remains above the bubble point, at
every point through the flow path. The mathematical term used to
cover this procedure is called Net Positive Suction Head or NPSH.

NPSH is the actual pressure of the liquid at the suction flange of

the pump minus the vapor pressure of the liquid. In other words, it
is the positive pressure above boiling pressure (vapor pressure).
This pressure difference is expressed in feet of the liquid being
pumped.

• NPSH = (Actual Pressure) − (Vapor Pressure) Eqn. (6)

− At pump inlet

− Calculated in feet of liquid

A positive NPSH is required by all centrifugal pumps. The reason

is as follows:

As the liquid enters the pump, it is subjected to rapid acceleration

by the spinning impeller. This acceleration results decreases the
static pressure of the liquid. Vaporization occurs if the static
pressure drops below the bubble point pressure.

NPSH Available vs.

NPSH Required

There are two kinds of NPSH. One is NPSH available (NPSHA),

which depends on the design of the system, particularly on the
elevation of the suction vessel above the pump and the friction
drop in the suction line. The other is NPSH required (NPSHR), the
amount of net positive head required by the design of the pump.

The design and operation of the suction system to a centrifugal

pump should be arranged so that NPSHA is always greater than
NPSHR. If it is not, cavitation damage to the pump or loss of head
and capacity may occur.

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The calculation procedure for NPSHA is shown in the following

example. Figure 12 accompanies the example.

NPSHR is a function of pump design and flow rate through the

pump. It is always shown on the manufacturer's performance
curve. For any pump, NPSHR increases as flow rate increases. A
typical relationship is shown in Figure 13. Note that the NPSHR
can rise steeply at flow rates higher than design. It is actually the
pressure drop from the pump inlet flange to the impeller vanes.

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2.31
NPSHA = [Ps + (h × 0.433 × S.G.) − ∆Pf − Pv ] ×
S.G.

Ps = Pressure in Vapor Space of Suction Vessel, psia

H = Height of Minimum Level Above Suction Flange of Pump, ft

∆PF = Friction Loss in Suction, Including Contraction, psi

Pv = Vapor Pressure of Pumped Fluid, psia

Note: Elevation head “h” is negative when the liquid level is below the
centerline of the pump.

Figure 12. Calculation Procedure for NPSHA

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Figure 13. Average NPSHR as a Function of Pump

Capacity at Constant Speed

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Cavitation

Cavitation occurs when the NPSH available is less than that

required. As the liquid flows through the pump and decreases in
pressure, small bubbles of vapor form in the suction passages. As
soon as these bubbles reach a higher pressure in the impeller,
they can recondense and collapse so quickly that a violent force is
imposed on the impeller. This makes a distinctive noise that
sounds like the rattling of stones in the pump. If cavitation
continues, pitting of the impeller can occur. The damage can be
severe. Cavitation can also occur when low volume flow causes
flow separation that vaporizes the liquid being pumped.

Cavitation damage is most likely with single-component liquids

such as water. Single-component liquids tend to recondense very
suddenly. Multi-component liquids recondense more gradually
and therefore cause less damage. However, even with multi-
component liquids, the presence of vapor in the impeller can
decrease the head or flow capacity.

Dissolved Gases
In addition to vaporization of the major component of the pumped
liquid, dissolved gases can also vaporize, for example, air in water
or nitrogen in hydrocarbons. As the pressure drops in the suction
passages, small bubbles of dissolved gas can form. However,
these gases do not condense and collapse suddenly. They
redissolve quite slowly. Because sudden collapse does not occur,
the impeller damage does not occur. Furthermore, since the
amount of gas released is small, the head produced by the pump
is usually not affected significantly. Therefore, when you calculate
the vapor pressure of a liquid to be pumped, you can usually
ignore these dissolved components such as air, nitrogen, and
hydrogen.

Sometimes, dissolved gases can even be beneficial. For example,

if a pump operating on water has severe cavitation, one remedy is
to inject a small amount of nitrogen or air into the pump suction.
This gas remains as bubbles as the pressure increases. The
bubbles cushion the imploding force of the condensing bubbles of
water vapor.

