What component of a centrifugal feedwater pump imparts centrifugal force to the liquid?

The impeller is the component of a centrifugal feedwater pump that imparts centrifugal force to the liquid. As the impeller rotates, it converts the mechanical energy from the motor into kinetic energy of the fluid, which results in the movement of water outward from the center of the impeller. This motion generates centrifugal force, pushing the liquid towards the pump's outlet.

The design of the impeller is crucial, as its blades are shaped to accelerate the water efficiently. The faster the impeller spins, the greater the velocity of the liquid that it imparts during its rotation. This increased velocity is essential for achieving the necessary flow rates in steam systems.

Other components like the diffuser, volute, and bearings play different roles in the pump's operation. The diffuser is responsible for converting the kinetic energy of the fluid into pressure, while the volute helps to direct the flow and manage pressure. Bearings provide support and reduce friction for the rotating parts but do not contribute to the movement of the liquid itself. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify the importance of the impeller in the mechanics of a centrifugal pump.