Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) for Predicting and Enhancing Intake Flow Problems of Pumping Stations

Abstract

The disturbance in velocity distribution generates hydraulic instability of pumping units, which leads to failure, damage and other operation and maintenance difficulties. The objective of this research is to predict and enhance the hydraulic problems in the sump intake of El-Tabya pumping station. The station consists of six axial pumping large units with discharge of 7 m 3 /sec for each unit, 5.5 static head. Three-dimensional Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model is used to simulate the flow conditions at different working pumping units and different water levels to predict the hydraulic problem at the suction side. In this study, five different cases were studied at existing operating conditions and when add routers in suction sump. The research show that existing sump shape generates swirl flow and appear dead zones in the inner curvature of the intake when operate six units at the same time. The installation of routers with curvature length 6 m and width 0.5 m for each pump reduce the pre-swirling surface flow and improves the suction flow condition.