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Performance Curves

Analysis of an existing pump and prediction of its performance are

done by means of the manufacturers performance curves. For a
typical example of this curve see Figure 14. The most important
curve is head versus capacity. If you know the head that a pump
will produce, you can calculate the differential pressure that it will
develop.

Note that the head is shown for a range of impeller diameters.

Most centrifugal pumps can be fitted with impellers of different
diameter in the same casing. This flexibility is a way to adapt the
pump to a changed future service. Pumps are normally purchased
with an impeller somewhere near the middle of the possible size
range of impellers. Therefore, if a head increase is required by
changed operating conditions, a larger impeller can be installed.

Figure 14. Typical Performance Curve

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Curves do not normally show the effect of a change in speed

because most pumps are driven by constant-speed motors. If a
pump is purchased with a turbine driver, a family of speed curves
will be provided.

A curve of horsepower versus capacity is also shown for the range

of possible impeller diameters. Note that this horsepower is valid
only for the rated specific gravity. If the liquid being pumped has a
different specific gravity, the horsepower will have to be corrected.

The third major characteristic shown on the performance curves is

NPSH required versus flow rate. This characteristic is
independent of specific gravity, operating pressure, and impeller
diameter. Impeller diameter changes do not affect the geometry
on the suction side of the impeller.

A pump curve also shows the hydraulic efficiency of a pump for

various flow rates and impeller diameters. The point of maximum
efficiency is called the Best Efficiency Point. It should be
somewhere near the design operating point for the pump but
depends on how the pump was selected. Remember, pumps are
not generally custom designed!

Viscosity
Performance curves are based on tests performed with water.
When viscous fluids are pumped, head, capacity, and efficiency
are all reduced. This effect becomes significant at about 5 cSt.
Correction factors for the affected variables are shown in Figure
15. Viscosity corrections are significant in cold charge pump
services and start up of lube system in cold weather.

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IMPELLER DIAMETER CHANGES

Occasionally, a plant engineer will be called upon to specify a

change in the diameter of the impeller of an operating pump. The
change may be required to increase the head available, either to
expand the capacity of a plant or to use a pump in a new service.

Sometimes, the impeller diameter is reduced in order to decrease

the head. This may be done to reduce the power consumption, to
avoid overloading the motor, or to reduce the maximum discharge
pressure, to avoid overpressuring downstream equipment.

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1. Enter Chart at Design Capacity and Move Up To Design Head (For Multi-Stage
Pumps, Use Head Per Stage).
2. Move Horizontally To The Fluid Viscosity And Vertically To The Correction
Curves.

Figure 15. Centrifugal Pump Viscosity Correction Factors

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The relationships of impeller diameter to flow rate, head, and

horsepower are commonly called the affinity laws, as follows:

D2
Q2 = Q1 x
D1
2
D 
H2 = H1 x  2 
 D1 
3
D 
bhp2 = bhp1 x  2 
 D1 
where:

Q = Flow rate
H = Head
bhp = Brake horsepower
D = Diameter

Estimated performance changes can be made using these

relationships, but remember that they are approximate. It is better
to use the manufacturer's performance curves whenever possible.
See Figure 16.

Figure 16. Pump Performance with Change of

Impeller Diameter

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EFFECTS OF ADDING PUMPS IN SERIES OR IN PARALLEL

Characteristics of Pumps in Series

Sometimes two centrifugal pumps are connected in series, to

increase the pumping capability of an installation. The calculations
for this kind of operation are illustrated in Figure 17.

You can construct a single head/capacity curve for the two pumps
operating together. In the figure, the head/capacity curve for a
single pump is shown. When two pumps operate in series, the
heads produced are added. At any given capacity, the head can
be plotted. Using the new pump curve for two pumps and the
system resistance curve, you can determine the maximum
capacity for the new system as shown in the figure.

