How Viscosity Affects Centrifugal Pump Performance (and When to Derate)
Viscosity reduces a centrifugal pump's flow, head, and efficiency. This article explains the governing equations, shows how to apply viscosity correction factors, and tells…
PumpCalcs reference library
Author: Joaquimma Anna
78 resources
Methods · worked examples · references
Pumps in Series vs Parallel: How Curves, Flow, and Head Combine
Understanding how centrifugal pump performance changes when units are placed in series or parallel is essential for reliable system design. This article explains the…
How to Calculate Friction Loss in Pipe (With Worked Examples)
Friction loss quantifies the pressure drop caused by fluid friction in a pipe and is essential for accurate pump selection and system design. This…
Pump Commissioning and Start-Up: A Step-by-Step Procedure
This article provides a standards‑based, step‑by‑step guide for pump commissioning and start‑up. It covers NPSH calculations, performance verification, safety considerations, and practical tips to…
How to Read a Pump Performance Curve
A pump performance curve graphically relates flow rate to head, power, efficiency, and NPSH required. Learning to read these curves is essential for selecting…
Self-Priming Pumps: How They Work and When You Need One
Self‑priming pumps can lift liquid from a dry suction condition without external boosters. This article explains the hydraulic principle, key design equations, typical performance…
Fire Pump Basics: Ratings, Curves, and What NFPA 20 Requires
A fire pump must deliver the flow and pressure demanded by the fire‑protection system while meeting NFPA 20’s stringent reliability and testing standards. This article…
Air Entrainment vs Cavitation: How to Tell the Difference
Air entrainment and cavitation are distinct phenomena that can both degrade pump performance, yet they have different causes and signatures. This article explains the…
Motor Enclosures, Insulation Class, and IP Ratings for Pump Applications
A thorough guide to motor enclosures, insulation classes, and IP ratings that affect pump reliability and safety. Learn the standards, key facts, selection methods,…
Water Hammer: How to Calculate Surge Pressure and Control It
Water hammer is a rapid pressure surge caused by sudden changes in fluid velocity. This article explains the Joukowsky equation, walks through US and…