Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1 sahand university of technology
2 Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Sahand University of Technology, Tabriz, Iran
Abstract
This study investigates the performance of vortex pumps by focusing on impeller design to improve efficiency and operational capabilities. Vortex pumps are valuable in industries that handle fluids containing solids including wastewater treatment and mining due to their clog-resistant design. However, these pumps often suffer from lower efficiency compared to centrifugal pumps. To address this issue, the study employs Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations to analyze various impeller configurations including adjustments to blade count, shape and height. The simulations reveal that a 12-blade impeller configuration significantly enhances pump performance, achieving an increase in head by 4.85 meters and efficiency by 5.46% over the baseline design. These findings provide valuable insights for the vortex pump design, emphasizing that blade configuration especially blade count and angle has a more significant effect on performance than blade height. The results encourage the use of modified impellers to enhance energy efficiency and longevity in industrial applications involving solid-laden fluids.
Keywords
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