energies

Article
Impeller Optimized Design of the Centrifugal Pump:
A Numerical and Experimental Investigation
Xiangdong Han 1,2,3 , Yong Kang 1,2,3,4, *, Deng Li 1,2,3 and Weiguo Zhao 5
1 Key Laboratory of Hydraulic Machinery Transients, Ministry of Education, Wuhan University,
Wuhan 430072, China; hanxiangdong@whu.edu.cn (X.H.); 2008lee@whu.edu.cn (D.L.)
2 Hubei Key Laboratory of Waterjet Theory and New Technology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
3 School of Power and Mechanical Engineering, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
4 Collaborative Innovation Center of Geospatial Technology, Wuhan 430079, China
5 School of Energy and Power Engineering, Lanzhou University of Technology, Lanzhou 730050, China;
hanromeolut@163.com
* Correspondence: kangyong@whu.edu.cn; Tel.: +86-27-6877-4442




Received: 22 March 2018; Accepted: 17 May 2018; Published: 4 June 2018


Abstract: Combined numerical simulation with experiment, blade wrap angle, and blade exit angle
are varied to investigate the optimized design of the impeller of centrifugal pump. Blade wrap angles
are 122◦ , 126◦ , and 130◦ . Blade exit angles are 24◦ , 26◦ , and 28◦ . Based on numerical simulation,
internal flow of the centrifugal pump with five different impellers under 0.6, 0.8, 1.0, 1.2, and 1.5
Qd are simulated. Variations of static pressure, relative velocity, streamline, and turbulent kinetic
energy are analyzed. The impeller with blade wrap angle 126◦ and blade exit angle 24◦ are optimal.
Distribution of static pressure is the most uniform and relative velocity sudden changes do not exist.
Streamlines are the smoothest. Distribution scope of turbulent kinetic energy is the smallest. Based on
performance experiments, head and efficiency of the centrifugal pump with the best impeller are
tested. The values of head and efficiency are higher than that of the original pump. Centrifugal pump
with the best impeller has better hydraulic performance than the original centrifugal pump.

Keywords: centrifugal pump; impeller; blade wrap angle; blade exit angle; optimized design

1. Introduction
A centrifugal pump is one kind of general machinery [1] which is widely and fully utilized in
the industrial and agricultural fields [2], such as irrigation and water supply. It normally includes
four different parts: suction pipe, impeller, volute, and exit pipe. The impeller is the core part and
it converts the mechanical energy into pressure energy [3], which directly determines the transport
capacity and the hydraulic performances of centrifugal pump. So, optimized design of the impeller is
essential and significant for the efficient operation of a centrifugal pump [4,5].
One-dimensional flow theory, two-dimensional flow theory, and three-dimensional flow theory
are three basic theories to optimally design the centrifugal pump [6,7]. Two-dimensional flow theory
regards the distribution of meridian velocity across the cross-section as symmetrical. The flow is
one kind of potential flow. Optimized design of hydraulic machinery in engineering fields, which
is based on two-dimensional flow theory, is rare. It is only employed to optimally design the higher
specific speed impellers of mixed-flow pump and runners of mixed-flow turbine. Three-dimensional
flow theory, proposed by Wu [8], is also called S1 and S2 relative flow surface theory. In this method,
the three-dimensional flow is converted into two two-dimensional flows in the surfaces S1 and S2 .
Only in the ideal conditions of flow being inviscid, incompressible, and unsteady, can this method be
applied to design the impeller successfully. This method is difficult and complex. Thus, it is not always

Energies 2018, 11, 1444; doi:10.3390/en11061444 www.mdpi.com/journal/energies

Energies 2018, 11, x FOR PEER REVIEW 2 of 20
Energies 2018, 11, 1444 2 of 21

pump in the engineering field. However, one-dimensional flow theory, which is based on Euler
equations,
employed to is optimally
convenient and an
design simple.
impellerFlowforin the meridional
a centrifugal pumpsurface is symmetrical.
in the engineering field. Engineers
However,
coming from home
one-dimensional flow and abroad
theory, factories
which is based widely
on Euleremploy one-dimensional
equations, is convenient flow
andtheory
simple.toFlow
optimally
in the
design
meridionalan impeller
surface is forsymmetrical.
a centrifugalEngineers
pump [9–11]. coming from home and abroad factories widely employ
Blade exit angle
one-dimensional flow(Ф) andtoblade
theory wrapdesign
optimally angle (β an2)impeller
are two for significant
a centrifugalparameters in the impeller
pump [9–11].
optimized design
Blade exit angle process
(Φ) andaccording
blade wrap to angle
one-dimensional flow theory
(β2 ) are two significant [12–15]. in
parameters The thehydraulic
impeller
performance
optimized design of a centrifugal
process accordingpump isto mainly determinedflow
one-dimensional by these
theoryparameters.
[12–15]. The In the actual
hydraulic
optimized design
performance process, blade
of a centrifugal pumpexit angle often
is mainly varies from
determined by these 15° parameters.
to 40° and blade In thewrap
actualangle often
optimized
varies from 90° to 130° [16]. Some scholars studied ◦the ◦
effects of blade
design process, blade exit angle often varies from 15 to 40 and blade wrap angle often varies from exit angle and blade wrap
90◦ to on
angle ◦ [16].
130the hydraulic performances
Some scholars studied of the
the effects
centrifugal pump
of blade exit[17–19].
angle and Theblade
selection
wrapofangle
bladeon wrap
the
angle
hydraulicandperformances
blade exit angle of themainly depend
centrifugal on the
pump specific
[17–19]. Thespeed
selection of the centrifugal
of blade pumpand
wrap angle and the
blade
actual optimized
exit angle design on
mainly depend experience.
the specific If speed
the blade
of thewrap angle ispump
centrifugal too large,
and the the impeller
actual friction
optimized area
design
becomes
experience. large, which
If the bladeiswrapbad for theisimprovement
angle too large, the of efficiency.
impeller If the
friction blade
area wrap large,
becomes angle which
is too small,
is bad
the impeller
for the cannot control
improvement the flow
of efficiency. of water
If the effectively
blade wrap angleandis toothesmall,
impeller cannot operate
the impeller stably. For
cannot control the
the
flowblade exit effectively
of water angle, a moderate value could
and the impeller effectively
cannot operateimprove
stably. For thethehydraulic
blade exit performances of the
angle, a moderate
centrifugal
value could pump.
effectivelyComprehensively
improve the hydraulicconsidering the specific
performances of thespeed of the pump.
centrifugal target centrifugal pump
Comprehensively
(n s = 112) and
considering thespecific
the effectsspeed
of blade wrap
of the angle
target and bladepump
centrifugal exit angle
(ns = on 112)the
and hydraulic
the effectsperformances
of blade wrap of
the
angle centrifugal
and bladepump,exit anglethe variation scope of
on the hydraulic the blade wrap
performances of theangle and blade
centrifugal exit angle
pump, was selected
the variation scope
carefully.
of the blade The blade
wrap wrap
angle andangle was
blade tested
exit angleinwasthe selected
range ofcarefully.
120° to 130° Theandbladethewrap
values werewas
angle Ф =tested
122°,
126°, and 130°, ◦
respectively. ◦ The blade exit angle was ◦
tested ◦
in the range
in the range of 120 to 130 and the values were Φ = 122 , 126 , and 130 , respectively. The blade exit ◦ of 20° to 30° and the values
were
angle βwas
2 = 24°, 26°,inand
tested the28°,
range of 20◦ to 30◦ and the values were β2 = 24◦ , 26◦ , and 28◦ , separately.
separately.

2. Basic Parameters of the Impeller

impeller D
The inlet diameter of the impeller diameter D
D11 = 200 mm and the outlet diameter D22 = 420 mm. The exit
width b22 ==34
34mm.
mm.TheTheoriginal
originalblade
bladewrap
wrap angle ◦ . The original blade exit angle β = 26◦ .
= 120The
angle ΦΦ= 120°. original blade exit angle β2 = 26°.
2 The
The
basicbasic parameters
parameters of impeller
of the the impeller are shown
are shown in Figure
in Figure 1. 1.

Figure
Figure 1.
1. Two-dimensional
Two-dimensional model
model of
of the
the impeller.
impeller.

3. Method to Modify the Impeller

3. Method to Modify the Impeller
The impeller shape is directly determined by the blade profiles. In the impeller optimization
The impeller shape is directly determined by the blade profiles. In the impeller optimization
design process, all blade profiles must be smooth. The bend of the blade profiles should be in one
design process, all blade profiles must be smooth. The bend of the blade profiles should be in one
single direction. An ‘S’ shape should not exist [16,20,21]. All blade profiles should be symmetrical.
single direction. An ‘S’ shape should not exist [16,20,21]. All blade profiles should be symmetrical.
The blade profile differential equation is
The blade profile differential equation is
ds
dθ = ds (1)
dθ = r tan β (1)
r tan β
Energies 2018, 11, x FOR PEER REVIEW 3 of 20

Here, s is the axial streamline. θ denotes the axial angle. r represents the radius of one arbitrary
point in the blade profile. β is the blade angle.
Energies
The2018, 11, 1444
speed triangle is shown in Figure 2. Here, c represents absolute velocity, w is the relative 3 of 21

velocity, and u is the following velocity. cm and wm are the component of absolute velocity and
relative
Here,velocity
s is thein thestreamline.
axial meridionalθplane, respectively.
denotes cu is rthe
the axial angle. component
represents in the of
the radius circumferential
one arbitrary
plane.
point in the blade profile. β is the blade angle.
Based
The on the
speed speed is
triangle triangle,
shown tanβ could2.beHere,
in Figure described as
c represents absolute velocity, w is the relative
velocity, and u is the following velocity. cm and wm are cthe component of absolute velocity and relative
cuβis=the
m
velocity in the meridional plane, respectively. tan component in the circumferential plane. (2)
u − cu
Based on the speed triangle, tanβ could be described as
Thus,
cm
tan β = (2)
ds u −
cmcu
= (3)
Thus, rdθ u − cu
ds cm
So, = (3)
rdθ u − cu
So, ccm
ds ==
ds rdθ
rdθ (4)
(4)
u
u− − ccuu
According to the above equations, blade profile optimized design has a closed relation with blade
According to the above equations, blade profile optimized design has a closed relation with
inlet angle (β1 ), blade exit angle (β2 ), and blade wrap angle (Φ). Three different methods are usually
blade inlet angle (β1), blade exit angle (β2), and blade wrap angle (Φ). Three different methods are
employed to modify the blade profiles. They are that
usually employed to modify the blade profiles. They are that
(1)
(1) ββ11isisthe
theconstant.
constant.ββ2 2and
andΦΦare arechanged.
changed.
(2) andββ2 2are
(2) ββ11and arefixed.
fixed.ΦΦisisvaried.
varied.
(3)
(3) β22and Φ are invariant. β1 1isisaltered.
β and Φ are invariant. β altered.