Figure 17. Characteristics of Pumps in Series

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Caution: Pumps in
Series
Two pumps in series will generate much more discharge pressure
than one pump alone. In some cases, this pressure might be
greater than the design pressure of the downstream piping or other
equipment. This condition must be checked before proceeding
with an installation of two or more pumps in series. It is important
to check the design pressure at the condition called "pump shutoff
pressure." Shutoff pressure is obtained when the downstream
control valve is closed and the pumps operate at zero capacity and
maximum head. The shutoff pressure is equal to the pressure in
the suction vessel plus the shutoff delta P of both pumps
combined. See Figure 18 and the example table beneath it. For
this example, the normal operating discharge pressure is
satisfactory because it is less than the design pressure. However,
at shutoff, the discharge pressure downstream of the second pump
would be greater than the equipment design pressure. This
situation is not allowed. One remedy is to install a safety valve at
the discharge of the second pump. as shown.

For Example:

Suction Discharge Design

Press Press Press*
psig ∆ P1 ∆ P2 psig psig
Norm 0 60 60 120 150
Max. (At Shutoff) 0 100 100 200 150

Figure 18. Pumps in Series

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Characteristics of Parallel Pumps

Another way to increase pumping capacity is to use two pumps in

parallel. This arrangement is illustrated in Figure 19. When two
pumps are installed in parallel, the head produced is the same as
for a single pump. However, at any given value for head, the
capacity for the two pumps is the addition of the capacity of each
pump. Thus, a new head/capacity curve can be drawn for the two
pumps in parallel. Again, using the new pump curve and the
system head curve, you can determine the maximum capacity.

Figure 19. Characteristics of Parallel Pumps

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Caution: Pumps in
Parallel
A problem that can occur with pumps operating in parallel is shown
in Figure 20. Two pumps are never exactly like. If two pumps are
installed in parallel, one pump may take more than half of the total
flow and the other pump less than half. The pump with the lower
flow rate may be operating below its minimum acceptable flow
rate. As the figure shows, the head produced by the two pumps
will be identical because they are connected to the same process.
If the head produced by pump B is lower than the head produced
by pump A, the situation shown in the figure will occur. Pump B
will decrease its flow rate until it can produce the same head as
Pump A.

This situation is most dangerous when one pump is driven by a

motor and the other by a turbine. It is impossible to set the two
speeds exactly equal, and the difference in speed will cause a
difference in head produced.

If two pumps are nominally identical and both driven by motors, the
two head curves can be assumed to be within 3% of each other. If
so, you can make the worst assumption, that is, the head of pump
B is 3% lower than the head of pump A. Then, using the system
operating conditions, plot the flow through both pumps. Make sure
that the lowest flow rate is not below the pump minimum allowable
flow rate.

Figure 20. Pumps in Parallel

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DESCRIBING CONTROL SYSTEMS

The most common control device for a centrifugal pump is a

control valve in the discharge line. This valve controls the amount
of liquid delivered to the process. This valve takes a pressure drop
equal to the difference between the pressure supplied by the pump
and the pressure required by the process.

A control valve is almost never used in the suction line of a pump.

A pressure drop in the suction line could cause vapor to form,
which is always harmful to centrifugal pump operation.

Variable speed is an alternative method for controlling centrifugal

pumps. The rotating speed is changed until the head generated
by the pump exactly equals the head required. If the driver is a
steam turbine or gas turbine, speed control is normally used. This
is the case in many pipeline and production services in Saudi
Aramco. It is always more efficient to control produced head than
to control required head by throttling.

It is also necessary to control the minimum flow through a

centrifugal pump. The minimum flow that can be tolerated is
normally 25 to 30% of design flow to the pump. However, this
value can be considerately higher for pumps with double suction
impellers (40 to 60% of design flow). Below this flow rate, unstable
operation can cause mechanical damage to the pump. If the flow
rate required by the process is less than this minimum value, some
excess flow is recycled from the discharge of the pump to the
suction vessel. Recycle directly to the pump suction is normally
not employed. This would increase the temperature of the
recirculating fluid, leading to possible vaporization.

Recycle can be controlled in the three ways shown in Figure 21:

• Manually controlled recycle

• Automatic recycle control with a control valve in the recycle

line.

• An automatic minimum flow controller installed in the pump

discharge line. It senses the net flow rate through the pump
and opens a path to the recycle line when flow drops below a
preset value.

