Why is a centrifugal pump unsuitable for gathering service?

A centrifugal pump is unsuitable for gathering service primarily because it cannot effectively source water if the line is exposed. In gathering applications, especially those that may involve draw-down situations or scenarios with low suction head, the inability of a centrifugal pump to self-prime can lead to operational failures. Specifically, if the suction line is not filled with water, a centrifugal pump cannot generate the necessary pressure to move the fluid from the source, resulting in the pump being unable to function properly.

This limitation is tied to the principles of operation for centrifugal pumps, which rely on a constant pressure head to operate efficiently. When the line is exposed and air enters, it disrupts this pressure, preventing the pump from drawing water from the source. Unlike positive displacement pumps, which can handle variations in suction pressure and are often used in gathering services, centrifugal pumps require a different operational setup that does not lend itself well to environments where water sources may be variable.

In contrast to the other options, while manual priming may be necessary in some cases, this is not the primary issue that makes centrifugal pumps unsuitable for gathering service. Similarly, size and power concerns are not the core reason, as centrifugal pumps can be designed in various sizes for different applications, and power dynamics depend on the specific