Cavitation simulation and NPSH prediction of a double suction centrifugal pump

Abstract

This paper illustrates the flow field numerical analysis of the double-suction centrifugal pump. For the study of the cavitation flow inside the double-suction centrifugal pump, the professional pump/motor simulation software PumpLinx and its Full Cavitation Model has been employed. According to the PumpLinx calculation result and the Cavitation damage index, the cavitation position, level and the cavitation characteristics of the double-suction centrifugal pump has been predicted. For the further objective, the simulation of the flow field in the double-suction centrifugal pump under different inlet conditions has been carried out. By the result analysis, NPSHr has been predicted; the reliability of the results has been verified by comparing with the experimental data. At the same time, this practice can provide guidance for the optimal design of double-suction pump. © Published under licence by IOP Publishing Ltd.