The Hydraulic Institute standardizes rotodynamic pump types, definitions and nomenclature. Pumps may be classified by operating principle, hydraulic design, construction, orientation, and application. Understanding the pump types and their differences support pump selection, performance evaluation, applicable standards, and pump system analysis.
Rotodynamic pumps impart energy to the pumped fluid by means of a rotating impeller, propeller or rotor and include centrifugal (radial flow), and mixed flow and axial flow pumps. The description for each rotodynamic pump type, and the related industry standard are summarized on this page.
For descriptions on positive displacement pumps refer to the Positive displacement types section.
Last updated on August 31, 2026