What type of pump is typically used for bilge pumps?

Centrifugal pumps are the most commonly used type of pump for bilge pumping applications in marine environments. This preference is due to their efficiency and effectiveness in moving large volumes of water quickly, which is essential in bilge management to prevent flooding and maintain vessel stability.

Centrifugal pumps work by converting rotational energy from a motor into energy in the fluid being pumped. The fluid is drawn into the pump, accelerated outward by a rotating impeller, and then discharged through the pump's outlet. This design allows them to handle water efficiently, making them ideal for the bilge, where water levels can fluctuate rapidly and require immediate attention.

Other types of pumps, such as diaphragm, gear, and peristaltic pumps, have specific applications where they excel but may not be suitable for bilge pumping due to factors like the volume of water displacement needed or the nature of their operation. Diaphragm pumps, for example, are better for applications requiring the handling of slurries or viscous fluids rather than the quick discharge of large volumes of water typical in bilge situations. Thus, centrifugal pumps are the go-to choice for reliable and efficient bilge water removal.