Dynamic Force Analysis on Blades of Centrifugal Pumps using Computational Fluids Dynamics Simulations

Victor Antwi

Authors

Victor Antwi Department of Physics Education, University of Education, Winneba, Ghana https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0521-7722

Keywords:

Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), centrifugal pump, tangential force, absolute pressure, flow rate

Abstract

Mechanical stress on the blade of a centrifugal pump is a crucial factor in the design and operation of hydraulic pumps. Therefore, in this study, the tangential force on the blade of a centrifugal pump at different flow rates and directions was investigated using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations. The CFD simulations were performed based on the k-? turbulence model and were validated through experimental measurements. The study revealed that the tangential force is dependent on the flow rate of the fluid being pumped, and understanding how it changes with varying flow rates is essential for optimizing the performance of the pump and preventing potential fractures. On the other hand, the absolute pressure on the blade was also investigated. The absolute pressure distributions on the blade pressure side, suction side, leading edge, and trailing edge were analyzed for different flow rates. The highest pressure distribution is found on the pressure side than the suction side. On the blade pressure side, a relatively large pressure is found near the trailing edge. Overall, the study provides insights into the complex relationship between flow rate and tangential force in centrifugal pumps and highlights the importance of understanding this relationship for successful pump design and operation.

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