Which type of pump is commonly used in industrial processes?

Centrifugal and positive displacement pumps are both widely used in industrial processes due to their ability to handle a variety of fluids and flow requirements.

Centrifugal pumps operate by converting rotational energy, typically from an impeller, into the kinetic energy of fluid, which allows them to move large volumes of liquids efficiently. They are particularly effective for applications that require consistent flow rates and are typically used for transporting fluids with low viscosities.

On the other hand, positive displacement pumps work by trapping a fixed amount of fluid and forcing it into the discharge pipe. This makes them suitable for handling thicker fluids or those that require higher pressure. They can provide a steady flow regardless of the pressure conditions, making them effective in various applications, including those that involve viscous materials.

The combination of these two types of pumps provides industrial processes with flexibility and reliability when dealing with different types of fluids, flow rates, and applications. This is why the correct answer includes both centrifugal and positive displacement pumps as common choices in industrial settings.