Figure 2.
Figure 2. Speed
Speed triangle.
triangle.

Method 1 (β1 is the constant. β2 and Φ are changed.) was always employed to optimally design
Method 1 (β is the constant. β and Φ are changed.) was always employed to optimally design
the impeller. As 1shown in Table 1, 2the blade exit angle of Schemes 1–3 was identical and the blade
the impeller. As shown in Table 1, the blade exit angle of Schemes 1–3 was identical and the blade
wrap angles varied from 122° to 130°, which were employed to investigate the effects of different
wrap angles varied from 122◦ to 130◦ , which were employed to investigate the effects of different blade
blade wrap angles on the optimized design of the centrifugal pump. For Schemes 2, 4, and 5, the
wrap angles on the optimized design of the centrifugal pump. For Schemes 2, 4, and 5, the blade wrap
blade wrap angle was the same and the blade exit angle was changed, which was used to discuss the
angle was the same and the blade exit angle was changed, which was used to discuss the effects of
effects of diverse blade exit angles on the optimized design of the centrifugal pump.
diverse blade exit angles on the optimized design of the centrifugal pump.
Table 1. Optimized schemes of the blade profile.
Table 1. Optimized schemes of the blade profile.
Scheme 1 2 3 4 5
Scheme Φ 1 122° 126° 2 130°
3 126° 4 126° 5
Φ β2 122◦ 26° 126
26°
◦ 26°
130◦ 28°126◦24° 126◦
β2 26◦ 26◦ 26◦ 28◦ 24◦
The impeller optimized design procedure is that, via the analysis of effects of blade wrap angle
(Schemes 1–3) on the hydraulic performances of the centrifugal pump, one optimal scheme could be
The impeller
determined optimized design
via computational fluid procedure is that, According
dynamics (CFD). via the analysis
to theofdiscussion
effects of blade wrap
of effects of angle
blade
(Schemes 1–3) on the hydraulic performances of the centrifugal pump, one optimal scheme could be
determined via computational fluid dynamics (CFD). According to the discussion of effects of blade
exit angle (Schemes 2, 4, and 5) on the variations of head and efficiency, one optimal scheme could be
Energies 2018, 11, x FOR PEER REVIEW 4 of 20
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2018, 11, x FOR PEER REVIEW 4 of 4
20of 21
exit angle (Schemes 2, 4, and 5) on the variations of head and efficiency, one optimal scheme could
exit by
be got angle (Schemessimulation.
numerical 2, 4, and 5) Then,
on the these
variations
two of head and
different efficiency,
schemes areone optimal and
compared scheme
thecould
best one
got be
by got
numerical
by simulation.
numerical Then,Then,
simulation. thesethese
two different
two schemes
different are compared
schemes are andand
compared thethe
bestbest
oneone
could
could be obtained. The optimized procedure includes two main parts, as shown in Figure 3.
be obtained. The optimized procedure includes two main parts, as shown in Figure
could be obtained. The optimized procedure includes two main parts, as shown in Figure 3. 3.

Figure 3. Flow chart of the optimized design of the impeller.

Figure 3. Flow chart of the optimized design of the impeller.
Figure 3. Flow chart of the optimized design of the impeller.
The physical models of the blades under different blade wrap angle and blade exit angle
The
Thephysical
physical
conditions modelsin of
models
are given the blades
of the
Figure underunder
4. blades different blade wrap
different bladeangle
wrapand bladeand
angle exit blade
angle conditions
exit angle
are given inare
conditions Figure 4. in Figure 4.
given

Impeller 1 Impeller 2 Impeller 3 Impeller 4 Impeller 5

(Φ = 122°, β2 = 26°) (Φ = 126°, β2 = 26°) (Φ = 130°, β2 = 26°) (Φ = 126°, β2 = 28°) (Φ = 126°, β2 = 24°)
Impeller 1 Impeller 2 Impeller 3 Impeller 4 Impeller 5
(Φ = 122°, β2 = 26°) (Φ = 126°, β2 = Figure
26°) 4.(ΦPhysical
= 130°, βmodel of the(Φ
2 = 26°)
blades.
= 126°, β2 = 28°) (Φ = 126°, β2 = 24°)

4. Numerical Method Figure 4. Physical model of the blades.

Figure 4. Physical model of the blades.

4. Numerical Method
4.1. Fundamental Equations
4. Numerical Method
The fundamental equations [22] are employed to describe the flow characteristics in the
4.1. Fundamental Equations
4.1. centrifugal
Fundamental pump, which include two main parts: continuity equation and motion equation,
Equations
corresponding
The fundamentalmass
with conservation
equations [22] law
are and momentum
employed conservation
to describe the law.
flow characteristics in the
The fundamental equations [22] are employed to describe the flow characteristics in the centrifugal
centrifugal pump, which include two main
pump, which include two main parts: continuity ( ρui ) = 0 and motion equation,
parts:
∂ρ ∂equation
+
continuity equation and motion equation,
corresponding with
corresponding with mass conservation law and (5)
mass conservation law and momentum conservation ∂t momentum
∂xi law. conservation law.
∂ ( ρ ui)
∂u ∂u ∂ρ∂∂pρ ∂∂(ρu ) ∂u=i 0+ ∂uj   − 2 ∂  μ ∂uj 
ρ i + ρ uj i = ρ fi − ∂t+++ ∂xμi  = 0 ∂x  3 ∂x  ∂x  (6) (5)
(5)
∂t ∂x j ∂t∂xi ∂x∂x j 
i  ∂x i 
i  j  i  j 

∂ui of water.
∂u t represents ∂p "   ∂u ∂u  !#2 ∂  ∂u 
∂the
Here, ρ is the density time. u denotes the velocity.
2 μ∂ j  ∂uxj is the Cartesian (6)
!
∂ui ρ ∂u +i ρ uj i = ρ ∂p  μ ∂uii + ∂uj −
j
fi − +∂
coordinate. fi is + ρu∂jforce
ρ the body t = ∂ρxfji −p is the
vector. ∂x µ  ∂μxis+
∂+x pressure. the  3 −
∂xi dynamic  ∂x µ
∂xi viscosity. (6)
∂t ∂x j ∂xi i ∂x j j  ∂x jj ∂xi 3 ∂xi j  ∂x j
Here, ρρ isis the
Here, the density
density of
ofwater.
water. tt represents
represents the
the time.
time. uu denotes
denotes the
the velocity.
velocity. xx is
is the
the Cartesian
Cartesian
coordinate. fi is the body force vector. p is the pressure. μ is the dynamic viscosity.
coordinate. f i is the body force vector. p is the pressure. µ is the dynamic viscosity.
Energies 2018, 11, 1444 5 of 21

4.2. Turbulent
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FOR PEER REVIEW 5 of 20

RNG k-ε turbulent model proposed by Yakhot and Orzag [23] was employed to deal with turbulent
4.2. Turbulent Model
flow. In the centrifugal pump, the impeller is the rotating part whose rotation effects could be fully
dealt RNG
by thek-ε turbulentdissipation
turbulent model proposed
rate (ε)by Yakhot in
equation and
thisOrzag [23] was
turbulent employed
model. On theto dealhand,
other with the RNG
turbulent flow. In the centrifugal pump, the impeller is the rotating part whose rotation effects could
k-ε turbulent model has high-precision, which could guarantee the accuracy of the numerical results.
be fully dealt by the turbulent dissipation rate (ε) equation in this turbulent model. On the other
hand, the RNG k-ε turbulent model has high-precision, " which could guarantee
# the accuracy of the
∂(ρk) ∂(ρkui ) ∂ ∂k
numerical results. + = × (αk (µ + µt )) + Gk + ρε (7)
∂t ∂xi ∂x j ∂x j
∂ (ρk) ∂ ( ρ kui ) ∂  ∂k 
∂t
+
∂xi
=
∂x j  k
(
×  α ( μ + μt )
∂
)
 + G"
k
+ ρε (7)
ε2 j  ∂
x
#
∂(ρε) ∂(ρεui ) ε ∂ε
+ = C1ε Gk C2ε ρ + α ε ( µ + µt ) (8)
∂ ( ρε ) ∂ ( ρε ui )i
∂t ∂x ε k ε 2 k ∂  j
∂x ∂ε  ∂x j
+ = C1ε G k −C 2ε ρ + α ε ( μ +μ t )  (8)
∂t ∂xi ∂x ∂x
k2 j  
k k j 

µt = ρcµ (9)
k2 ε
μ t =ρ c μ (9)
Here, k is the turbulent kinetic energy. ε isεthe turbulent dissipation rate. µt is the turbulent
viscosity. The five terms, C , C2ε , αenergy.
Here, k is the turbulent1εkinetic k , αε , and c are empirical coefficients and the values are 1.42, 1.68,
ε is µthe turbulent dissipation rate. μt is the turbulent
1.39, 1.39, The
viscosity. andfive
0.09, separately.
terms, Gkk, αisε, one
C1ε, C2ε, α and generation term
cμ are empirical of turbulent
coefficients kinetic
and the energy
values which
are 1.42, 1.68, is caused
by the mean velocity gradient.
1.39, 1.39, and 0.09, separately. Gk is one generation term of turbulent kinetic energy which is caused
by the mean velocity gradient.
5. Numerical Simulation Setup
5. Numerical Simulation Setup
5.1. Physical Model
5.1. Physical Model
Three-dimensional (3D) single-stage and single-suction centrifugal pump was employed,
Three-dimensional
as shown (3D)suction
in Figure 5. The single-stage and single-suction
pipe was centrifugal
employed to keep pump was
the uniform employed,
of the flow. Exitas pipe was
shown intoFigure
utilized avoid5.the
The suction pipe
backflow. Thewas employed to
performance keep the uniform
parameters of the flow.
were designed Exit
flow pipe
rate Qdwas= 550 m3 /h;
utilized tohead
designed avoidHthe=backflow. The motor
50 m; rated performance
powerparameters
P = 110 KW;wereand
designed
rated flow rate Qdspeed
rotational = 550 mn /h;
3
= 1480 rpm.
d
designed head Hd = 50 m; rated motor power P = 110 KW; and rated rotational speed n = 1480rpm.
The geometric parameters of the impeller and the volute were shown in Table 2.
The geometric parameters of the impeller and the volute were shown in Table 2.
Volute
Suction pipe

Impeller
Exit pipe

Figure 5. Physical model of the centrifugal pump.

