Energy dissipation and time–frequency analysis of characteristics induced by vortex breakdown in an axial flow pump

Abstract

Vortex breakdown in a pump sump is a complex and negative factor for the pump. Different from my previous study that focused mainly on the development process of vortex and its damage to the pump, this paper is from a new perspective that studies the energy dissipation and time–frequency characteristics induced by vortex breakdown. The tested data of pressure and velocity in the process of vortex breakdown were obtained by the model. Considering the gas–liquid two-phase flow of the vortices, a new numerical simulation approach is conducted and verified. The results show that the development rules of vortex breakdown reveal that the breakdown is initiated near the blade. The residual disturbance in the flow field continues to propagate after vortex breakdown, inducing unstable flow inside the runner and causing additional energy dissipation. The time–frequency characteristics induced by vortex breakdown indicated that the runner rotation speed has a significant effect on the vortex breakdown. The frequency of vortex breakdown is relatively small under high-speed rotation. Through discussion, it can be concluded that in order to reduce the harm of vortex breakdown, it can take measures such as controlling the impeller rotation speed, stalling anti-vortex measures, and adjusting operating conditions.