10 TYPES OF HORIZONTAL CENTRIFUGAL PUMPS: WHICH ONE FITS YOUR APPLICATION?
When it comes to fluid handling in industrial, commercial, and municipal settings, horizontal centrifugal pumps are among the most widely used and versatile pumping solutions. Known for their reliability, efficiency, and ease of maintenance, these pumps are designed with the impeller mounted horizontally, typically on a shaft supported by bearings at both ends. But did you know there are several types of horizontal centrifugal pumps, each engineered for specific applications?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the main types of horizontal centrifugal pumps, their unique features, common applications of horizontal centrifugal pumps in industry, and key factors to consider when choosing the right one for your needs — including insights into horizontal centrifugal pumps suppliers, manufacturers, especially from China, and essential buying tips.
Main Types of Horizontal Centrifugal Pumps
Here’s a breakdown of the most common types of horizontal centrifugal pumps, each suited for distinct operational requirements:
Horizontal End Suction Centrifugal Pump
One of the most popular and simplest forms of horizontal centrifugal pumps is the horizontal end suction centrifugal pump. In this design, fluid enters the pump from one side (the end) and is discharged radially out of the top or side.
Best for: Water supply, HVAC systems, chemical transfer, irrigation
Advantages: Compact, easy to install, cost-effective
Common in: Building services, light industrial use
🔧 Ideal for general-purpose liquid transfer where space saving and simplicity are priorities.
Horizontal Multistage Centrifugal Pump
When higher pressure is required, a single-stage pump may not suffice. That’s where the horizontal multistage centrifugal pump comes in. It contains multiple impellers arranged in series within the same casing, allowing for significantly increased discharge pressure.
Best for: Boiler feed water, high-pressure cleaning, reverse osmosis, water boosting
Also known as: Horizontal multistage pump
Price factor: Horizontal multistage centrifugal pump price varies based on number of stages, materials, and brand
🚀 Used in applications requiring high head (pressure) while maintaining a reasonable flow rate.
Horizontal Split Case Centrifugal Pump
The horizontal split case centrifugal pump features a casing that is split horizontally, allowing for easy access to the internal components like the impeller and shaft without disconnecting piping.
Best for: Fire protection systems, municipal water supply, industrial process water
Also called: Horizontal split case water pump or fire pump
Common variant: Horizontal fire pump
🧯 Favored in critical applications due to ease of maintenance and robust construction.
Horizontal Inline Centrifugal Pump
As the name suggests, the horizontal inline centrifugal pump is designed to be installed directly in the pipeline with inlet and outlet connections on the same level. This makes it ideal for inline installations where space is limited.
Best for: HVAC systems, chilled water circulation, pressure boosting
Also called: Close-coupled or in-line water pumps
🏢 Perfect for integration into existing piping systems with minimal disruption.
Horizontal Booster Pump
A horizontal booster pump is used to increase the pressure of an existing fluid flow. These are often employed in water supply systems where additional pressure is needed, especially in multi-story buildings or long pipelines.
Best for: Water pressure boosting, municipal distribution, irrigation
Commonly integrated with: Storage tanks or PRVs (pressure reducing valves)
💡 Essential in systems where consistent pressure is critical over long distances or elevations.
Horizontal Slurry Pump
When dealing with abrasive or solid-laden fluids, such as mining slurries or wastewater with debris, a horizontal slurry pump is the go-to choice. These pumps are built with heavy-duty materials to withstand wear and tear.
Best for: Mining, dredging, mineral processing, wastewater treatment
Material options: High-chrome, rubber-lined, or hardened alloys
⛏️ Engineered to handle tough, abrasive slurries with high solids content.
Horizontal Submersible Pump
While most horizontal centrifugal pumps operate above ground, there are also horizontal submersible pumps designed to function while submerged in the fluid they are pumping — though true submersibles are usually vertical. However, some horizontal designs can operate in partially submerged or sump-like conditions.
Best for: Sewage, drainage, stormwater
Related type: Horizontal sump pump
🏗️ Used in environments where the pump must handle liquids from below ground level.
Horizontal Sump Pump
A horizontal sump pump is used to remove accumulated water or liquids from sumps, pits, or basins. While many sump pumps are vertical, horizontal configurations are available for specific layouts.
