What is a characteristic feature of centrifugal boost pumps?

Centrifugal boost pumps are designed to enhance fuel flow in various systems, particularly in aircraft fuel systems. One of their defining characteristics is their use of an impeller, which is a rotating device that transfers energy from the motor to the fluid, thereby forcing the fuel through the pump. This mechanism allows for efficient fuel delivery at a high flow rate, making them well-suited for applications that require constant fuel flow under varying conditions.

The design and operation of centrifugal pumps are primarily electric, relying on electrical power sources to drive the impeller, which differentiates them from other types of pumps that might operate without electricity. Additionally, centrifugal pumps are widely used and not considered the least common type; rather, they are prevalent in many applications due to their efficiency and reliability. Manual operation is also not a characteristic of centrifugal boost pumps, as they are typically designed for automatic operation once installed in a system. The use of an impeller is therefore fundamental to their function, marking them as a key component in modern fuel systems.