Figure 5. Physical model of the centrifugal pump.
Table 2. Geometric parameters of the impeller and volute
Table 2. Geometric parameters of the impeller and volute
Parameter Value
Impeller inlet diameter D1, mm 200
Parameter Value
Impeller outlet diameter D2, mm 420
Impeller
Impellerinlet diameter
exit width D1 , mm 34
b2, mm 200
Impeller blade Z D2 , mm 6
outletofdiameter
Number 420
Impellerof
Base diameter exit voluteb2D, 3mm
thewidth , mm34 435
Volute inlet widthblade
Number of b3, mmZ 6 72
Base
Volutediameter of the volute
outlet diameter D4, mm D3 , mm 250
435
Volute inlet width b3 , mm 72
Volute outlet
To get accurate numerical simulation diameter
results D4 , mm
a balance 250 and back chamber
hole, front chamber,
were added to the 3D physical model of the centrifugal pump, as displayed in Figures 6 and 7.
Diameter of the balance hole was 10mm and it was mainly employed to balance the axial force [24].
To get accurate numerical simulation results a balance hole, front chamber, and back chamber were
added to the 3D physical model of the centrifugal pump, as displayed in Figures 6 and 7. Diameter of
the balance hole was 10mm and it was mainly employed to balance the axial force [24].
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Figure
Figure6.6.Physical modelofofthe
Physical model theimpeller.
impeller.
Figure6.6.Physical
Figure modelofofthe
Physical model theimpeller.
impeller.

Figure 7. Chamber of the centrifugal pump.

Figure 7. Chamber of the centrifugal pump.
Figure7.7. Chamber
Figure Chamberof ofthe
thecentrifugal
centrifugalpump.
pump.
5.2. Mesh Generation
5.2. Mesh Generation
5.2. MeshANSYS-ICEM
5.2. Mesh Generation (15.0, ANSYS, Inc., Canonsburg, PA, USA) is employed to discrete the
Generation
ANSYS-ICEM
centrifugal (15.0, ANSYS,domains.
pump computational Inc., Canonsburg,
To guaranteePA,theUSA) is employed
uniformity to discrete
of the flow, the
structured
ANSYS-ICEM
centrifugal
ANSYS-ICEM
meshes were pump (15.0,
(15.0,
employed ANSYS,
computational
toANSYS, Inc.,
discretize Canonsburg,
domains.
Inc.,
the Canonsburg,
computational PA,domains
To guaranteeUSA)the is
PA, ofemployed
uniformity
USA) oftopipe
is employed
the suction discrete
the flow, to
and exit thediscrete
centrifugal
structured
pipe, as the
pump meshes
centrifugal
displayedwere
pump employed
computational to Fully
domains.discretize
computational
in Figure 8d–e. To the computational
guarantee
domains.
considering Tothe
the domains
uniformity
guarantee
complex theof
structure the
the
of suction
ofuniformity
theflow, pipe andthe
structured
impellerof and
the exitvolute,
flow, pipe,
meshes as
towere
structured
displayed
employed
get the
meshes were in Figure
to discretize
employedthe
better 8d–e. Fully
adaptability of considering
to computational
the flow, the complex
domains of the
unstructured
discretize the computational structure
suction of
meshes
domains of the
pipe
were impeller
theand and
exit pipe
employed
suction the
pipe,and
to volute, to
as displayed
exit pipe, in
discrete the as
get the better domains
computational adaptability of the flow,
of impeller, unstructured
front and meshes
andwere employed toin discrete the
Figure 8d–e.
displayed inFully
Figure considering
8d–e. Fully the complex
considering theback
structure chamber,
of the
complex impeller
structure volute,
theasthe
ofand shown
volute,
impeller Figure
andto get 8a–c.
the the better
volute, to
computational
Meshes in domains of impeller, front and back chamber, and refined.
volute, as shown in Figure 8a–c.
adaptability
get the ofthe
better the leading
adaptabilityedges ofof the
flow, unstructured the impeller
flow, and
werebalance
meshesunstructured hole
employed were
to discrete
meshes were the computational
employed domains
to discrete the
Meshes in the leading edges of the impeller and balance hole were refined.
of impeller, frontdomains
computational and backofchamber,
impeller,and volute,
front and as shown
back in Figure
chamber, and8a–c. Meshes
volute, in thein
as shown leading
Figureedges
8a–c.
of the impeller
Meshes and balance
in the leading edgeshole were
of the refined.and balance hole were refined.
impeller

(a) Mesh of the impeller

(a) Mesh of the impeller

(a) Mesh of the impeller

Figure 8. Cont.
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Energies 2018, 11, x FOR PEER REVIEW 7 of 20

(b) Mesh of the cover plate (c) Mesh of the volute

(b) Mesh of the cover plate (c) Mesh of the volute

(d) Mesh of the suction pipe (e) Mesh of the exit pipe
(d) Mesh of the suction pipe (e) Mesh of the exit pipe
Figure 8. Meshes of the computational domain of the centrifugal pump.
Figure 8. Meshes of the computational domain of the centrifugal pump.
Figure 8. Meshes of the computational domain of the centrifugal pump.
Mesh numbers of the five different impellers were 3,472,923, 3,473,052, 3,471,896, 3,472,816, and
Mesh
3,473,011, numbersof ofthe
Mesh respectively.
numbers thefive
All fivedifferent
mesh different impellers
qualityimpellers
was higher were
were 3,472,923,
3,472,923,
than 0.3. Mesh 3,473,052,
3,473,052,
number and3,471,896,
3,471,896, of 3,472,816,
3,472,816,
quality front and
and
and 3,473,011,
3,473,011, respectively.
respectively. All All
mesh mesh quality
quality was was higher
higher thanthan
0.3. 0.3.
Mesh Mesh number
number
back chamber, volute, suction pipe, and exit pipe were displayed in Table 3. and and quality
quality of of
frontfront
and
and
backback chamber,
chamber, volute,
volute, suction
suction pipe,pipe,
and and
exit exit
pipepipe
werewere displayed
displayed in Table
in Table 3. 3.
Table 3. Mesh number and quality
Table 3. Mesh number and quality
Table 3. Mesh number and quality
Front and Back Chamber Volute Suction Pipe Exit Pipe
Frontand
Mesh number Front and Back
Back Chamber
934,607 Volute
Chamber Volute
2,238,179 Suction
Suction Pipe
Pipe
498,506 Exit Pipe
Exit Pipe
327,624
Mesh
Mesh
Mesh number
quality
number 934,607
>0.4
934,607 2,238,179
>0.4
2,238,179 498,506
>0.8
498,506 327,624
>0.8
327,624
Mesh quality
Mesh quality >0.4
>0.4 >0.4
>0.4 >0.8 >0.8
>0.8
Head under designed flow rate condition was calculated to verify mesh independence. Results
Head
indicated under designed flow rate condition was calculated to verify mesh independence. Results
Head that with
under the increase
designed of mesh
flow rate number,
condition head increased
was calculated firstly.
to verify meshThen, the differences
independence. of
Results
indicated
head were that with
slight, as the increase
shown in of mesh
Figure 9. number,
Total mesh head increased
numbers of the firstly.
five Then, centrifugal
different the differences
pumpsof
indicated that with the increase of mesh number, head increased firstly. Then, the differences of head
head were
were slight,slight,
7,139,826, as shown
7,146,497, in Figure7,145,682,
7,143,016, 9. Total mesh numbers separately.
and 7,147,024, of the five different centrifugal pumps
were as shown in Figure 9. Total mesh numbers of the five different centrifugal pumps were
were 7,139,826, 7,146,497, 7,143,016, 7,145,682, and 7,147,024, separately.
7,139,826, 7,146,497, 7,143,016, 7,145,682, and 7,147,024, separately.

Figure 9. Meshes independence.

