What is the purpose of a diffuser in a centrifugal pump?

The purpose of a diffuser in a centrifugal pump is to convert kinetic energy into pressure energy. In a centrifugal pump, the impeller increases the velocity of the fluid, which results in higher kinetic energy. The diffuser, which is located just after the impeller, helps to slow down the fluid's velocity as it passes through it. This reduction in velocity causes the kinetic energy of the fluid to be transformed into pressure energy, allowing the fluid to be efficiently delivered through the discharge piping system at the appropriate pressure.

This process is critical for the pump’s operation, as the conversion of kinetic energy into pressure energy is what enables the pump to move fluids effectively against the system's resistance. The design and function of the diffuser are integral to maintaining the performance and efficiency of the pump by preventing turbulence and optimizing flow.

Other choices do not align with the primary function of a diffuser within a centrifugal pump. For instance, while increasing the flow rate is important, it is more directly related to the operation of the impeller rather than the diffuser. Measuring fluid levels pertains to level sensors, not to the diffuser's role in energy conversion. Heating the fluid is also unrelated to the function of a diffuser, as diffusers are not designed for thermal processing.