Why use multi-stage centrifugal pumps? State the principal reason for employing multi-stage centrifugal pumps (impellers in series). Choose the best answer.
Mechanical Engineering
Hydraulic Machines
Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
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ATo obtain very high discharge only
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BTo develop high heads by adding head of successive stages
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CTo pump viscous fluids efficiently at low speed
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DAll of these
Answer
Correct Answer: To develop high heads by adding head of successive stages
Explanation
Concept
- In series arrangement, each impeller contributes head; the total head is the sum of heads developed by all stages, at approximately the same discharge.
ResultMulti-stage pumps are therefore chosen primarily for high head duties (e.g., boiler feed pumps).
Common pitfallHigh discharge is typically increased by parallel pumps or larger single-stage impellers, not by series staging.
Final AnswerTo produce high heads.