Figure 9. Meshes independence.
5.3. Boundary Conditions
5.3. Boundary Conditions
Energies 2018, 11, 1444 8 of 21

Energies2018,
Energies 2018,11,
11,xxFOR
FORPEER
PEERREVIEW
REVIEW 88ofof2020
5.3. Boundary Conditions
Reynoldsaveraged
Reynolds averagedNaiver–Stokes
Naiver–Stokes(RANS) (RANS)method methodwas wasemployed
employedto
employed tosimulate
to simulatethe
simulate theinternal
the internalflow
internal flow
flow
ofofthe
thecentrifugal
centrifugalpump.
pump.At Atinlet,
inlet,the
thevelocity
velocitywas wasset.
set.At
Atoutlet,
At outlet,the
outlet, thefree
freeoutflow
outflowwas wasset.
set.Near
Nearwall
wall
flowwas
flow wastreated
treatedby bystandard
standardwallwallfunction.
function.The The interface
interface was
was set
set between
between suction
suction pipe
pipe and
and
The interface was set between suction pipe and impeller, impeller,
impeller,
impellerand
impeller and
and volute,
volute,
volute, volute
volute
volute and
andand exit pipe.
exitexit
pipe. pipe. The SIMPLE
The
The SIMPLE SIMPLE
scheme scheme
scheme
was used was
was used to
toused
solve to solve
the solve the
coupled the coupled
coupled
equations
equations
of velocity.ofofThe
equations velocity.
velocity.
PRESTO! ThePRESTO!
The PRESTO!
was wasemployed
was
employed employed
to computetotocompute
computepressure.
pressure. pressure.
The second Theorder
The second
second orderupwind
order
upwind upwind
scheme
scheme
scheme was
was used
used for
for the
the solving
solving of
of momentum,
momentum, turbulent
turbulent kinetic
kinetic energy,
energy,
was used for the solving of momentum, turbulent kinetic energy, and turbulent dissipation rate. and
and turbulent
turbulent dissipation
dissipation
rate.
rate.
All Allresiduals
All residuals
residuals were
were were
less less1.0
less
than than
than 1.0−××510
×1.0
10 .10−5−5. .

5.4.Verification
5.4. Verificationofofthe
Verification theAlgorithm
Algorithm
Theabove-mentioned
The above-mentionedalgorithm
above-mentioned algorithmis
algorithm isisemployed
employedto
employed tonumerically
to numericallysimulate
numerically simulatethe
simulate theinternal
the internalflow
internal flowofofthe
flow the
originalcentrifugal
original
original centrifugalpump
centrifugal pumpand andoptimized
optimizedcentrifugal
centrifugalpump.
pump.To Toverify
To verifythe
verify thereasonableness
the reasonablenessof
reasonableness ofthe
of the
algorithmused,
algorithm
algorithm used,flow
used, flowin
flow inone
in onesingle-stage
one single-stageand
single-stage andsingle
and singlesuction
single suctioncentrifugal
suction centrifugalpump
centrifugal pumpwhich
pump whichis
which isisshown
showninin
shown
Figure1010was
wassimulated
simulatedunder underdifferent
differentflow
flowrate
rate conditions. The rated flow rate
isisis 33/h
dQ d== 500mm
conditions. The rated flow rate QQ 3/h
Figure was simulated under different flow rate conditions. The rated flow rate d= 500
500m /h
andthe
and therated
ratedhead
headisisHHddd===53
53m.
53 m.Rated
m. rotatingspeed
Ratedrotating
rotating speedisis
speed isnnn===1480
1480rpm.
rpm.

Figure10.
Figure 10.Experimental
Experimentalcentrifugal
centrifugalpump.
pump.
Figure 10. Experimental centrifugal pump.

Thenumerical
The numericalresults
resultsofofhead
headandandefficiency
efficiency had
hadaagoodgoodagreement
agreementwithwiththe
theexperimental
experimental
Theas
results,
results, numerical
asdisplayedresults
displayed of head
ininFigure
Figure 11.and
11. Theefficiency
The maximum
maximum had a good
relative
relative agreement
error
error ofofthe with
thehead the
headwas experimental
was lessthan
less results,
than3.7%.
3.7%. The
The
as displayed
largest in Figure
fractional error 11.
of The
the maximum
efficiency was relative
less error
than of
2.2%. the
Thehead was
algorithm less than
designed3.7%.
was
largest fractional error of the efficiency was less than 2.2%. The algorithm designed was reasonable. The largest
reasonable.
fractional error of the efficiency was less than 2.2%. The algorithm designed was reasonable.

6060
7878
5555
7575
Efficiency η/%
Efficiency η/%

5050 7272
Head H/m
Head H/m

4545 6969

6666
4040
Experimentalresults
Experimental results Experimentalresults
Experimental results
6363
Numericalsimulation
simulationresults
results Numericalsimulation
Numerical simulationresults
results
3535 Numerical
6060
3030 200
200 300
300 400
400 500
500 600
600 700
700 800
800
200
200 300
300 400
400 500
500 600
600 700
700 800
800
-1
Flowrate
rateQ/ 3 3·h
Q/mm
Flowrate
Flow 3 3·h
Q/mm
rateQ/ ·h-1
-1
Flow ·h-1

(a)
(a) (b)
(b)

Figure11.
Figure
Figure 11.
11. Comparison
Comparison
Comparison of
of theof the hydraulic
hydraulic
the hydraulic performances
performances ofofpump.
of centrifugal
performances centrifugal
(a) Head
centrifugal pump.
(H)-flow
pump. (a)
(a) Head
rate (Q);
Head
(b) Efficiency
(H)-flow (η)-flow
rate (Q). rate
(b) (Q).
Efficiency (η)-flow rate
(H)-flow rate (Q). (b) Efficiency (η)-flow rate (Q). (Q).

6.6.Numerical
NumericalSimulation
Numerical SimulationResults
ResultsAnalysis
Analysis

ToTomeasure
measure
measure thethe
the effects
effects ofof blade
of blade
effects blade wrap
wrapwrap angle
angleangle
and andexit
blade
and blade
angle
blade exit angle
onangle
exit the on the
the performances
performances
on performances ofof
of centrifugal
centrifugal
pump,
centrifugal pump,
variations
pump, variations
ofvariations ofofstatic
static pressure, static pressure,
relative relative
velocity,
pressure, velocity,and
streamlines,
relative velocity, streamlines,
turbulentand
streamlines, and turbulent
kinetic kinetic
energykinetic
turbulent in the
energyin
middle
energy inthe
spanthe middle
ofmiddle spanofwere
the impeller
span ofthe
theanalyzed
impellerwere
impeller wereanalyzed
under analyzed
the typical under
flowthe
under thetypical
rate typical flow(low
conditions
flow rateconditions
rate conditions
flow rate 0.6(low
Qd
(low
flow0.8
and
flow rate 0.6
Qd0.6
rate QQd dand
, rated and 0.8
flow0.8 QQd1.0
rate ,d,rated
rated
Qd , andflow
flow rateflow
high
rate 1.0QQ
1.0 d,d,and
rate and Qhigh
1.2 high
d andflow rate 1.2
Qd ).1.2
1.5rate
flow QQd dand
Also, andvariations
the 1.5QQd).
1.5 d).Also,
Also,
of headthe
the
variations
and ofofhead
efficiency
variations head
under and
andthe efficiency
above flow
efficiency under
under the
ratethe aboveflow
conditions
above flow
were rate conditionswere
compared.
rate conditions werecompared.
compared.

6.1.Variation
6.1. VariationofofStatic
StaticPressure
Pressure
Energies 2018, 11, 1444 9 of 21

6.1. Variation of Static Pressure

Energies 2018, 11, x FOR PEER REVIEW 9 of 20
The overall static pressure variation law is that static pressure in different passages distributed
uniformly. The overall static
Differences ofpressure variationin
static pressure law
allispassages
that staticwere
pressure in different
relatively passages
small, as showndistributed
in Figure 12.
uniformly. Differences of static pressure in all passages were relatively small, as shown in Figure 12.
At the inlet of the impeller, static pressure was the lowest. Static pressure at the outlet of the impeller
At the inlet of the impeller, static pressure was the lowest. Static pressure at the outlet of the impeller
was the highest. For Impellers 1–5, static pressure increased overall with the growing of flow rate.
was the highest. For Impellers 1–5, static pressure increased overall with the growing of flow rate.
Under 0.8 Q
Under d condition,
0.8 Qd condition, the
theincrease
increase of staticpressure
of static pressure was
was more
more manifest.
manifest. At outlet,
At outlet, static pressure
static pressure
attained the maximum
attained the maximum under 1.5QQdd condition.
under1.5 condition.

0.6 Qd 0.8 Qd 1.0 Qd 1.2 Qd 1.5 Qd

(a) Impeller 1 (Φ = 122°, β2 = 26°)

0.6 Qd 0.8 Qd 1.0 Qd 1.2 Qd 1.5 Qd

(b) Impeller 2 (Φ = 126°, β2 = 26°)

0.6 Qd 0.8 Qd 1.0 Qd 1.2 Qd 1.5 Qd

(c) Impeller 3 (Φ = 130°, β2 = 26°)

0.6 Qd 0.8 Qd 1.0 Qd 1.2 Qd 1.5 Qd

(d) Impeller 4 (Φ = 126°, β2 = 28°)

0.6 Qd 0.8 Qd 1.0 Qd 1.2 Qd 1.5 Qd

(e) Impeller 5 (Φ = 126°, β2 = 24°)

Figure 12. Cont.

Energies 2018, 11, 1444 10 of 21
Energies 2018, 11, x FOR PEER REVIEW 10 of 20

Figure 12. Variation of static pressure in different impellers.

