Centrifugal pumps must furnish not less than what percentage of flow?

Centrifugal pumps are designed to provide a certain percentage of flow relative to their rated capacity in order to ensure proper system functionality. The requirement for centrifugal pumps to furnish a flow of not less than 65% of their rated capacity is based on several key operational aspects.

First, maintaining a minimum flow percentage ensures that the pump operates within its designed efficiency range, which helps prevent issues such as overheating and operational instability. If a pump consistently operates below this minimum flow percentage, it risks cavitation, which can cause significant damage to the impeller and other pump components.

Additionally, in many systems, especially those involving fire protection and water-based systems, it's essential for the pump to deliver adequate flow rates to meet design specifications and ensure effective operation during peak demand scenarios. A flow of at least 65% of its rated capacity helps satisfy this requirement, ensuring that the system can handle necessary demands without compromising performance or safety.

This minimum flow standard is recognized in various standards and guidelines within the industry, highlighting the importance of having a reliable operational range for centrifugal pumps.