Analysis of unsteady internal flow characteristics in axial pump with varying number of blades using computational modelling and vibration techniques

Abstract

Axial pumps were extensively applied in many varying applications because of their large flow and low head. In this research investigation, the comparative analysis of the findings unveiled that the predominant source of hydraulic-induced vibration in the pump stemmed from pressure pulsations at the impeller inlet. Notably, similar patterns in amplitude were observed as flow rates increased. Furthermore, time-domain analysis confirmed that pressure pulsations and vibrations are highly correlated under high flow rates. Pressure pulsation's Frequency-domain analysis also revealed that it was a multiple of shaft frequency and changed from one multiple to three multiples of vibration. While analyzing the flow rate characteristics pertaining to pressure pulsation and vibration, it was determined that pressure pulsations at the impeller inlet had the potential to generate frequency components across a broad spectrum, encompassing both low and high flow rates, as well as their respective multiples. This phenomenon was particularly pronounced in regions characterized by unstable and high flow rates. Vibration ingredients likely influenced by pressure pulsation at the impeller inlet could be as low as design flow rates and as high as high flow rates. A vibration frequency with a multiple did not seem to be influenced by pulsating pressure at the impeller entrance. The present study focuses on investigation of flow behaviors in an axial pump with varying numbers of blades. It is an important geometric parameter that significantly affects the pump's performance. Therefore, the dynamic flow patterns in a pump, considering changed flow and impeller blade configurations, are investigated by employing the sliding mesh technique in combination with SST (k-ω) turbulence model. The numerical results exhibit a commendable alignment with the existing experimental data, enhancing the predictive accuracy of pump performance. Qualitative analyses encompass static pressure, shear stress, and various velocity components. Concurrently, quantitative investigations delve into pressure fluctuations and average pressure across a spectrum of operating conditions and impeller blade configurations. These comprehensive findings underscore the substantial influence of the impeller blade on pressure, velocity magnitudes radial, axial, tangential shear stress, average pressure within the system.