Bench Dude F.

Avelino BSME -3A

MODULE 2: SPECIFIC SPEED, PUMP AFFINITY LAWS, AND NPSH

MODULE 2.1 – Specific Speed of Pumps

Problem Set

Problem 2.1.1
A centrifugal pump, powered by a direct-drive induction motor, is needed to discharge 150 gal/min
against a total head of 180 ft when running at fully loaded speed of 3500 rpm.
a) What is the specific speed of the pump?
b) What type of pump should be selected?

Problem 2.1.2 (ME Oct 1995)

It is desired to deliver 5m3/s at a head of 640 m in a single stage pump having a specific speed not to
exceed 40. If the rotational speed is not to exceed 1352 rpm, how many stages are required? (Hint: The
SI units of discharge and head indicates that the specific speed described in this problem is in SI units.)
Problem 2.1.3
A two-stage centrifugal pump delivers 12,000 kg/hr of water against 75 m head at 3000 rpm. What is the
specific speed of the pump?

Problem 2.1.4
A double suction centrifugal pump delivers 3000 liters per second of water at a head of 15 m and
running at 1200 rpm. Calculate the specific speed of the pump and recommend the type of pump for this
application.
Problem 2.1.5
Calculate the impeller diameter of the centrifugal pump that requires 15m head to deliver water if the
pump speed is 1800 rpm.

Problem 2.1.6
A 30-hp centrifugal pump is used to deliver water at 70 cfm. Calculate the number of stages needed if
each impeller develops a 38 ft head.
Problem 2.1.7 (ME Oct 2004)
A 6-stage centrifugal pump discharges 1200 gpm of water at 1500 rpm with a pressure drop of 600 psi.
Find the specific speed.

Problem 2.1.8 (ME Apr 2005)

A 6-stage centrifugal pump discharges 1500 gpm of water at 1750 rpm with pressure drop of 700 psi.
Find the specific speed.