When it comes to pumps, people often get stuck choosing between a peripheral pump and centrifugal pump. While both move water, they do so in very different ways. To help you decide, let’s compare them side by side looking at how they work, their uses, and their advantages.

Peripheral Pump vs Centrifugal Pump: 

Peripheral Pump

What is a peripheral pump?

A peripheral pump also called a regenerative pump. peripheral pump  is designed to deliver high pressure at low flow rates. It uses a special impeller with small paddles along the edge that recirculate water multiple times, building pressure with each pass.

Peripheral Pump Working Principle

Water enters the pump casing and passes through an impeller with small radial paddles around its periphery. The water circulates multiple times inside the casing, each pass increasing the pressure. This regenerative effect makes it effective for boosting pressure in small-scale systems.

Peripheral Pump Parts

• Impeller – fitted with small paddles to recirculate water

• Pump casing – a concentric channel where water circulates

• Shaft and bearings – transfer motion to the impeller

• Seals – prevent leakage
  

Peripheral Pump Uses

• Domestic water supply

• Boiler feed systems

• Washing and spraying applications

• Pressure boosting for small systems
  

Peripheral Pumps Advantages

• Compact size, easy to install

• Delivers high pressure even with low water volume

• Affordable option for domestic setups
  

Centrifugal Pump

What is a Centrifugal Pump?

A centrifugal pump is the most widely used type of pump, designed to move large volumes of water or fluid at lower pressures.

Centrifugal Pump Working Principle

Water enters the center (eye) of the impeller. As the impeller spins, centrifugal force pushes the water outward into the casing, converting velocity into flow and pressure.

Centrifugal Pump Parts

• Impeller – spins to create flow

• Casing – directs the fluid to the outlet

• Shaft and bearings – support the impeller

• Mechanical seal – prevents leaks
  

Centrifugal Pump Uses

• Petrochemical and oil industries

• Food and beverage processing

• Irrigation and agriculture

• Sprinkler systems and HVAC

• Large clean water pumping

Centrifugal Pump Advantages

• Handles high flow rates efficiently

• Works with a wide range of fluids (water, oil, chemicals)

• Simple design and easy maintenance

• Available in multiple types (horizontal, vertical, electric, multi-stage)

• Energy efficient in large-scale operations

Peripheral Pump vs Centrifugal Pump: The Main Comparison

In short:

• Choose a peripheral water pump if you need high pressure for small jobs.

• Consider a centrifugal pump if you want to move a lot of fluid at once.

Conclusion

Both pumps have their place. The peripheral pump is suitable for homes and smaller systems where pressure is the priority. The centrifugal pump is better for industrial and agricultural setups where moving large volumes of liquid is crucial most.

Your choice between a peripheral pump and a centrifugal pump depends on whether you need pressure or flow.

FAQS:

Q1. What does peripheral pump mean?
A. The term refers to the impeller’s design, which has small paddles around the periphery. These paddles recirculate water within the casing, gradually building pressure.

Q2. What is a peripheral pump used for?
A. Peripheral pumps are used for supplying household water, feeding boilers, washing, spraying systems, and boosting water pressure in small setups.

Q3. Are centrifugal pumps suitable for chemical transfer?

A. Yes, many centrifugal pumps are made from corrosion-resistant materials, making them suitable for handling chemicals, oils, and other industrial fluids.

Q4. Which pump lasts longer?

A. With proper care, both can last for years. However, centrifugal pumps generally have a longer lifespan in industrial settings, while peripheral pumps are more suited for light-duty, short-term use.

Q5. Is a peripheral pump better than a centrifugal pump for home use?

A. Yes. A peripheral pump provides higher pressure, making it more effective for boosting household water supply compared to a centrifugal pump.

Q6. What are the three main types of centrifugal pumps?
A. The three main types are radial flow pumps, axial flow pumps, and mixed flow pumps, each designed for different flow and pressure needs.

Q7. Which type of pump is the most commonly used?
A. The centrifugal pump is the most widely used type of pump worldwide, thanks to its versatility, efficiency, and ability to handle large volumes.

Q8. Are centrifugal pumps AC or DC?
A. Most centrifugal pumps run on AC power, often in industrial and household systems. However, smaller versions for portable or battery-powered uses can run on DC.