Question:
How does viscosity affect centrifugal pump performance?
Answer:
Pump users are sometimes confronted with the problem of applying an existing centrifugal pump to viscous liquids. Published pump performance curves are normally based on liquids with a viscosity of one centistoke (cSt). When this viscosity is increased, the performance of centrifugal pumps is affected in the following ways:
- A marked increase in power consumption
- Reduction in head
- Reduction in capacity.
The resulting impact of viscosity can be:
- An undersized pump which will not produce the desired flow and/or head; and
- Overloading of the electric motor.
Article courtesy of Kelair Pumps Australia – When Pump Knowledge Matters.
For more information phone 1300 789 466 or visit www.kelairpumps.com.au.