Best for: Basement drainage, industrial sumps, construction sites
Function: Prevents flooding and removes unwanted accumulated fluids
🚰 Critical for flood prevention and maintaining dry work or storage environments
Horizontal Water Pump (General Purpose)
This is a broad category that includes various horizontal centrifugal pumps used primarily for water transfer — whether for potable water, irrigation, or industrial processes.
Best for: Agriculture, domestic supply, light industry
Also overlaps with: Horizontal inline, end suction, or booster pumps
💧 A versatile solution for all basic water movement needs.
Horizontal Fire Pump
Specifically designed for fire protection systems, the horizontal fire pump delivers high-pressure water to sprinkler systems or fire hoses. Often part of a building’s fire safety infrastructure.
Best for: Firefighting systems, commercial buildings, industrial plants
Certification: Must meet NFPA or local fire code standards
🚒 Mandatory in many commercial and industrial facilities for safety compliance.
Applications of Horizontal Centrifugal Pumps in Industry
Horizontal centrifugal pumps are integral to a wide range of industries due to their flexibility, efficiency, and ability to handle various fluids. Some common industrial applications include:
- Water & Wastewater Treatment:Transporting clean or contaminated water, sludge, and chemicals.
- Oil & Gas:Moving crude oil, refined products, and fuel.
- Chemical Processing:Transferring corrosive or hazardous liquids with specialized materials.
- Power Generation:Feeding water into boilers or cooling systems.
- Mining & Minerals:Handling slurry and abrasive fluids.
- Agriculture & Irrigation:Distributing water across fields or livestock areas.
- Building Services:HVAC systems, domestic water supply, fire protection.
Each of these sectors may require a specific type of horizontal centrifugal pump, customized for flow rate, pressure, temperature, and fluid compatibility.
How to Choose the Right Type of Horizontal Centrifugal Pump
Selecting the correct horizontal centrifugal pump depends on several factors:
- Flow Rate & Head Requirements– Determine how much fluid you need to move and at what pressure.
- Type of Fluid– Consider viscosity, temperature, and whether the liquid contains solids or chemicals.
- Installation Space– Choose between horizontal or vertical orientation based on layout constraints.
- Maintenance Access– Some designs like split-case pumps allow easier servicing.
- Budget & Cost of Ownership– Including factors like horizontal multistage centrifugal pump price, energy efficiency, and durability.
- Compliance & Standards– Especially for fire pumps or food-grade applications.
Where to Buy Horizontal Centrifugal Pumps?
When sourcing horizontal centrifugal pumps, it’s crucial to work with reliable suppliers and manufacturers. Here are a few tips:
- China-based Manufacturers:Many leading horizontal centrifugal pumps manufacturers are based in China, offering competitive pricing without compromising on quality. Look for ISO-certified factories.
- Local & International Suppliers:Choose suppliers with strong after-sales support, technical expertise, and warranty policies.
- Buying Tips:
- Always request performance curves and material specifications.
- Ensure the pump matches your system’s pressure and flow requirements.
- Consider energy efficiency and total cost of ownership, not just the upfront horizontal multistage centrifugal pump price.
- Verify certifications if used in regulated industries (e.g., fire safety, food processing).
Conclusion: Finding the Right Horizontal Centrifugal Pump for Your Needs
With so many types of horizontal centrifugal pumps available — from horizontal end suction centrifugal pumps for simple water transfer, to horizontal multistage centrifugal pumps for high-pressure applications, and specialized variants like horizontal slurry pumps, sump pumps, and fire pumps — choosing the right one depends on your exact operational needs.
Whether you’re in manufacturing, water treatment, agriculture, or building services, understanding the strengths and limitations of each horizontal pump type will help ensure efficiency, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.
For sourcing, consider trusted horizontal centrifugal pumps suppliers and manufacturers, especially those from China with a proven track record. And when making your purchase, keep in mind key buying tips such as matching specifications, evaluating total lifecycle costs, and ensuring compliance with industry standards.
VIRHEOS
References & Further Reading
- Centrifugal Pump – Wikipedia-Systematically introduces the definition, working principle, structural composition, performance characteristics, application fields, and related engineering knowledge of centrifugal pumps.
- Types of Centrifugal Pumps – IQS Directory-Provide a list of centrifugal pump manufacturers, product information, technical specifications, procurement guidelines, and related industry resources
📌 This blog post provides a detailed overview of the various types of horizontal centrifugal pumps, their applications, and buying considerations. For more technical guidance or to request a quote, contact our pump experts at Virheos.com.