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Methods

Figure 21. Protection Against Low-Flow

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Figure 22. Controls - Pumps in Parallel

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Typical Centrifugal Pump Installation

Figure 23 shows a typical installation. Its elements are as follows:

• Normal operating pump

• The spare pump. Pumps are normally spared so that the

process can operate continuously even if maintenance is
required on one pump.

• Suction line with block valve for isolation.

• Discharge line with block valve for isolation.

• Check valve or non-return valve in the discharge line. This

valve prevents reverse flow through the pump. Reverse flow
would cause the impeller to spin backwards, which would
damage the pump.

• Pressure gauge, PI, in the discharge line. This is to monitor

the performance of the pump.

• Flushing connection to the seal. Normally a liquid is circulated

through the seal to keep it clean and cool.

• Casing vent. Before a centrifugal pump is started, be sure to

vent vapors from the casing. A centrifugal pump containing
vapor will not develop differential pressure. The vent may be
on the casing itself or on the discharge line.

• Kickback line or recycle line. This is the line used to keep the
flow rate through the pump above the minimum value.

• Suction strainer. A suction strainer is installed upstream of the

pump. It prevents solid material from entering the pump. Solid
material could cause mechanical damage. Normally, the
suction strainer is in place only during startup and is removed
after an initial period that flushes construction debris from the
suction system.

Note: If the strainer is not to be removed, a differential

pressure gauge should be installed around the suction screen.

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Suction~ ~ Recycle (Kickback) ~ Discharge

to Suction Vessel

Flow Controller
Set for
Minimum
Pump Rate

Pl
Casing Vent Flush
to
Seal

MAIN
(Operating)

Drain

Vent to Suct. Vess.

Pl
(If Pump Self-Venting)

SPARE
(Standby)

Spool Piece for Suction Strainer

(Strainer Installed During Startup)

Figure 23. Typical Centrifugal Pump Installation

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Starting a
Centrifugal Pump
The normal method for starting a centrifugal pump is as follows.
Before startup, close both the discharge and suction block valves.
Close the casing vent. Open the valve in the line to the seal.

1. Open the suction block valve to allow liquid to enter the pump.

2. Open the casing vent to release trapped gases or vapors.

3. Close the casing vent.

4. Start the pump motor; observe the pressure rise in the

discharge line as indicated by the PI.

5. When the discharge pressure reaches the normal value, start

to open the discharge block valve.

6. Gradually open the discharge block valve until it is fully open.

If the discharge pressure starts to fall, close the block valve a
small amount to reestablish discharge pressure.

Optional Features
Cooling water to stuffing box. Sometimes cooling water is
provided to the seal housing to prevent vaporization of the liquid at
the surface of the seal.

Steam quench. If the pump fluid is very hot and also flammable,
steam is injected between the seal and the outside atmosphere. If
there is leakage through the seal, the steam quench cools and
dilutes the material. This prevents solidification of flammable
pump fluid, such as oil, and reduces the risk of fire.

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Casing vent line. The vapors will be vented to atmosphere through

a connection at the pump discharge if the material is not toxic or
hazardous. For toxic or hazardous materials, a pipe is installed to
vent the material back to the suction drum. This is especially
necessary if a pump is handling cold liquids. The vent line is left
open for five or ten minutes before the pump is started. During this
period, cold liquid circulates from the suction line through the pump
and back to the suction vessel. This cools the pump to operating
temperature before startup. If this step is not carried out,
vaporization can prevent successful starting of the pump.

Warm-up bypass. If the pump normally operates at high

temperature, it must be heated before startup to avoid sudden
heating and thermal shock. Gradual heating is done by circulating
pumped liquid backwards through the idle pump. A small (1-in.)
bypass around the check valve is used for this purpose.

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OPERATING PROBLEMS WITH CENTRIFUGAL PUMPS

A list of the most common process problems is given below. For a

more complete list, including mechanical problems, see GPSA Fig.
12-9.

