What is the minimum continuous flow that must be guaranteed to a centrifugal pump? And how is it related with the viscosity?
Hydraulic Institute addresses the general concept regarding the “..minimum and maximum flow, at which they should be operated continuously of for an extended period of time..”. The Standard continues to say that “..Operation of pumps at reduced capacities may lead to the following problems: temperature buildup, excessive radial thrust, suction recirculation, discharge recirculation, insufficient NPSH..” Regarding viscosity, the usual pumping limitations of centrifugal pumps apply. Since pump energy level is an important consideration for the minimum flow, as the HI states, the corrections for flow, head, efficiency and power thus affect the MCSF.
