What is the main purpose of the volute casing in a centrifugal pump?

What is the main purpose of the volute casing in a centrifugal pump?

• A. To increase pump speed
• B. To convert velocity head into pressure head
• C. To filter out impurities
• D. To reduce noise during operation

Answer: (B)

The volute casing in a centrifugal pump plays a crucial role in the pump's functionality by converting kinetic energy into pressure energy. As fluid exits the impeller, it possesses high velocity and low pressure. The volute casing is designed to create a gradual expansion that allows the fluid's velocity to decrease. This drop in velocity leads to an increase in pressure, effectively converting velocity head (the energy related to the fluid's motion) into pressure head (the energy available to do work, such as moving the fluid through pipes). This conversion is essential for the efficient operation of the pump, as it ensures that the fluid can be transported through the necessary system at the required pressure levels. The design and shape of the volute directly influence the efficiency and performance of the pump, making it a critical component in achieving the desired flow rates and pressure outputs.

The volute casing in a centrifugal pump plays a crucial role in the pump's functionality by converting kinetic energy into pressure energy. As fluid exits the impeller, it possesses high velocity and low pressure. The volute casing is designed to create a gradual expansion that allows the fluid's velocity to decrease. This drop in velocity leads to an increase in pressure, effectively converting velocity head (the energy related to the fluid's motion) into pressure head (the energy available to do work, such as moving the fluid through pipes).

This conversion is essential for the efficient operation of the pump, as it ensures that the fluid can be transported through the necessary system at the required pressure levels. The design and shape of the volute directly influence the efficiency and performance of the pump, making it a critical component in achieving the desired flow rates and pressure outputs.