Numerical Analysis on Asymmetrical Distribution of Flow Field and Radial Force for a Centrifugal Pump

Centrifugal pump is one of the most important energy conversion device widely used in almost all industrial fields. Improving operating performance of pump is of great significance for energy saving and safety in production. The asymmetrical distribution of flow field and radial force that will cause flow-induced vibrations which reduce operating stability and reliability of centrifugal pump were analyzed by steady simulation of 3-D turbulent flow for different flow rates using CFX code. The k-omega turbulence model based on SST near wall formulation was applied. The results indicate that, flow field, especially velocity within passages of impeller and static pressure at the impeller outlet, are asymmetric and the asymmetry is more obvious for low flow rate; the radial force changes versus different flow rates, and the amplitude of radial force reaches a minimum under design condition. The study supplied important foundation for vibration analysis and reliability improving of centrifugal pumps.