Optimization of Centrifugal Pump Based on Impeller-Volute Interactions

Abstract

The design and off-design performance of a centrifugal pump largely depends on geomechanical parameters. This study aims at enhancing the performance by optimizing three geomechanical parameters of impeller-volute interactions. The present optimization is carried out using the Taguchi method combined with a numerical approach. A comparison between the base and optimized pumps is presented under the design and off-design conditions based on numerical and experimental analyses. The numerical results reveal that, compared to the base pump, the optimized pump shows the improved performance through uniform pressure distribution in the impeller, the reduced low-pressure region towards a blade’s leading edge, and the stable total pressure at the impeller-volute interaction zone. The experimental results suggest that the optimized pump covers a wider range of operation, and its best efficiency point (BEP) is 10%, 5%, and 12% higher in flow rate, head, and efficiency, as compared to the base one.