Numerical investigation on reducing axial thrust in a radial pump by performing balancing holes in back shroud

Abstract

Consulta en la Biblioteca ETSI Industriales (7733)

[EN] In this paper, CFD code CFX-11 is utilized to predict the Axial Thrust behaviour in a centrifugal pump. Two designs have been studied, first design (D1) is a seven blade radial pump and second design(D2) is for same pump but it has been performed balancing holes whose purpose is reducing axial thrust as this causes so many injuries on bearing and reducing its life. Both designs are including complete pump, seven blade impeller and casing. Numerical simulation predicts the radial pump behavior. In first part of report we have done a modeling study for y+ comparing different meshes, nodes number, and even discretization order. The second part is divided into four different chapters. Pressure and Velocity Gradient in Balancing holes, where pressure and velocity fields are studied in hole chambers. Pressure Distribution in Hub and Shroud, where pressure distribution is compared vs different radiuses along hub and shroud. Mass Flow Rate in Performed Holes, is also compared in different working points. Characteristic Curves for both designs are compared in this chapter with the purpose of knowing how characteristics are changing when performing balancing holes Concluding, as we introduce balancing holes in back shroud, axial thrust is reduced and also characteristics on the pump are changing