A vertical centrifugal pump is just one of the many configurations of centrifugal pumps that is vertically installed with the motor above the fluid surface. Vertical centrifugal pumps can have one or several impellers which attach to and rotate with the shaft to provide the energy that pushes the fluid through the pump and pressurize the fluid to move through the piping system. A vertical centrifugal pump is usually quick to install, easy to repair and does not require a lot of maintenance.
Applications
A vertical centrifugal pump, like most other configurations of centrifugal pumps, is ideal for pumping liquids with lower viscosity and where high flow rates are required. They also have numerous residential, industrial, municipal and commercial applications. The pumps can be used for surface treatment industries where they can be used to transfer and return pumping in galvanizing, hot zinc, pickling and oxidization processes. Some vertical centrifugal pumps have more than one impeller and these are often employed in applications that require higher head or pressure.
Vertical centrifugal pumps made of stainless steel are ideal for pumping liquids at higher temperatures, up to 1000 C. Other pumps made from more exotic alloys such as polyvinylidene fluoride have superior mechanical and chemical features and they are ideal for pumping hot acids, while those made from polypropropylene are suitable for most types of industrial chemicals.
Materials
A vertical centrifugal pump can be manufactured from a wide range of materials including various plastics, cast iron, stamped stainless steel for light applications, bronzes, stainless steels, exotic alloys, and special plastics for more abrasive, hygienic, corrosive and other complex applications.
The piping connections on the pumps are available with standard pipe threads for smaller sizes and flanges for larger sizes. Special connections are also available from various pump manufacturers for specific applications. The usual drivers for the pumps are A.C. induction motors, although some are driven by D.C. power or other power transmission appliances like gear boxes and engines.
How it Works
A vertical centrifugal pump is vertically installed with the motor always above the fluid that is being pumped. In this way, it does not require any mechanical seal, which is usually a source for leakage complications. The pump is also designed to be dry running safe.
The simple design of the vertical centrifugal pump and the absence of mechanical seals or bearings on the pump mean that it is normally maintenance free. Depending on the material used to manufacture the pump, it can be used to pump liquids with solids.
