What is the result of having a worn impeller on a centrifugal pump regarding energy efficiency?

What is the result of having a worn impeller on a centrifugal pump regarding energy efficiency?

• A. Efficiency increases
• B. Efficiency is unchanged
• C. Efficiency decreases
• D. Efficiency varies depending on the load

Answer: (C)

A worn impeller in a centrifugal pump can significantly impact its energy efficiency. As the impeller degrades, it loses its ability to effectively convert the rotational energy from the motor into the fluid kinetic energy required for pumping. This loss occurs because the worn surfaces can create turbulence and reduce the effective area for fluid movement, leading to increased hydraulic losses. Because of this reduced performance, the pump must work harder to achieve the same flow rates, consuming more energy per unit of water moved. Consequently, the overall efficiency of the pump decreases, resulting in higher operational costs and less effective performance. The fluid dynamics involved in a centrifugal pump rely heavily on the proper shape and integrity of the impeller; any wear disrupts these dynamics, leading to an inefficient system. Hence, the conclusion that efficiency decreases with a worn impeller is accurate and reflects the fundamental principles of pump operation.

A worn impeller in a centrifugal pump can significantly impact its energy efficiency. As the impeller degrades, it loses its ability to effectively convert the rotational energy from the motor into the fluid kinetic energy required for pumping. This loss occurs because the worn surfaces can create turbulence and reduce the effective area for fluid movement, leading to increased hydraulic losses.

Because of this reduced performance, the pump must work harder to achieve the same flow rates, consuming more energy per unit of water moved. Consequently, the overall efficiency of the pump decreases, resulting in higher operational costs and less effective performance. The fluid dynamics involved in a centrifugal pump rely heavily on the proper shape and integrity of the impeller; any wear disrupts these dynamics, leading to an inefficient system. Hence, the conclusion that efficiency decreases with a worn impeller is accurate and reflects the fundamental principles of pump operation.