Figure 12. Variation of static pressure in different impellers.
Static pressure in Impellers 1, 2, and 4 fluctuated more obviously and the pressure gradient was
Static
higher, pressure
which was in Impellers
caused by the1, 2,intense
and 4rotor-stator
fluctuatedinteraction
more obviously and theand
of the impeller pressure gradient
the volute [25]. was
higher, which was
Volumetric losscaused by the intense
of the centrifugal pumprotor-stator interaction
is severe. Thus, of the pump
the centrifugal impeller and
could notthe volute [25].
operate
efficiently.
Volumetric 2018,For
Energies loss ofxImpeller
11, the 2, under pump
centrifugal
FOR PEER REVIEW low flow is rate conditions,
severe. Thus,the thedistribution
centrifugal scope
pumpof lower
could pressure
not
10 of operate
20
was much larger than that of other impellers. Centrifugal pumps operating under
efficiently. For Impeller 2, under low flow rate conditions, the distribution scope of lower pressure was these conditions
were unstable. Compared with Impellers 1, 2, 4, and 5, the lower pressure region in Impeller 3 was
much larger than that of other impellers. Centrifugal pumps operating under these conditions were
much larger under 0.8 Qd and 1.2 Qd conditions, mainly caused by secondary flow. Cavitation in
unstable. Compared with Impellers 1, 2, 4, and 5, the lower pressure region in Impeller 3 was much
Impeller 3 could occur easily, which could make the performances of the centrifugal pump decrease
largersharply 0.8 QInd Impeller
under [26]. Qdthe
and 1.2Figure
5, conditions,
pressure
12. mainly
gradient
Variation caused
of staticwas inby secondary
the smallest
pressure flow. pressure
andimpellers.
different the lower Cavitation in Impeller
region was 3
couldtheoccur easily,
smallest which
under all could make
flow rate the performances
conditions, proving thatofthetheoptimization
centrifugalof pump decrease
Impeller 5 is thesharply
best. [26].
In Impeller Static
Impeller pressure
5, with
the pressurein Impellers
Ф = 126° gradient
and blade 1,was
2, and
exit the4 fluctuated
anglessmallest more
β2 = 24°and obviously
the
could and thesafety
lower pressure
guarantee the pressure
region gradient
was the
operation of was
smallest
the
higher,
undercentrifugal
all flow whichpump.
rate was caused byproving
conditions, the intensethatrotor-stator interaction
the optimization ofofImpeller
the impeller
5 is and
the the volute
best. [25]. with
Impeller
Volumetric
◦ and blade loss of the centrifugal pump is severe. Thus, the centrifugal pump could not operate
Φ = 126 exit angles β2 = 24◦ could guarantee the safety operation of the centrifugal pump.
6.2. VariationFor
efficiently. of Relative
ImpellerVelocity
2, under low flow rate conditions, the distribution scope of lower pressure
was much
6.2. Variation larger
of Relative than that
Velocity of other impellers. Centrifugal pumps operating under these conditions
At the inlet of the impeller, the relative velocity was small. At the outlet of the impeller, the
were unstable. Compared with Impellers 1, 2, 4, and 5, the lower pressure region in Impeller 3 was
relative velocity attained the maximum, which was in agreement with the experimental and
At the inlet
much largerofunder
the impeller,
0.8 Qd and the1.2
relative velocity was
Qd conditions, mainlysmall. At by
caused thesecondary
outlet of the impeller,
flow. thein
Cavitation relative
theoretical results [27]. Relative velocity in the pressure surface was much smaller than that of
Impeller
velocity 3 could
attained the occur easily, which
maximum, whichcould
was make
in the performances
agreement with ofthe
the experimental
centrifugal pump decrease
and theoretical
suction pressure. With the increase of flow rate, the low relative speed zone became smaller, as
sharply
resultsshown
[27]. in[26]. In Impeller
Relative velocity 5, in
thethe
pressure gradient
pressure was was
surface the smallest and the lower
much smaller than pressure region was
that of suction pressure.
Figure 13.
the smallest under all flow rate conditions, proving that the optimization of Impeller 5 is the best.
With the increase
Under low of flow
flowraterate, the low relative
conditions, speed
low relative zonezone
velocity became smaller,
in Impeller as smaller
5 was shownthanin Figure
that of 13.
Impeller with Ф = 126° and blade exit angles β2 = 24° could guarantee the safety operation of the
other impellers,
Under low flow which could guarantee
rate conditions, the stable
low relative operation
velocity zoneof in the centrifugal
Impeller 5 waspump.
smallerVelocity
than that of
centrifugal pump.
other gradient
impellers, in which
Impellers 1–4 guarantee
could was larger theand stable
the flow in these of
operation impellers was disorderly.
the centrifugal pump.Under
Velocityratedgradient
flow rate conditions, the low speed velocity zone in Impeller 1 was the most obvious. Although
in Impellers 1–4 was
6.2. Variation larger
of Relative and the flow in these impellers was disorderly. Under rated flow rate
Velocity
differences of low speed zones of Impellers 2–5 were smaller, the zone of Impeller 5 was smaller than
conditions,Atthe low speed
the inlet2–4.of the
velocity
impeller,
zone in Impeller
the relative
1 was
wassmall.
velocity the
the most
At the
obvious.
outlet
Although
ofof
the impeller,
differences
the
that of Impellers Under high flow rate conditions, low velocity speed zone Impeller 5 was
of lowthespeed
smallest. Velocity sudden change did not appear. The distribution of relative velocity wasthat of
relative zones
velocity of Impellers
attained the 2–5 were
maximum, smaller,
which the
was zone
in of Impeller
agreement with 5 was
the smaller
experimental than and
Impellers 2–4.which
theoretical
uniform, Under
results high flow
[27]. Relative
reflected rate
that blade conditions,
velocity in theΦthe
wrap angle lowand
pressure
= 126° velocity
surface
bladewasspeed
exit muchzone
angle 2 =of
24°Impeller
βsmaller let 5the
than that
could was
of the
smallest. Velocity
suction
centrifugal pumpsudden
pressure. Withchange
operate thestably. did
The not
increase appear.
of flow
hydraulic rate, The distribution
the low
performances relative of relative
speed
of Impeller 5 zone velocity
became
were better was
smaller,
than others.uniform,
as
whichshown in Figure
reflected 13. wrap angle Φ = 126◦ and blade exit angle β2 = 24◦ could let the centrifugal
that blade
pump operate stably. The hydraulic performances of Impeller 5 were better than others.

0.6 Qd 0.8 Qd 1.0 Qd 1.2 Qd 1.5 Qd

(a) Impeller 1 (Φ = 122°, β2 = 26°)
0.6 Qd 0.8 Qd 1.0 Qd 1.2 Qd 1.5 Qd
(a) Impeller 1 (Φ = 122°, β2 = 26°)

0.6 Qd 0.8 Qd 1.0 Qd 1.2 Qd 1.5 Qd

0.6 Qd 0.8 Qd 1.0 Qd 1.2 Qd 1.5 Qd

(b) Impeller 2 (Φ = 126°, β2 = 26°)

Figure 13. Cont.

EnergiesEnergies
2018, 11,
2018,
144411, x FOR PEER REVIEW 11 of 2011 of 21

0.6 Qd 0.8 Qd 1.0 Qd 1.2 Qd 1.5 Qd

(c) Impeller 3 (Φ = 130°, β2 = 26°)

0.6 Qd 0.8 Qd 1.0 Qd 1.2 Qd 1.5 Qd

(d) Impeller 4 (Φ = 126°, β2 = 28°)

0.6 Qd 0.8 Qd 1.0 Qd 1.2 Qd 1.5 Qd

(e) Impeller 5 (Φ = 126°, β2 = 24°)

Figure 13. Variation of absolute velocity in different impellers.

Figure 13. Variation of absolute velocity in different impellers.
6.3. Variation of Streamlines
6.3. Variation of Streamlines
Under low flow rate conditions, streamlines in Impellers 1–4 were disorder and there were
manifest
Under low vortices,
flow rateespecially for 0.6streamlines
conditions, Qd condition, in which could1–4
Impellers cause
were severe energyand
disorder lossthere
and were
secondary flow. For Impeller 2, the vortices were the most obvious, as shown
manifest vortices, especially for 0.6 Qd condition, which could cause severe energy loss and secondaryin Figure 14b. The
centrifugal pumps under these two flow rate conditions operated unstably, which could induce
flow. For Impeller 2, the vortices were the most obvious, as shown in Figure 14b. The centrifugal
severe vibrations and noises [28] and the efficiency of the centrifugal pumps decreased. However,
pumps under these two flow rate conditions operated unstably, which could induce severe vibrations
the streamlines in Impeller 5 under these two conditions were smooth. The secondary flow could be
and noises
avoided [28] and the efficiency
successfully. Comparedofwiththe low
centrifugal
flow ratepumps decreased.
conditions, streamlines However, the high
in rated and streamlines
flow in
Impeller
rate5 conditions
under these two conditions
became were smooth.
smooth. However, streamlinesTheofsecondary
Impellers 1–4flow
werecould
morebe avoided
disorder successfully.
than that
Compared with low
of Impeller 5. In flow rate 1,
Impellers conditions, streamlines
2, and 4, the in rated
low speed region onand high flow
the pressure rate conditions
surface was dramatic, became
smooth.which could let
However, the flow inofsuction
streamlines surface
Impellers 1–4was
werefaster.
moreEnergy lossthan
disorder in this
thatregion could be
of Impeller 5. caused
In Impellers
easily.
1, 2, and Overall,
4, the the streamlines
low speed region onin Impeller 5 weresurface
the pressure the smoothest, as displayed
was dramatic, whichin Figure
could14e,
let which
the flow in
could result in lower energy loss. The flow separation and back flow could be controlled. The
suction surface was faster. Energy loss in this region could be caused easily. Overall, the streamlines in
centrifugal pump could operate stably.
Impeller 5 were the smoothest, as displayed in Figure 14e, which could result in lower energy loss.
The flow separation and back flow could be controlled. The centrifugal pump could operate stably.
Energies 2018, 11, 1444 12 of 21
Energies 2018, 11, x FOR PEER REVIEW 12 of 20

0.6 Qd 0.8 Qd 1.0 Qd 1.2 Qd 1.5 Qd

(a) Impeller 1 (Φ = 122°, β2 = 26°)

0.6 Qd 0.8 Qd 1.0 Qd 1.2 Qd 1.5 Qd

(b) Impeller 2 (Φ = 126°, β2 = 26°)

0.6 Qd 0.8 Qd 1.0 Qd 1.2 Qd 1.5 Qd

(c) Impeller 3 (Φ = 130°, β2 = 26°)

0.6 Qd 0.8 Qd 1.0 Qd 1.2 Qd 1.5 Qd

(d) Impeller 4 (Φ = 126°, β2 = 28°)

0.6 Qd 0.8 Qd 1.0 Qd 1.2 Qd 1.5 Qd

(e) Impeller 5 (Φ = 126°, β2 = 24°)

Figure 14. Variation of streamlines in different impeller.

