Three-dimensional quasi-unsteady flow simulation in a centrifugal pump: Comparison with experimental results

Abstract

This work aims at assessing the velocity field, pressure, and radial thrust distribution inside a centrifugal pump (ENSIVAL-MORET MP 250.200.400 pump, diameter = 408 mm, five blades, specific speed = 32) at various flowrates. A three-dimensional flow simulation is first presented for the isolated impeller. A three-dimensional quasi-unsteady flow simulation of the impeller—volute assembly is then performed for several impeller blades and volute tongue relative positions. The computed pressure fields enable to evaluate the radial thrust on the pump shaft and to study its variations with the flowrates. The computed pressure fluctuations match the measures obtained from 10 unsteady pressure sensors placed on the impeller shroud and volute, so that the validity of the computed radial thrust is acknowledged.