A device commonly
used for transporting fluids around a
chemical plant. Centrifugal pumps usually
have 6–12 blades rotating inside a fixed
circular casing. As the blades rotate, the
fluid is impelled out of the pump along a
pipe. Centrifugal pumps do not produce
high pressures but they have the advantage
of being relatively cheap because they are
simple in design, have no valves, and work
at high speeds. In addition they are not
damaged if a blockage develops. Compare
displacement pump.