Figure 14. Variation of streamlines in different impeller.
Energies 2018, 11,
Energies 2018, 11, x FOR PEER REVIEW
1444 13
13 of
of 20
21

6.4. Variation of Turbulent Kinetic Energy

6.4. Variation of Turbulent Kinetic Energy
The distribution characteristics of turbulent kinetic energy in the middle span of the impeller
wereThe distribution
sharply different characteristics
under diverse of turbulent
flow ratekinetic energywhich
conditions, in the middle span ofintheFigure
were shown impeller15.were
The
sharply different
distribution scope under diverse
became flow rate
smaller conditions,
gradually withwhich were shown
the increase in Figure
of flow rates.15. The distribution
Under the 0.6 Qd
scope became
condition, smaller gradually
the distribution range ofwith the increase
turbulent kinetic of flow was
energy rates.
the Under
largest the
and0.6 Qd the
under condition,
1.5 Qd
condition, the scope
the distribution range wasofthe smallestkinetic
turbulent for all energy was the largest and under the 1.5 Qd condition,
the impellers.
Under
the scope waslow theflow rate conditions,
smallest the distribution scope of turbulent kinetic energy in Impeller 2
for all the impellers.
was larger
Underthanlow flowthat of other
rate impellers.
conditions, theVelocity vector
distribution had of
scope obvious change
turbulent when
kinetic water
energy inflows from2
Impeller
the impeller
was larger than to the
thatvolute.
of otherCentrifugal pump with
impellers. Velocity vectorImpeller 2 could
had obvious not operate
change stably.
when water Under
flows rated
from the
flow rate conditions, the turbulent kinetic energy distribution scopes of Impellers 1, 3, and 4 were
impeller to the volute. Centrifugal pump with Impeller 2 could not operate stably. Under rated flow
similar and theythe
rate conditions, were slightly
turbulent largerenergy
kinetic than distribution
that of Impeller 5. of
scopes For high flow
Impellers 1, 3,rate
andconditions,
4 were similar the
distribution
and they were scope of turbulent
slightly larger thankinetic
thatenergy was almost
of Impeller 5. For identical
high flowfor allconditions,
rate the impellers. the distribution
scopeBased on the above
of turbulent kineticanalysis
energy of wasturbulent kinetic energy
almost identical for alland
the according
impellers. to Equation (7), turbulent
intensity
Basedl [29]
on theof Impeller 5 was less
above analysis intense than
of turbulent thatenergy
kinetic of Impellers 1–4 overall.
and according Thus, the
to Equation energy
(7), loss
turbulent
in Impeller
intensity 5 was
l [29] less than5 was
of Impeller otherless
impellers, which
intense than could
that guarantee
of Impellers 1–4the high transportation
overall. Thus, the energy capacity
loss in
of the centrifugal
Impeller 5 was less pump.
than other impellers, which could guarantee the high transportation capacity of
the centrifugal pump.
3
( )
2
= 3 (vvininll)2
kk = (10)
(10)
22
Here, vvin
Here, is the
in is the inlet velocity. ll is
inlet velocity. is the
the turbulent
turbulent intensity.
intensity.

0.6 Qd 0.8 Qd 1.0 Qd 1.2 Qd 1.5 Qd

(a) Impeller 1 (Φ = 122°, β2 = 26°)

0.6 Qd 0.8 Qd 1.0 Qd 1.2 Qd 1.5 Qd

(b) Impeller 2 (Φ = 126°, β2 = 26°)

0.6 Qd 0.8 Qd 1.0 Qd 1.2 Qd 1.5 Qd

(c) Impeller 3 (Φ = 130°, β2 = 26°)

Figure 15. Cont.

Energies 2018, 11, x FOR PEER REVIEW 14 of 20
Energies 2018, 11, 1444 14 of 21
Energies 2018, 11, x FOR PEER REVIEW 14 of 20

0.6 Qd 0.8 Qd 1.0 Qd 1.2 Qd 1.5 Qd

0.6 Qd 0.8 Qd (d) Impeller 41.0
(ΦQ=d126°, β2 = 28°) 1.2 Qd 1.5 Qd
(d) Impeller 4 (Φ = 126°, β2 = 28°)

0.6 Qd 0.8 Qd 1.0 Qd 1.2 Qd 1.5 Qd

0.6 Qd 0.8 Qd (e) Impeller 5 (1.0
Φ =Q126°,
d β2 = 24°) 1.2 Qd 1.5 Qd
(e) Impeller 5 (Φ = 126°, β2 = 24°)

Figure 15. Variation of turbulent kinetic energy in different impellers.

Figure
Figure 15.
15. Variation of turbulent
Variation of turbulent kinetic
kinetic energy
energy in
in different
different impellers.
impellers.
6.5. Variations of Head and Efficiency
6.5. Variations
With the ofof Head and
increase Efficiency
of Efficiency
flow rate, head decreased gradually and efficiency increased firstly then
6.5. Variations Head and
decreased,
With the increase of Figure
as exhibited in 16. Differences
flow rate, of head
head decreased were relatively
gradually slight. A
and efficiency head with
increased Φ = 122°
firstly then
With the increase of flow rate, head decreased gradually and efficiency increased firstly then
was higher as
decreased, than that of in
exhibited Φ Figure
= 126°.16.
The head of the
Differences of centrifugal pump with
head were relatively Φ=A
slight. 130°
headwas theΦ
with highest
= 122°
decreased, as exhibited in Figure 16. Differences of head were relatively slight. A head with Φ = 122◦
one.
was Efficiency
higher than attained
that ofthe
Φ =maximum
126°. Theunder designed
head of flow rate.pump
the centrifugal Efficiency
with with Φ = 130°
Φ = 130° was was higher
the highest
was higher than that of Φ = 126◦ . The head of the centrifugal pump with Φ = 130◦ was the highest one.
than
one. that of Φ =attained
Efficiency 122° andthe126°. Compared
maximum with
under Schemesflow
designed 1 and 2, Scheme
rate. 3 was
Efficiency withthe
Φ =optimal
130° wasone.
higher
Efficiency attained the maximum under designed flow rate. Efficiency with Φ = 130◦ was higher than
than that of Φ =◦ 122° and◦ 126°. Compared with Schemes 1 and 2, Scheme 3 was the optimal one.
that of Φ = 122 and 126 . Compared with Schemes 1 and 2, Scheme 3 was the optimal one.

58 90
56
58 88
90
54
56 86
88
η/%η/%

52
54 84
86
H/mH/m

Efficiency

50
52 82
84
Head

Efficiency

48
50 80
82
Head of Scheme 1
Head

46
48 Head of Scheme 2 78
80
Head of Scheme 1
44 Head of Scheme 3 76
46 Head of Scheme 2 78
Efficiency of Scheme 1
42
44 Head of Scheme 3 74
76
Efficiency of Scheme 2
Efficiency of Scheme 1
40
42 Efficiency of Scheme 3 72
74
Efficiency of Scheme 2
200
40 300 400 500 600
Efficiency 700 3 800
of Scheme 90072
3
200 300 400 Flow
500rate Q/m
600 /h700 800 900
Flow rate Q/m3/h
Figure
Figure 16.
16. Hydraulic
Hydraulic performances
performances of
of the
the centrifugal
centrifugal pump
pump with
with different
different blade wrap angles.
Figure 16. Hydraulic performances of the centrifugal pump with different blade wrap angles.
Schemes
Schemes 2, 2, 4,
4, and
and 55 reflected
reflected thethe effects
effects of
of blade
blade exit
exit angles
angles onon hydraulic
hydraulic performances
performances of of the
the
centrifugal
Schemes
centrifugal pump,
pump, as
2, 4,asanddisplayed
5 reflected
displayed in Figure 17.
the effects
in Figure Head
of blade
17. Head decreased
exit angles
decreased constantly and
on hydraulic
constantly efficiency
performances
and efficiency increased
increased of the
firstly
firstly then
centrifugal decreased
pump, as with the
displayed increase
in of
Figure flow
17. rate.
Head The efficiency
decreased attained
constantly the
and
then decreased with the increase of flow rate. The efficiency attained the maximum under the ratedmaximum
efficiency under the
increased
rated
flow flow
thenrate.
firstlyrate. Head
withwith
decreased
Head β2 =βthe
with 2 =◦ 24°
24 waswas
increase slightly
of flow
slightly higher than
rate. than
higher The that
of of
efficiency
that β2βattained
2 = 28°.
= Differences
the maximum
28◦ . Differences of head
of head
underwith
the
with
βrated
2 = 26°and 28° Head
flow rate. were with
sharp.
β2 The
= 24°distinctions
was slightlyof efficiency
higher wereofsmaller.
than that β2 = 28°. Efficiency
Differencesofofcentrifugal
head with
β2 = 26°and 28° were sharp. The distinctions of efficiency were smaller. Efficiency of centrifugal
Energies 2018, 11, x FOR PEER REVIEW 15 of 20

pump with β2 = 24° was the highest. Compared with Schemes 2, 4, and 5, the centrifugal pump with
βEnergies
Energies had11,
2018,
2 = 24°2018, the
11, 1444
bestPEER
x FOR hydraulic
REVIEWperformances. 15 of
15 of 20
21

pump with β2 = 24° was the highest. Compared with Schemes 2, 4, and 5, the centrifugal pump with
β2 = 26◦ and 28◦ were sharp. The distinctions of efficiency were smaller. Efficiency of centrifugal pump
β2 = 24° had the best hydraulic performances.
with β2 = 24◦ was the highest.60Compared with Schemes 2, 4, and 5, the centrifugal
90
pump with β2 = 24◦
58
had the best hydraulic performances. 88
56
54 86

Head H/m Head H/m

60

η/%
52 90
84
58

Efficiency
50 88
82
56
48
54
Head of Scheme 2 86
80

/%
46 Head of Scheme 4
52 84
78

Efficiency η
Head of Scheme 5
44
50 82
Efficiency of Scheme 2 76
42
48 Head of Scheme 2 4
Efficiency of Scheme 80
74
40
46 Head of Scheme
Efficiency 4 5
of Scheme
78
72
Head of Scheme
600 5 700
44200 300 400 500 800 900
3
Efficiency of Scheme 2 76
Flow rate Q/m /h
42
Efficiency of Scheme 4 74
40 Efficiency of Scheme 5
72
Figure 17. Hydraulic performances
200 300 of
400 the500
centrifugal
600 pump
700 800with
900different blade exit
3
angles. Flow rate Q/m /h