Symptom Cause Cure

Pump loses suction High-point pockets Modify piping so flow is
when flow rate in suction line. continuously horizontal
increases. (Figure 24) or downward.
Low head, motor High viscosity. Heat fluid. Replace
overload. pump and motor. Run
two pumps in parallel.
Pump loses suction at Insufficient venting Vent casing before
start. of vapor. starting.
Cavitation noise or Insufficient NPSH. Raise suction liquid
loss of capacity at level, reduce rate, new
high flows. impeller.
Failure of mechanical Low flow of seal Adequate cooling and
seal; leakage. flush liquid. flush. Proper stuffing
Insufficient cooling box pressure and
of seals. temperature.

Figure 24. Suction Line Pockets

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Standards

Industry Standards
The applicable industry standards and the areas they cover are as
follows:

• API 610 - Centrifugal Pumps, most recent edition.

• ANSI B73.1 - Specifications for horizontal, end suction

centrifugal pumps for chemical process.

• ANSI B73.2 - Specifications for vertical in-line centrifugal

pumps for chemical process.

• NFPA-20 - Centrifugal fire water pumps.

Saudi Aramco
Standards
• Saudi Aramco Engineering Standard SAES-G-005

− Hydraulic Performance Criteria

− Casing Design Pressure Criteria

− Mechanical Seal Selection Guide

− Materials of Construction Guide

− Requirements For Suction and Discharge Piping

− Testing and Inspection Requirements

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WORK AID 1

Equations for Calculation of Head

• Pump ∆P = P2 - P1 (psi)

P1 = Suction pressure (psig or psia)

P2 = Discharge pressure (psig or psia)

P (psi) × 2.31
• Head ( feet ) =
S.G.

S.G. = Specific gravity relative to water

• ∆P = Head (ft) x 0.433 x S.G.

• Density of water at standard temperature (60°F)

S.G. = 1.0

Density = 8.33 lb/gal

= 62.4 lb/ft3

= 350 lb/barrel

= 2205 lb/metric ton

Equations for Calculating Power

• bhp =
(gpm ) × ∆P
1715 × (Pump Efficiency )
∆P = Differential Pr essure, psi

bhp × 0.746
• kW =
Motor Efficiency
kW = Operating Load of Motor, kilowatts

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WORK AID 2

Figure 25. Average NPSHR as a Function of

Pump Capacity at Constant Speed

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WORK AID 3

1. Enter Chart at Design Capacity and Move Up To Design Head (For

Multi-Stage Pumps, Use Head Per Stage).
2. Move Horizontally To The Fluid Viscosity And Vertically To The
Correction Curves.

Figure 26. Centrifugal Pump Viscosity Correction Factors

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WORK AID 4: AFFINITY LAWS

D
Q2 = Q1 x 2
D1

N
Q2 = Q1 x 2
N1
2
D 
H2 = H1 x  2 
 D1 
2
N 
H2 = H1 x  2 
 N1 
3
D 
bhp2 = bhp1 2 
 D1 
3
N 
bhp2 = bhp1 2 
 N1 

where:

Q = Flow Rate

H = Head Developed

bhp = Power Required

D = Impeller Diameter

N = Rotating Speed of Impeller

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WORK AID 5

Suction~ ~ Recycle (Kickback) ~ Discharge

to Suction Vessel

Flow Controller
Set for
Minimum
Pump Rate

Pl
Casing Vent Flush
to
Seal

MAIN
(Operating)

Drain

Vent to Suct. Vess.

Pl
(If Pump Self-Venting)

SPARE
(Standby)

Spool Piece for Suction Strainer

(Strainer Installed During Startup)

Figure 27. Typical Centrifugal Pump Installation

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WORK AID 6:

