Investigation of Pump Impeller Performance using CFD

Objectives: Impeller is the rotating component of a centrifugal pump which imparts kinetic energy on the working fluid. The present work is concentrated on the optimization of geometry of the impeller to increase the efficiency of centrifugal pump. Methods/Statistical Analysis: The L9 orthogonal array table is formed by taking the parameters such as impeller width, number of blades and inlet diameter and outlet blade angle as control factors and efficiency as response. The impeller is modelled using the software Pro_E and the analysed using CFD software Fluent 6.3 by assuming the steady, incompressible and viscous flow condition for the working fluid. Findings: The optimization technique is carried out based on taguchi concept with the aid of CFD software. From the contribution ratio values it is found that the parameter Number of Blades contributes a significant portion in affecting the pump efficiency. Based on the values of pressure, discharge and torque obtained from the software, the corresponding values of efficiencies are calculated. Application/Improvement: Using larger the better quality characteristics, the geometry of the impeller is optimized for maximum efficiency.