Figure
In Figure
Scheme 3, Hydraulic
17. 17.
Hydraulic
blade wrap performances
performances
angle Φ =ofof130°
the centrifugal
the centrifugalpump
pump
was the optimal with different
with
one. blade
different
The exit angles.
blade
correspondingexit blade exit
angleangles.
β2 = 26°. In Scheme 5, blade exit angle β2 = 24° was the best one. The corresponding blade wrap
angleInΦScheme
= 126°.3,Head
bladeandwrap angle Φ of
efficiency = 130 ◦ was 5
Scheme were
the higher
optimal one.than
Thethat of Scheme blade
corresponding 3, as shown in
exit angle
In
Figure ◦Scheme
β2 = 26 18.
. InSo, 3, blade
Scheme
Scheme wrap
5 was
5, blade angle
exitselectedΦ = 130°◦
angle β2to= improvewas the
24 was the bestoptimal
hydraulicone. The corresponding
one. Theperformances
correspondingofblade blade
the wrap exit
centrifugal
angle
Φ = 126
angle
pump. β2◦=. Head
26°. Inand
Scheme 5, blade
efficiency exit angle
of Scheme β2 = 24°
5 were wasthan
higher the best
thatone. The corresponding
of Scheme 3, as shown in blade wrap
Figure 18.
angle Φ = 126°.
So, Scheme 5 wasHead andtoefficiency
selected improve of theScheme
hydraulic5 were higher than
performances thatcentrifugal
of the of Schemepump.
3, as shown in
Figure 18. So, Scheme 5 was selected to improve the hydraulic performances of the centrifugal
pump. 60
90
58
88
56
86
54
η/%

60
90
Head H/m Head H/m

84
52
58
Efficiency

88
82
50
56
86
80
48
54
/%

Head of Scheme 3 84
78
Efficiency η

46
52 Head of Scheme 5
44
50 Efficiency of Scheme 3 82
76
Efficiency of Scheme 5 80
42
48 74
Head of Scheme 3
46200 300 400 500 600 700 800 90078
Head of Scheme 5
3
44 Flow Efficiency
rate Q/mof /hScheme 3 76
Efficiency of Scheme 5
42 74
Figure Hydraulic
300 400 performances
20018. Hydraulic 500 600 of Schemes
700 800 3 and 5.
900
Flow rate Q/m3/h
7. Experimental
Experimental Analysis
Figure 18. Hydraulic performances of Schemes 3 and 5.
Via numerical
numericalsimulation
simulation in Part
in Part 6, Scheme
6, Scheme 5 was determined
5 was determined to one.
to be the best be the
Thebest one. The
corresponding
corresponding impeller was
impeller was machined. machined.
Then, Then, theexperiments
the performance performancewere experiments
done in were done performance
the closed in the closed
7. Experimental Analysis
performance
experiment rigexperiment
of ShanghairigKaiquan
of Shanghai
Pump Kaiquan
Group to Pump
verifyGroup to verify
that head that head of
and efficiency and
theefficiency
centrifugalof
the
pump Via numerical
centrifugal
with the pump simulation
Impellerwith in obvious
Part5 showing
the Impeller
5 showing 6, improvement.
Scheme 5 wasimprovement.
obvious determined to be the best one. The
corresponding impeller was machined. Then, the performance experiments were done in the closed
Experiment Setup
performance
Experiment Setup
experiment rig of Shanghai Kaiquan Pump Group to verify that head and efficiency of
the centrifugal pump
impeller with the Impeller
machining processwas 5 showing
was obvious
displayed improvement.
The impeller machining process displayed ininFigure
Figure 19.19.
At At
the the outlet
outlet of impeller,
of the the impeller,
the
the allowance was 5 mm, as shown in region A. Allowance of the impeller front
allowance was 5 mm, as shown in region A. Allowance of the impeller front shroud and back shroud shroud and back
Experiment Setup
shroud
was was as
3 mm, 3 mm, as exhibited
exhibited in region
in region B. At
B. At the the of
inlet inlet
theofimpeller,
the impeller, the allowance
the allowance waswas3 mm 3 mm
too,too,
as
as displayed
displayed in region
The impeller
in region C. C. Allowance
machining process
Allowance ofwas
of the the hub was
displayed
hub was 3 in
3 mm,mm, as
Figure
as shown
shown19.inAtin region
the
region D.D. of the impeller, the
outlet
allowance was 5 mm, as shown in region A. Allowance of the impeller front shroud and back shroud
was 3 mm, as exhibited in region B. At the inlet of the impeller, the allowance was 3 mm too, as
displayed in region C. Allowance of the hub was 3 mm, as shown in region D.
Energies 2018, 11, x FOR PEER REVIEW 16 of 20
A
Energies 2018, 11, 1444 16 of 21

Energies 2018, 11, x FOR PEER REVIEW 16 of 20

B A

C
C

D
D
Figure Figure
19. The machining process
19. The machining processofofthe
the impeller.
impeller.
Figure 19. The machining process of the impeller.

To measure Tothe optimized

measure designdesign
the optimized of the of impeller
the impellerofofScheme
Scheme 5, 3D
3Dwax
waxpattern
pattern impeller,
impeller, givengiven
in in
To measure
Figure 20, wasthe optimized
machined design
firstly in of the
the impeller
HRPS-V of prototyping
rapid Scheme 5, 3Dmachine,
wax pattern
as impeller,
shown in given 21.
Figure
Figure 20, was machined firstly in the HRPS-V rapid prototyping machine, as shown in Figure 21.
in Figure 20, was
Laminated machined
object firstly in (LOM)
manufacturing the HRPS-Vin thisrapid prototyping machine,
machine—which as shown
is based on incoming
the data Figure 21.from
Laminated object
Laminated
manufacturing
object manufacturing
(LOM)
(LOM)
in this
in hot
machine—which
thispressing
machine—which
is based
is based
on the
on thetodata
data
coming
coming from
CAD laying model, CO2 laser beam, and device—was employed machine the from
3D wax
CAD laying
CAD model, CO2 laser
layingimpeller.
pattern model, beam,
CO2 laser and
beam, andhot
hotpressing device—was
pressing device—was employed
employed to machine
to machine the 3D waxthe 3D wax
pattern impeller.
pattern impeller.

Figure 20. 3D wax pattern.

Figure
Figure20.
20.3D waxpattern.
3D wax pattern.

Figure 21. HRPS-V rapid prototyping machine.

Then, the casted impeller of Scheme 5 was machined, which was displayed in Figure 22. The
material was 2Cr13. To guarantee that the passages of the impeller were smooth and clean, silt
particles and cast jointFigure
flash in21.
theHRPS-V
passagesrapid
were prototyping
cleaned carefully.
machine.
Figure 21. HRPS-V rapid prototyping machine.

Then, the casted

Then, impeller
the casted of Scheme
impeller of Scheme5 was machined,
5 was machined,which
which was displayedin in
was displayed Figure
Figure 22. 22. The
materialThe
wasmaterial
2Cr13.was To2Cr13. To guarantee
guarantee thatpassages
that the the passages of the
of the impeller were
impeller were smooth
smooth andand
clean,
clean, silt
silt particles and cast joint flash in the passages were cleaned carefully.
particles and cast joint flash in the passages were cleaned carefully.

Figure 22. The casted impeller.

 Figure 21. HRPS-V rapid prototyping machine.

Then, the casted impeller of Scheme 5 was machined, which was displayed in Figure 22. The
material was 2Cr13. To guarantee that the passages of the impeller were smooth and 17
Energies 2018, 11, 1444
clean,
of 21
silt
particles and cast joint flash in the passages were cleaned carefully.

Figure
Figure22.
22. The
The casted impeller.
casted impeller.
Energies 2018, 11, x FOR PEER REVIEW 17 of 20
Energies 2018, 11, x FOR PEER REVIEW 17 of 20
The
The performance
performance experiments
experimentsof ofthe
thecentrifugal
centrifugalpump
pumpwereweredone
done atat
thethe
closed experiment
closed experiment rigrig
of
The
Shanghai performance
Kaiquan
of Shanghai Pump
Kaiquan experiments
Group.
Pump of the centrifugal
The experiment
Group. pump
rig, given
The experiment were
rig,ingiven done at
Figurein23,Figure the
includes closed
23,the experiment
model centrifugal
includes the model rig
of Shanghai
pump, suctionKaiquan
pipes, Pump
exit Group.
pipes, pressureThe experiment
gauges, valves, rig,
and given
flow in Figure
meters.
centrifugal pump, suction pipes, exit pipes, pressure gauges, valves, and flow meters. TheThe 23, includes
type of thetype
pressure model
sensor
of
centrifugal
is XU12087105pump,
(1.0,suction
Shanghai pipes, exit
Automation pipes, pressure gauges,
Instrumentation Co.valves,
Ltd., and flow
Shanghai,
pressure sensor is XU12087105 (1.0, Shanghai Automation Instrumentation CO. LTD, Shanghai, meters.
China). The
The type
type of
of
pressure
flow meter
China). sensor
Theistype is
DN300 XU12087105
of flow(1.0,meter
Tianjin (1.0, Shanghai
Flow Meter
is DN300 Automation
Co. Ltd.,
(1.0, Tianjin Flow Instrumentation
Tianjin,
MeterChina).
CO. LTD, The CO. LTD,
type ofChina).
Tianjin, Shanghai,
valve is
The ZA2.T.
type
of valve is ZA2.T. All testing precisions are national grade 1 (GB3216-2005 and ISO 9906-1999). type
China).
All The
testing type of
precisions flow
are meter
nationalis DN300
grade 1(1.0, Tianjin
(GB3216-2005 Flowand Meter
ISO CO. LTD,
9906-1999). Tianjin, China). The
of valve is ZA2.T. All testing precisions are national grade 1 (GB3216-2005 and ISO 9906-1999).

