PIV investigation on the flow in a model centrifugal blood pump

PIV method was applied to measure the flow in a model centrifugal blood pump. The velocity distributions and streamlines on 4 cross sections within the impeller were analyzed. In the PIV tests, saturated solution of sodium iodide was used as the working fluid to match the refraction index and LIF seeding particles were employed. It is indicated that irregular flow patterns presented in the results, including impacts of flow on the leading edge of blades, vortices in the impeller, irregular streamlines and stagnation regions could lead to blood damage. Hydraulic design and structure of the pump need to be modified.