Pump selection for supplying water to hydraulic turbines Which pump is commonly and successfully used for lifting and supplying water to turbines (e.g., for hydro-testing or auxiliary supply lines)?

Introduction / Context:
Where water must be delivered continuously to a turbine system—such as in auxiliary feeds, testing loops, or small-head transfers—the pump should be capable of steady flow, simple control, and reliable operation over a range of discharges. Centrifugal pumps are the industry workhorse in such applications.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Clean or lightly silted water service.
• Moderate heads and continuous duty.
• Preference for smooth, non-pulsating flow to prevent hydraulic transients.

Concept / Approach:
Centrifugal pumps impart kinetic energy to water with a rotating impeller and then convert it to pressure head in the volute or diffuser. They provide a nearly steady discharge, are easy to throttle, and can be configured in series/parallel to meet head and flow requirements typical of turbine feed or test circuits.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify the duty: continuous supply with controllable flow.Match pump type: centrifugal pumps excel at continuous, moderate-head duties.Verify suitability: wide availability, straightforward maintenance, and low pulsation.Conclude centrifugal pump is the preferred, commonly used solution.

Verification / Alternative check:
Plant standards and vendor catalogs list centrifugal units for turbine auxiliary services; reciprocating pumps are used when very high heads at low flows are required, but they introduce pulsation and complexity.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Reciprocating pumps deliver pulsating flow and are maintenance intensive. Jet and air-lift pumps are specialized; peristaltic pumps handle slurries/chemicals at low flow and head, not turbine feeds.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming any pump that moves water is suitable; ignoring flow steadiness and controllability requirements.

Final Answer:
Centrifugal pump