Figure 23.
Figure 23. Performance
Performance experiment
experiment rig.
rig.
Figure 23. Performance experiment rig.
Figure 24 is the typical components of the closed performance experiment rig. It includes 16
Figure
Figure 24
24 is
is the
the typical
typical components
components of
of the
the closed
closedperformance
performance experiment
experiment rig.
rig. It
It includes
includes 16
16
different parts.
different
different parts.
parts.

Figure 24. Components of the closed performance experiment rig. 1–electric motor; 2–torque and
Figuresensor;
speed 24. Components of the closed
3–centrifugal performance experiment rig. 1–electric motor; 2–torque and
Figure 24. Components of thepump; 4–sluice valve;
closed performance 5–inlet
experiment pressure sensor;
rig. 1–electric 6–turbine
motor; 2–torqueflow
andmeter;
speed
speed sensor;
7–outlet 3–centrifugal
pressure sensor; pump; 4–sluice valve; 5–inlet pressure sensor; 6–turbineflow
flowmeters;
meter;
sensor; 3–centrifugal pump; 8–turbine flow 5–inlet
4–sluice valve; meter; 9–expansion
pressure sensor;joint; 10–turbine
6–turbine flow meter; 7–outlet
7–outlet pressure
11–regulating sensor; 8–turbine flow meter; 9–expansion joint; 10–turbine flow meters;
pressure sensor;valve; 12–turbine
8–turbine flow 9–expansion
flow meter; meters; 13–cavitation tank; 14–separation
joint; 10–turbine tank of vaporvalve;
flow meters; 11–regulating and
11–regulating
water; 15–ball valve; 16–
valve; 12–turbine flow meters;
electric motor; 13–cavitation
17–vacuum pump. tanktank; 14–separation tank of vapor and
12–turbine flow meters; 13–cavitation tank; 14–separation of vapor and water; 15–ball valve;
water; 15–ball valve; 16– electric motor; 17–vacuum pump.
16–electric motor; 17–vacuum pump.
Via the inlet pressure Sensor 5 and the outlet pressure Sensor 7, M1 and M2 were determined.
Via thetoinlet
According pressure
Equations Sensor
(11) 5 and
and (12), thethe outlet
inlet pressure
pressure andSensor 7, M1pressure
the outlet and M2 were
of thedetermined.
centrifugal
According to Equations
pump could be got. (11) and (12), the inlet pressure and the outlet pressure of the centrifugal
pump could
The inletbe got.
pressure is calculated by
The inlet pressure is calculated by
p1
p = 102 M + h (11)
ρ g1 = 102 M11 + h11 (11)
ρg
Energies 2018, 11, 1444 18 of 21

Via the inlet pressure Sensor 5 and the outlet pressure Sensor 7, M1 and M2 were determined.
According to Equations (11) and (12), the inlet pressure and the outlet pressure of the centrifugal pump
could be got.
The inlet pressure is calculated by
p1
= 102M1 + h1 (11)
ρg

The outlet pressure is determined by

p2
= 102M2 − h3 (12)
ρg

where h1 is the vertical height between the center of inlet pressure sensor with axial lead of the
centrifugal pump. h3 is the vertical height between the center of the outlet pressure sensor with the
outlet pressure port.
The inlet flow rate (Q1 ) and outlet flow rate (Q2 ) of the centrifugal pump could be measured by
turbine flow meter 6 and 8, respectively.
Thus, the inlet velocity of the centrifugal pump v1 could be calculated by

Q1
v1 = (13)
A1

The outlet velocity of the centrifugal pump v2 could be got by

Q2
v2 = (14)
A2

Here, A1 is the inlet cross-section area. A2 is the outlet cross-section area.

Head (H) could be calculated by Equation (15)
!
v22 v2
 
p2 p
H= − 1 + − 1 + ( Z2 − Z1 ) (15)
ρg ρg 2g 2g

where Z2 and Z1 are the static head.

In the performance experiment rig,
Z1 = 0 (16)

For Z2 , it could be obtained by

Z2 = h2 + h3 (17)

Here, h2 is the vertical height between the center of outlet pressure sensor with axial lead of the
centrifugal pump.
In the performance experiment rig,
h2 = h1 (18)

The Equation (15) could be modified. The new form was shown in Equation (20).
!
v22 v2
H = 102( M2 − M1 ) + − 1 (19)
2g 2g

Efficiency (η) could be calculated by Equation (16)

ρgQH
η= × 100% (20)
1000P
 Energies 2018, 11, 1444 19 of 21

Here, P is the inlet power, which could be measured by torque and speed sensor 2.
Hydraulic performance curves of the improved centrifugal pump and the original centrifugal
pump were shown in Figure 25. Experimental results indicated that head and efficiency of the
improved centrifugal pump were higher than that of the original centrifugal pump. Under low flow
rate condition (0.8 Qd ), the head increased by 3.76 m and the efficiency increased by 3.84%. With
rated flow rate condition (1.0 Qd ), the head increased by 2.74 m and the efficiency increased by 5.77%,
Energies 2018, 11,
separately. Forx FOR PEER
high REVIEW
flow 19 of
rate condition (1.2 Qd ), the head and efficiency increased by 2.67 m and 20
5.0%,
respectively. The experimental results indicated that the optimized design is successful.

100
60
80
55

Efficiency η/%
60
Head H/m

50

45 40

40 Head of original centrifugal pump 20

Head of improved centrifugal pump
35 Efficiency of original centrifugal pump
Efficiency of improved centrifugal pump
0
30
0 200 400 600 800 1000
3
Flow rate Q/m /h

Figure25.
Figure Hydraulicperformance
25.Hydraulic performanceofofimproved
improvedand
andoriginal
originalcentrifugal
centrifugalpump.
pump.

8.8.Conclusions
Conclusions

InInthis
thispaper,
paper,effects
effectsofofblade
bladeexit
exitangle
angleand
andblade
bladewrap
wrapangle
angleononthe
theoptimized
optimizeddesign
designofofthe
the
impellerwere
impeller werecomprehensively
comprehensivelyinvestigated.
investigated.Flows
Flowsininthe
thecentrifugal
centrifugalpump
pumpwith
withfive
fivedifferent
different
impellersunder
impellers underlow lowflow
flowrate,
rate,rated
ratedflow
flowrate,
rate,and
andhigh
highflow
flowrate
ratewere
werenumerically
numericallysimulated.
simulated.
Variations of static
Variations staticpressure,
pressure,relative velocity,
relative streamlines,
velocity, and turbulent
streamlines, kinetickinetic
and turbulent energy were
energyanalyzed.
were
Head andHead
analyzed. efficiency of the centrifugal
and efficiency pump of different
of the centrifugal pump of schemes were
different compared.
schemes wereThe experimental
compared. The
head and efficiency of the centrifugal pump with the best impeller were compared
experimental head and efficiency of the centrifugal pump with the best impeller were compared with that of the
original
with that impeller. The main
of the original conclusions
impeller. The main areconclusions
as follows: are as follows:
(1) The
Theimpeller
impellerwith withblade
bladewrap
wrapangle
angle126° ◦ and blade exit angle 24◦ was the best one.
126and
(1) blade exit angle 24° was the best one.
(2) For
(2) Forthe
thebest
bestimpeller,
impeller,static
staticpressure
pressureand andrelative
relativevelocity
velocitywas
wasthe themost
mostuniform
uniformdistribution.
distribution.
Streamlines were the smoothest and vortices did not exist. Compared
Streamlines were the smoothest and vortices did not exist. Compared with other impellers, with other impellers,
the
the distribution scope of turbulent kinetic energy in the best impeller
distribution scope of turbulent kinetic energy in the best impeller under all flow rate under all flow rate conditions
was the smallest.
conditions was the smallest.
(3) For the centrifugal
(3) For the centrifugal pump pumpwith
withoptimized
optimizedimpeller,
impeller,headheadand
andefficiency
efficiencywere
werehigher
higherthan
thanthat
thatofof
theoriginal
the originalpump.pump.With Withlow
lowflow
flowrate (0.8QQ
rate(0.8 d ),
d), thethehead
headand
andefficiency
efficiencyincreased
increasedby by3.76
3.76mmand
and
3.84%.With
3.84%. Withrated
ratedflow flowrate,
rate,the
thehead
headandandefficiency
efficiencyincreased
increasedby by2.74
2.74mmand
and5.77%.
5.77%.With
Withhigh
high
flowrate
flow (1.2QQ
rate(1.2 d),d ),
thethe head
head andand efficiency
efficiency increasedbyby2.67
increased 2.67mmandand5.0%.
5.0%.

Author
AuthorContributions:
Contributions:X.H.
X.H.and
and Y.K. presented the
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experiments. X.H.
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D.L. the numerical
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the numerical and performed
simulation the experiment.
and performed W.Z. analyzed
the experiment. the data.
W.Z. analyzed theX.H.
data.wrote
X.H.the paper.
wrote the
paper.
Acknowledgments: This research is financially supported by the National Key Basic Research Program of China
(no. 2014CB239203), the National Natural Science Foundation of China (no. 51474158), and the Hubei Provincial
Acknowledgments: This research is financially supported by the National Key Basic Research Program of
Natural Science Foundation of China (no. 2016CFA088). We deeply acknowledge the help of Hubei Key Laboratory
China (no. 2014CB239203),
of Waterjet Theory and New theTechnology,
National Natural
SchoolScience Foundation
of Energy and Power of China (no. 51474158),
Engineering of LanzhouandUniversity
the Hubeiof
Provincial Natural
Technology, Science Foundation
and Shanghai of China (no. 2016CFA088). We deeply acknowledge the help of Hubei
Kaiquan Group.
Key Laboratory of Waterjet Theory and New Technology, School of Energy and Power Engineering of Lanzhou
Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest.
University of Technology, and Shanghai Kaiquan Group.

Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest.

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