**Abstract:** This paper provides a comprehensive overview of centrifugal pumps, covering their structure, working principle, characteristic curves, and practical application in industrial settings. It also discusses how to configure pumps efficiently for safe, reliable, and economical operation. The importance of understanding pump performance and maintenance is emphasized, as it directly impacts the effectiveness and sustainability of water supply systems. **Keywords:** Centrifugal pump, construction, principle, performance, operation Centrifugal pumps are widely used in water supply systems and various industries due to their versatility and efficiency. They can be classified based on their working principles into three main categories: vane pumps, positive displacement pumps, and other types. In our plant, single-stage double-suction centrifugal pumps are commonly used. These are a type of vane pump where the impeller rotates at high speed, imparting kinetic energy to the fluid through centrifugal force, enabling the pump to move the liquid effectively. This mechanism gives them their name—centrifugal pumps. Due to their critical role in water distribution, centrifugal pumps are essential in many sectors of the economy. If we consider the water pipeline network as the body's vascular system, then the centrifugal pump acts like the heart, pumping water throughout the system. Given that these pumps consume significant amounts of power, it is crucial to select and operate them efficiently to ensure both cost-effectiveness and system reliability. **First, the basic structure of a centrifugal pump consists of six key components:** 1. **Impeller**: The core component responsible for transferring mechanical energy to the fluid. It must undergo a static balance test before assembly. Its inner and outer surfaces need to be smooth to minimize friction losses. 2. **Pump Casing (Volute)**: Acts as the main housing of the pump, providing structural support and connecting to the bearing bracket. 3. **Pump Shaft**: Connects the motor to the impeller via a coupling, transmitting torque and serving as a key element in mechanical energy transfer. 4. **Bearings**: Support the pump shaft and come in two types: rolling and sliding bearings. Proper lubrication is essential—too much or too little oil can lead to overheating or mechanical failure. During operation, the bearing temperature should remain around 60°C, with a maximum of 85°C. 5. **Seal Ring (Leakage Ring)**: Located between the impeller and the casing, it helps reduce internal leakage by maintaining a small gap (typically 0.25–1.10 mm) to improve efficiency and prolong the life of the pump. 6. **Stuffing Box**: Composed of packing, a water seal ring, and a gland, it prevents leakage and maintains vacuum inside the pump. The packing should be replaced every 600 hours of operation to ensure optimal performance. **Second, the over-current components of a centrifugal pump include the suction chamber, impeller, and pressure chamber.** The impeller is the central part, responsible for increasing the fluid’s energy. Impellers can be categorized based on flow direction: radial, mixed, or axial. They can also be classified as single-suction or double-suction, and further divided into closed, open, or semi-open designs. **Third, the working principle of a centrifugal pump relies on centrifugal force.** Before starting, the pump and suction pipe must be filled with water to create a vacuum. As the impeller rotates, it accelerates the fluid, which is then thrown outward by centrifugal force. This creates a low-pressure area at the center, drawing more water into the pump. If the pump is not primed properly, cavitation may occur, causing damage and reducing efficiency. Centrifugal pumps can be classified in several ways, including by the number of impellers (single-stage or multi-stage), the type of impeller (open, semi-open, or closed), and the operating pressure (low, medium, or high). Additionally, they can be arranged horizontally or vertically depending on the application. **Fourth, the performance of a centrifugal pump is best understood through its characteristic curves.** These curves illustrate the relationship between flow rate (Q), head (H), power (N), and efficiency (η). There are three main curves: - **Flow vs. Head Curve**: Shows how head decreases as flow increases. Pumps with lower specific speeds tend to have a "hump" curve, while those with higher speeds have flatter or steeper curves. - **Flow vs. Power Curve**: Indicates that power increases with flow. At zero flow, the power is still non-zero due to mechanical losses, leading to potential overheating if left running for too long. - **Flow vs. Efficiency Curve**: Resembles a hill shape, with peak efficiency occurring at a specific flow rate. Operating near this point ensures optimal performance. **Fifth, the rational configuration of pumps is vital for safe, reliable, and economical operation.** Understanding the structure, principle, and performance of pumps allows for better selection and optimization. In our factory, ensuring efficient water supply involves proper pump configuration, regular maintenance, and advanced monitoring systems. 1. **Importance of Rational Pump Configuration**: Our plant supplies water to the city, with a daily capacity of up to 900,000 tons. With increasing demand and stricter water quality standards, we have implemented measures such as optimizing pump combinations, upgrading equipment, and installing modern monitoring systems to ensure consistent and high-quality water supply. 2. **Reliability of Safe Operation**: To maintain reliability, we follow strict maintenance schedules, including annual major overhauls, monthly inspections, and daily checks. ISO9002 standards ensure quality management, and staff training guarantees proper operation. 3. **Economic Operation of Pumps**: Cost control is essential, involving electricity, chemicals, and labor. By managing pressure levels and using optimized pump combinations, we reduce energy consumption and maintain stable water supply. For example, adjusting pump operations during day and night ensures that pressure remains within safe limits, avoiding damage to infrastructure and improving customer satisfaction. With ongoing technological advancements, modern pumps are increasingly automated, requiring operators to be well-trained and vigilant. Through years of experience and study, we have learned to apply theoretical knowledge practically, ensuring efficient water distribution and optimal pump performance. By leveraging each pump's unique characteristics, we achieve maximum output with minimal energy use, ensuring a safe, high-quality, and cost-effective water supply.

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