Relative
Distinguishing Usual Usual Maint-
Pump Type and Construction Orienta- No. of enance
Construction Style Characteristics tion Stages Require- Comments
ment
Capacity varies with head
CENTRIFUGAL Low to Medium Specific
Speed
Horizontal
Single Stage Overhung, Impeller Cantilevered Horiz. 1 Low Most Common Style Used
Process Type Beyond Bearings in Process Service
Two Stage Overhung, 2 Impellers Cantilevered Horiz. 2 Low For Heads Above Single
Process Type Beyond Bearings Capacity
Single Stage Impeller Impeller Between Horiz. 1 Low For High Flows to 1100
Between Bearings Bearings; Casing Feet Head
Radially or Axially Split
Slurry Large Flow Passages, Horiz. 1 High Low Speed; Adjustable
Erosion Control Features Axial Clearance
Canned Pump and Motor Horiz. 1 Low Low-Head Capacity Limits
Enclosed in Pressure for Models Used in
Shell; no Stuffing Box Chemical Services
Multistage, Horizontally Nozzles Usually in Bottom Horiz. Multi Low For Moderate
Split Casing Half of Casing Temperature-Pressure
Ratings
Multistage Barrel Type Outer Casing Confines Horiz. Multi Low For High Temperature-
Inner Stack of Impellers Pressure Ratings
Vertical
Single Stage Process Vertical Orientation Vert. 1 Low Style Used Primarily to
Type Exploit Low NPSH
Requirement
Multistage Process Many Stages, Low Vert. Multi Medium High Head Capability,
Type Head/Stage Low NPSH Requirement
In-Line Arranged for In-Line Vert. 1 Low Allows Low Cost
Installation, Like a Valve Installation, Simplified
Piping Systems
High Speed Speeds to 23,000 rpm, Vert. 1 Medium Attractive Cost for High
Head to 5800 Feet Head/Low Flow
Sump Casing immersed in Vert. 1 Low Low Cost Installation
Sump for Installation
Convenience and
Priming Ease
Multistage Deep Well Very Long Shafts Vert. Multi Medium Water Well Service with
Driver at Grade

Figure 28. Comparison of Pump Types and Construction Styles:

General Characteristics

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WORK AID 7

Pump Type and Capacity Max. Max P2 Typical Max Effic- Solids Max.
Construction Style GPM Head Psi NPSH/ Viscos iency Toler- Pumping
Ft Req Ft. SSU % ance Temp. °F

CENTRIFUGAL

Horizontal

Single Stage Overhung 15-5,000 800 600 6-20 3000 20-80 Mod. 850
High

Two Stage Overhung 15-1,200 1400 600 6-22 2000 20-75 Mod. 850
High

Single Stage Impeller 15-40,000 1100 980 6-25 3000 30-90 Mod. 400-500
Between Bearings High

Slurry 1000 400 600 5-25 3000 20-80 High 850

Canned 1-20,000 5000 10,000 6-20 2000 20-70 Low 1000

Multistage, Horiz. Split 20-11,000 5500 3000 6-20 2000 65-90 Medium 400-500

Multistage, Barrel Type 20-9,000 5500 6000 6-20 2000 40-75 Medium 850

Vertical

Single Stage Process 20-10,000 800 600 1-20 3000 20-85 Medium 650
Type

Multistage 20-80,000 6000 700 1-20 2000 25-90 Medium 500

In-Line 20-12,000 700 500 6-20 2000 20-80 Medium 500

High Speed 5-400 5800 2000 4-40 500 10-65 Low 500

Sump 10-700 200 200 1-22 2000 40-75 Mod.

High

Multistage Deep Well 5-400 6000 2000 1-20 2000 30-75 Medium 400

Note: These data are typical only. Many exceptional cases exist.

Figure 29. Comparison of Pump Types and Construction Styles:

Performance Characteristics

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WORK AID 8: SELECTION CHARTS

Figure 30. Selection Chart

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WORK AID 9

Trouble: Possible Causes: Trouble: Possible Causes:

