Numerical Simulation Research on Vortex Characteristics of Centrifugal Pump Inlet Recirculation

Abstract:

The 3-D steady turbulent flow in a centrifugal pump under different conditions was simulated by ANSYS CFX software. The intensity, location and the morphology of the inlet recirculation vortex were analyzed using standard k-ε turbulent model through steady simulation. Based on the results, the turbulent flow in the impeller inlet was simulated by Large Eddy Simulation. The dynamic characters and the whole changing process of the recirculation vortex during the rotation of the impeller were analyzed. The results indicate that the critical flow rate of the recirculation onset is 0.7Qd. As the flow rate decreases, the size and the intensity of the recirculation vortex increase and the vortex partially block the flow passage. The vortex first appears in the passage which passes by the outlet section of the volute. During one rotating, the vortex undergoes a whole process of onset, developing, decreasing and disappearing. As the relative speed and the pressure gradient change under different conditions, the vortices present different morphologies.

• Periodical: Advanced Materials Research (Volumes 468-471)
• Pages: 2235-2240
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/AMR.468-471.2235
• Online since: February 2012
• Authors: Jian Ping Yuan, Wei Sun, Long Yan Wang, Yun Liang
• Keywords: Centrifugal Pump, Inlet Recirculation, Numerical Simulation, Vortex Characteristics

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