3 Common Types of Centrifugal Pumps Explained

Understanding the types of centrifugal pumps is essential when choosing the right system for an industrial, commercial, or agricultural operation. Each type is built for a specific setup, pressure range, and installation environment.

Centrifugal pumps move fluids by converting rotational energy from a motor into kinetic energy. This simple concept, known as the centrifugal pump working principle, makes them a popular choice for continuous fluid handling.

Here are three widely used types of centrifugal pumps, along with where they work best.

Horizontal Pumps

Horizontal centrifugal pumps have a motor and pump shaft arranged in a straight line, mounted on a baseplate. These pumps are easy to install, maintain, and access for repairs. Their stable design makes them well-suited for systems that need high flow at consistent pressure.

Common Applications:

●       Industrial manufacturing — Moving chemicals, oils, and processing fluids

●       Water treatment plants — Transferring treated or raw water

●       Boiler feed operations — Circulating high-temperature water in closed systems

If you're managing a facility where space is not a constraint and maintenance accessibility matters, horizontal pumps are often the preferred choice.

At Alliance Industrial Products, we supply horizontal centrifugal pumps built for high endurance in challenging industrial settings.

Submersible Pumps

Submersible centrifugal pumps are designed to operate fully submerged in the fluid they are pumping. These sealed units are corrosion-resistant and eliminate the need for priming. Their ability to function quietly and reliably in submerged conditions makes them ideal for wastewater and deep well operations.

Common Applications:

●       Agriculture — Drawing groundwater for irrigation from deep borewells

●       Sewage systems — Handling solids and wastewater in municipal setups

●       Construction — Dewatering sites and flooded foundations

For operations that need a pump in direct contact with liquid, this is a smart, low-noise, and energy-efficient option.

Looking for durable submersible pumps that perform under pressure? Alliance Industrial Products offers models that are field-tested and ready for long-term use.

Vertical Pumps

Vertical centrifugal pumps are used where floor space is limited or when the motor must be positioned above the pump. These pumps are often installed through the top of a tank or pit and draw fluid upward. Their design allows for deep suction without taking up horizontal room.

Common Applications:

●       Cooling towers — Circulating large volumes of water

●       Fuel and chemical transfer — In refineries or chemical plants

●       Underground sump applications — Removing collected drainage or stormwater

Vertical pumps are efficient where depth and gravity flow need to be considered in system design.

Final Thoughts

While there are many variations, these three are among the most widely used 3 types of centrifugal pumps across industries. The best choice depends on your installation layout, fluid type, and pressure needs.

Understanding the basic centrifugal pump working principle is the first step. Selecting the right type is the next. For quality-built pumps and technical guidance, Alliance Industrial Products is your go-to source for reliable, application-focused solutions.