Experimental and Numerical Investigation on Effect of Rib Geometrical Design Parameter on Hydraulic Performance of a High-Pressure Multistage Pump

A double-volute centrifugal pump plays an important role in various industries due to its enhanced hydraulic efficiency and ability to balance radial and axial forces. This study investigates the effect of discharge channel rib geometry on the hydraulic performance of a high-pressure multistage pump, installed in Goureh-Jask Oil Pipeline. These parameters include rib length, thickness, starting angle, and installation position. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulation in real scale, were employed to analyze the impact of rib geometric parameters on the head, efficiency and mechanical power of the pump. Numerical results demonstrated a ۴.۴۳% average deviation from experimental outcomes, confirming model reliability. The findings indicated that rib design significantly affected pump performance, with different configurations excelling at various flow rates. Removing the rib increased the head, but slightly reduced efficiency due to higher radial and axial forces. Thicker ribs generally led to higher discharge head, particularly at low flow rates, while a medium thickness rib showed higher efficiency and lower mechanical power. The standard rib balanced efficiency and power consumption, while the rib with a starting angle of ۴۵˚ performed better in high head conditions. Rib position had a moderate effect with the central rib position providing the best balance between head, efficiency, and power consumption. The results of turbulence intensity analysis revealed that considering the rib in pump discharge channel can help in reduction of turbulence and decrease the pump vibration. These outcomes provide practical insights for optimizing multistage pump designs, enhancing their efficiency and adaptability in industrial applications.

Keywords:

Centrifugal pump , High-pressure multistage pump , Pump performance optimization , Discharge rib , Double-volute casing , Computational Fluid Dynamics