In pump terminology, what is the volute designed to do?

• A. Convert kinetic energy to flow energy
• B. Increase pressure dramatically
• C. Seal the pump
• D. Filter the liquid

Answer: (A)

The volute is the spiral chamber that surrounds the impeller and collects the fluid as it is discharged. Its job is to take the high-velocity flow leaving the impeller and convert that kinetic energy into static pressure (flow energy) as the fluid moves into the expanding volute. As the cross-section widens, the fluid slows down and its velocity head is transformed into pressure head, yielding a higher-pressure, smoother discharge. It isn’t meant to seal the pump or to filter the liquid; those functions are handled by seals and filters, not the volute. This energy conversion from velocity to pressure is the key role of the volute, which is why that option best describes its purpose.