What material are the impeller and moving parts of a pump typically made of?

The impeller and moving parts of a pump are typically made from bronze or nonferrous metals due to their excellent resistance to corrosion and wear. These materials can handle the abrasive and potentially corrosive fluids that pumps often deal with, which is crucial in ensuring durability and longevity. Nonferrous metals, including various alloys, provide the necessary strength while being less susceptible to rust compared to ferrous metals. This makes them an ideal choice for maintaining efficiency and reliability in pump operation, especially in demanding environments.

Other materials, such as aluminum, while lightweight and resistant to corrosion, may not provide sufficient strength or durability for certain pump applications. Plastic can be suitable for specific lightweight applications and corrosive environments but generally lacks the strength and impact resistance required for moving parts in most pumps. Steel, on the other hand, while strong, is prone to corrosion unless specially treated, which could compromise its effectiveness in some pumping applications. Therefore, the selection of bronze or nonferrous metals optimally balances strength, corrosion resistance, and performance.