Difference Between Centrifugal Pumps and Submersible Pumps

In modern water systems, pumps are one of the most vital components for buildings, utilities, and industrial applications. Among the many options available, centrifugal pumps and submersible pumps are the most commonly used.

The difference between centrifugal pumps and submersible pumps lies in their installation position, working principles, and application types. Although both function to transfer fluids, they are designed with different technical characteristics to suit specific water system requirements.

The Role of Pumps in Water Systems and Industry

In general, in water distribution systems, pumps serve to:

• Transfer water from one point to another

• Maintain stable flow pressure

• Support operational processes such as cooling, sanitation, and drainage

For this reason, selecting the right type of pump directly impacts energy efficiency, system reliability, and equipment lifespan. Therefore, understanding the difference between centrifugal pumps and submersible pumps is an important first step.

What Is a Centrifugal Pump?

Basically, a centrifugal pump operates by utilizing centrifugal force generated by a rotating impeller. Fluid enters through the suction inlet, is accelerated by the impeller, and then discharged at a higher pressure.

In most applications, this pump operates outside the fluid and supports clean water and circulation systems.

How a Centrifugal Pump Works

1. First, the motor rotates the impeller

2. Water enters the center of the impeller (eye)

3. Centrifugal force pushes the water toward the outer edge of the impeller

4. Pressure increases and water exits through the discharge pipe

For example, EBARA FSA operates as an end suction volute pump for building and light-to-medium industrial applications.

Key Features of EBARA FSA

• End suction design with volute casing
• Back Pull Out (BPO) system for easy maintenance without dismantling piping
• Working pressure up to 16 bar
• Flow capacity up to 22 m³/min
• Cast iron casing and bronze impeller
• Suitable for clean water applications

Applications of EBARA FSA

• Building water supply systems

• HVAC and air conditioning systems

• Sprinkler and fire support systems

• Swimming pools

• General industrial applications

For this reason, this pump works best when the water source is above ground and requires stable pressurized distribution.

What Is a Submersible Pump?

In contrast, a submersible pump operates while fully submerged in fluid. The motor and pump are enclosed in a sealed unit, making it safe for underwater operation.

As a result, this type of pump commonly supports drainage, wastewater, sump pits, and dirty water applications.

How a Submersible Pump Works

1. The pump is placed directly into the fluid
2. The motor drives the impeller
3. Water is pushed upward through the discharge pipe
4. No priming is required because the pump remains submerge

For example, EBARA DL operates as a submersible sump pump for drainage and wastewater applications.

Key Features of EBARA DL

Based on the official brochure:

• Non-clog semi-open impeller design

• Prevents blockage caused by fibrous materials

• Double mechanical seals with oil lubrication

• Motor equipped with thermal overload protection

• Stainless steel fasteners

• Suitable for sewage and wastewater applications

Applications of EBARA DL

• Building and basement drainage

• Domestic and industrial wastewater

• Sump pits

• Sewage systems

As a result, this pump operates reliably while submerged and handles fluids containing solid particles.

Difference Between Centrifugal Pumps and Submersible Pumps

Overall, the main differences between the two pump types are summarized as follows:

Advantages and Disadvantages of Centrifugal Pumps

Advantages

• Simple design and easy maintenance

• Suitable for clean water systems

• Relatively lower installation cost

• Easily integrated with building piping systems

Disadvantages

• Not suitable for dirty or wastewater

• Limited suction depth performance

• Requires initial priming

Advantages and Disadvantages of Submersible Pumps

Advantages

• No priming required

• Effective for submerged applications

• Suitable for fluids containing solids

• Space-saving installation

Disadvantages

• Maintenance requires pump lifting

• Operates in harsher environments

• Higher initial investment cost

Applications in Buildings and Industrial Facilities

In practice, different applications require different pump types.

Centrifugal pumps such as EBARA FSA are more suitable for:

• Clean water distribution

• HVAC systems

• Sprinkler and building utilities

On the other hand, submersible pumps such as EBARA DL are more ideal for:

• Basement drainage

• Domestic wastewater

• Dirty water and sewage systems

For this reason, pump selection should consider fluid type, water source depth, and operating conditions.

Tips for Choosing the Right Pump

Before making a final decision, consider the following:

• Type of fluid (clean water or wastewater)

• Required capacity and pressure

• Installation location

• Ease of maintenance

• Compliance with technical specifications

Therefore, technical consultation helps ensure optimal and long-term pump performance.

The difference between centrifugal pumps and submersible pumps lies in their working principles, installation positions, and applications. Centrifugal pumps excel in clean water systems and pressure distribution, while submersible pumps are designed for submerged conditions and fluids containing solids.

In conclusion, by understanding the characteristics of each pump type, users can accurately select pumps such as EBARA FSA or EBARA DL to meet the specific needs of building and industrial systems.
Our team is ready to help provide technical solutions tailored to your project requirements. Feel free to contact us for a consultation.