1. Failure to deliver a. Wrong direction of rotation. 6. Vibration: a. Starved suction.
liquid: b. Pump not primed. (1) Gas or vapor in liquid
c. Suction line not filled with liquid. (2) Available NPSH not sufficient
d. Air or vapor pocket in suction line. (3) Inlet to suction line not sufficiently
e. Inlet to suction pipe not sufficiently submerged
submerged. (4) Gas or vapor pockets in suction line
f. Available NPSH not sufficient. b. Misalignment.
g. Pump not up to rated speed. c. Worn or loose bearings.
h. Total head required greater than d. Rotor out of balance.
head for which pump is capable of (1) Impeller plugged
delivering. (2) Impeller damaged
e. Shaft bent.
f. Improper location of control valve in
discharge line.
g. Foundation not rigid.
2. Pump does not a. Wrong direction of rotation. 7. Stuffing boxes a. Packing too tight.
deliver rated b. Suction line not filled with liquid. overheat: b. Packing not lubricated.
capacity: c. Air or vapor pocket in suction line. c. Wrong grade of packing.
d. Air leaks in suction line or stuffing d. Insufficient cooling water to jackets.
boxes. e. Box improperly packed.
e. Inlet to suction pipe not sufficiently
submerged.
f. Available NPSH not sufficient.
g. Pump not up to rated speed.
h. Total head greater than head for
which pump designed.
j. Foot valve too small.
k. Foot valve clogged with trash.
m. Viscosity of liquid greater than that
which pump designed
n. Mechanical defects ...
(1) Wearing rings worn
(2) Impeller damaged
(3) Internal leakage resulting from
defective gaskets.
4. Pump loses liquid a. Suction line not filled with liquid. 8. Bearings a. Oil level too low.
after starting: b. Air leaks in suction line or stuffing overheat: b. Improper or poor grade of oil.
boxes. c. Dirt in bearings
c. Gas or vapor in liquid. d. Dirt in oil.
d. Air or vapor pockets in suction line. e. Moisture in oil.
e. Inlet to suction line not sufficient. f. Oil cooler clogged or scaled.
f. Available NPSH not sufficient. g. Failure of oiling system.
g. Liquid seal piping to lantern ring h. Insufficient cooling water circulation.
plugged. j Bearings too tight.
h. Lantern ring not properly located in k. Oil seals too close fit on shaft.
stuffing box. m. Misalignment.
5. Pump overloads a. Speed too high. 9. Bearings wear a. Misalignment.
driver: b. Total head lower than rated head. rapidly: b. Shaft bent.
c. Either or both the specific gravity c. Vibration.
and viscosity of liquid different from d. Excessive thrust resulting from
that for which pump is rated. mechanical failure inside the pump.
d. Mechanical defects ... e. Lack of lubrication.
(1) Misalignment f. Bearings improperly installed.
(2) Shaft bent g. Dirt in bearings.
(3) Rotating element dragging h. Moisture in oil.
(4) Packing too tight j. Excessive cooling of bearings.

Figure 31. Checklist for Centrifugal Pump Troubles and Causes

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WORK AID 10: PUMP HEAD AND HORSEPOWER

EL=100 Ft. 160

psig
Column
C-1
50
psig Drum
NLL D-1

LLL
EL=20 Ft.

3 Ft.

E-1 E-2

Grade
600 gpm
S.G. = 0.72
Pump Eff. = 0.69

Figure 32. Exercise 10 Figure

Line Lengths:
Suction - 100 equivalent ft
Discharge - 500 equivalent ft

Pressure drops:
Suction line - 0.2 psi/100 ft
Discharge line - 2.2 psi/100 ft
E-1 - 22 psi
E-2 - 17 psi
Control valve - 20 psi minimum
orifice - 1 psi

Calculate pump head and brake horsepower (required).

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Solution:

1. Calculate P2 Discharge pressure (Max)

a. Vessel pressure 160 psig

b. Static head

(100-3) ft x 0.433 x 0.72 + 30.2 psi

c. Friction pressure drops

E-2 + 17 psi
E-1 + 22 psi
Control valve + 20
Flow orifice + 1 psi
2 .2
Line = 500 × + 11 psi
100
P2 = 261.2 psig

