How does the quantity of water delivered by a centrifugal pump change?

• A. It varies inversely with pump speed
• B. It is constant regardless of speed
• C. It varies directly as the pump speed
• D. It is affected by the water temperature

Answer: (C)

The quantity of water delivered by a centrifugal pump is influenced by the pump speed, which is often referred to in the context of pump performance curves. When the pump speed increases, the kinetic energy imparted to the water increases, leading to a higher flow rate. This direct relationship means that, as you increase the speed of the pump, the pump can move more water in a given unit of time, thus increasing the quantity of water delivered.

In practical terms, if you double the speed of the pump, you can expect approximately double the flow rate, assuming other factors such as system resistance and impeller design remain constant. This principle is essential for understanding how centrifugal pumps operate within various applications, highlighting the significance of adjusting pump speeds for desired flow rates in systems such as water distribution, irrigation, and industrial processes.

This understanding directly informs the design and operation of pumping systems, where pump control and efficiency are vital for reliable performance and energy management.