What is the primary purpose of a centrifugal pump in firefighting?

The primary purpose of a centrifugal pump in firefighting is to increase water pressure. In fire suppression operations, it is essential to deliver water at a sufficient pressure to effectively combat fires and reach the desired height and distance. A centrifugal pump functions by converting mechanical energy into hydraulic energy, which allows it to draw water from a source and expel it at high pressure. This pressure is crucial for ensuring that water can penetrate the fire and extinguish it efficiently.

While generating electrical power, storing water, and cooling equipment have their own roles in firefighting operations, they are not the primary function of a centrifugal pump. The pump's design and operation are specifically geared toward enhancing water pressure, making it a vital component in any fire apparatus used for fighting fires.