Complete Technical GuideCentrifugal Pump

A centrifugal pump uses the centrifugal force generated by a rotor (impeller) to convert mechanical energy into kinetic and pressure energy, moving low-viscosity fluids such as water, solvents and light chemicals.

Fluid enters through the rotor center and is radially accelerated by the vanes. High velocity at the rotor exit is converted into pressure by the volute (spiral casing). The pressure difference moves fluid through the system.

It is the graph relating flow (Q) to head (H), efficiency and power. It is essential for selecting the ideal operating point — the BEP — where the pump operates with maximum efficiency and minimum wear.

Low-viscosity fluids (up to ~100 cP): industrial water, solvents, light chemicals, juices, milk, effluents, cooling water and fire fighting. For viscous fluids, gear pumps are more suitable.

A normalized pump follows standardized dimensions ensuring interchangeability between manufacturers — same base, flanges and shaft. The FB Bombas FBCN series is horizontally normalized with back pull-out for simplified maintenance without disconnecting piping.

When the fluid has low viscosity (<100 cP), when you need high flow rates, when pressure is moderate and when operating cost is priority. For viscous fluids or precise dosing, gear is more suitable.

Yes. The FBCN series is normalized and replaces centrifugal pumps from any manufacturer — KSB, Schneider, Dancor, Ebara, Sulzer, OMEL, Thebe, Wilo, Famac — with guaranteed dimensional interchangeability. Same base, same connections, direct installation. Brazilian manufacturer since 1944, CRCC Petrobras, API 610, with back pull-out for fast maintenance.

The difference is in the electric motor. Single-phase uses 220V supply, suitable for powers up to ~5 hp where three-phase is unavailable. Three-phase operates at 220/380/440V, required for higher powers and industrial applications. The FBCN series supports both configurations.

Impeller — accelerates fluid; volute — converts velocity to pressure; shaft — transmits motor torque; mechanical seal or packing — sealing; bearings — support the shaft; and wear rings — replaceable parts maintaining controlled clearance between impeller and casing.

It is the most common industrial configuration, with the shaft positioned horizontally. The FB Bombas FBCN series is horizontal, ASME B73.1 normalized, with back pull-out construction. Easy maintenance, installation and alignment. Ideal for process, industrial water and fire fighting.

For corrosive, food-grade or pharmaceutical fluids. FBCN is manufactured in cast iron, AISI 316, AISI 304, Duplex and special alloys. Choice depends on chemical compatibility with the pumped fluid and temperature conditions.

Depends on flow, head, density and viscosity. Reference: 5 hp handles ~30 m³/h; 10 hp ~60 m³/h; 15 hp ~100 m³/h — varying by model. Select by Q×H curve and add reserve: 20% up to 2 hp, 15% up to 20 hp, 10% above 20 hp (FBCN manual).

It is the total energy the pump provides to the fluid, in meters of liquid column. Includes elevation difference, friction losses in piping and delivery point pressure. FBCN series reaches up to 138 m, with Q×H curves available for each of the 53 models (43 standard + 10 large capacity).

Ensure available NPSH exceeds required NPSH (minimum 0.5 m margin); reduce suction line losses; position pump close to and below reservoir level; and avoid operating far above or below BEP. Cavitation damages the impeller and reduces service life.