2. Calculate P1, suction pressure (Min.)

a. Vessel pressure 50 psig

b. Static head

(20-3) ft x 0.433 x 0.72 +5.3 psi

c. Friction drops

Line = 100 x 0.2 -0.2

P1 = 55.1 psig

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Problem CP-1, page 3

3. Calculate ∆P

∆P = P2 - P1

= 261.2 - 55.1

= 206.1 psi

4. Calculate head required

 2.31 
Head = ∆P 
 S.G 

 2.31 
= 206.1 
 0.72 

= 661 ft

5. Calculate brake horsepower

gpm × ∆P
bhp =
1715 × Efficiency

600 × 206.1
=
1715 × 0.69

= 104.5 hp

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Problem CP-1, page 4

6. Check pump head

Total head = ∆ Vessel pressure

+ ∆ Elevation

+ Total friction drop

a. ∆ Vessel pressure

(160 − 50 ) × 2.31 = 353 ft

0.72

b. ∆ Elevation

100 − 20 = 80 ft

c. Total friction drop = Suction Drop + Discharge Drop

  500   2.31
= 0.2 +  2.2 ×  + 22 + 17 + 20 + 1
  100   0.72

= 228.5 ft

Total Head Required = 661.5 ft

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GLOSSARY

Actual Volume The volume of a given mass of liquid at actual

temperature in a process.

Brake Horsepower The quantity of power required to turn the shaft of a

pump. The power loading on the shaft between the
pump and its driver.

Best Efficiency Point The point on the map of head, capacity, and impeller
(BEP) diameter where hydraulic efficiency is
maximum.

Bearings The parts that support the rotating shaft.

Casing The outer housing of a centrifugal pump. The

pressure-containing component.

Circuit A section of plant containing a pump, piping, and

heat exchangers. A flow path between two points.

Cavitation The implosion of vapor bubbles in a liquid inside a

pump on the impeller vanes. Potentially damaging.

Delta P (∆P) The pressure difference from pump suction to pump

discharge.

Diffuser An area of some pumps containing vanes where

velocity energy is converted to pressure. Used
instead of a volute in some pumps.

Driver A motor or turbine which provides the power for the

pump.

Discharge Pump outlet.

Design Point The specified condition of volume and head for

selection of a pump. Also called "rated point."

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Eye The center of the impeller where liquid enters the

impeller.

Efficiency The hydraulic (pressure) energy added to the liquid,

divided by the power input to the shaft.

Flushing A small flow of liquid which keeps solids away from

the seal and also cools the seal.

gpm Flow rate in gallons per minute.

Head The energy added to a liquid by a pump, ft-lb

force/lb. mass. Also referred to as simply "feet."

Hydrometer A float type device that measures specific gravity of a

liquid.

Impeller The rotating element of a centrifugal pump.

Kickback A recycle stream that increases the flow rate through

a pump, independent of process requirements.

Net Positive Suction Actual pressure at the pump suction minus vapor

Head Available pressure of the liquid. The amount of pressure drop

(NPSH)A that can occur before vaporization begins.

Orifice Flowmeter A device for measuring fluid flow rate in a pipe. It

consists of a restriction orifice in the pipe, pressure
taps upstream and downstream of the orifice, and a
gauge to measure the ∆P.

Performance Curve Graphs that show head produced, power required,

NPSH required, and efficiency; all as functions of
flow rate.

Pitting Mechanical damage; pits or holes in a metal surface.

Recycle A return flow of some liquid from the discharge side

to the suction side. Also called "kickback."

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Stage A section of a pump containing one impeller and one

diffuser. Pumps may have one or more stages.

Suction Pump inlet.

Shutoff The condition when a pump is rotating but flow is

blocked at the discharge. (i.e., pump is acting as a
mixer.)

Shutoff Head The head produced by a pump when the discharge is

blocked and flow is zero. Usually maximum head
produced.

Standard Volume The volume of a given mass of liquid at 60°F.

Specific Volume The volume of one pound of liquid.

Specific Gravity The density of a liquid divided by the density of water

at 60°F.

Safety Valve A valve that protects a pipe or vessel from

overpressure. It opens automatically at a set
pressure.

Seal A device that prevents leakage at the point where the

rotating shaft enters the casing.

Volute The annular area between the impeller and casing.

The place where liquid velocity energy is converted
to pressure.

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REFERENCES

• Saudi Aramco Standards

− SAES-G-005 Centrifugal Pumps

• Exxon Basic Practices

− BP10-1-1 Heavy Duty Centrifugal Pumps

− BP10-1-2 Medium Duty Centrifugal Pumps

• Industry Standards

− API Standard 610, American Petroleum Institute

Other References

• Engineering Data Book, Gas Processors Suppliers Assn., Vol. 1, Section 12

− Pumps and Hydraulic Turbines

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