What type of impellers are most centrifugal pumps in the Navy equipped with?

Centrifugal pumps used in the Navy are primarily equipped with closed impellers. A closed impeller consists of two parallel disks that form a closed space between them, which allows fluid to move through the impeller effectively. This design is particularly efficient for a range of fluid flows and pressures, which is crucial in naval applications where reliability and performance are paramount.

The closed impeller design minimizes turbulence and enhances the pump's capacity to move fluids at higher pressures while maintaining efficiency. This is particularly relevant in the operational contexts faced by naval vessels, where maintaining consistent performance is vital for the functioning of various systems.

In contrast, open impellers are more suitable for handling fluids with larger solids or particulates, but they tend to be less efficient and can lead to more wear over time. Semi-open impellers can handle some solids but may not provide the same efficiency as closed impellers. Variable impellers are often associated with systems requiring adjustable performance characteristics, which is not typical for standard centrifugal pumps in naval operations.