What type of pump is commonly used in water distribution systems?

Centrifugal pumps are commonly used in water distribution systems due to their high efficiency in moving large volumes of water. These pumps work by converting rotational energy from a motor into kinetic energy in the fluid by using an impeller. As the impeller spins, it creates a pressure difference that draws water in and pushes it out through the discharge. This design is particularly advantageous for applications involving pressurized water systems where consistent flow and pressure are crucial.

In water distribution, centrifugal pumps are favored because they can handle a variety of operational conditions, including varying flow rates and head requirements, without significantly affecting performance. Their ability to operate efficiently over a wide range of capacities makes them versatile and suitable for a range of distribution scenarios, from municipal supply to irrigation systems.

While other types of pumps like piston and diaphragm pumps can be used in specific applications, they generally have limitations in terms of flow rate and are more suited for smaller-scale operations or specific types of fluids. Submersible pumps are often used in well applications or where the pump needs to be immersed in the fluid, but they are not as common for large-scale distribution systems compared to centrifugal pumps.