Development of Mathematical Model for Centrifugal

Pump Used in Typical Combat Aircraft

A PROJECT REPORT / THESIS

Submitted in partial fulfilment for the award of the degree of

B. Tech
in

Mechanical Engineering /
Mechanical (Specialization in Energy Engineering)
by

Mohammad Raqib – 15BEM0034

Akshay Galgunde – 15BME0621
Ajay Deshpande – 15BME0813

School of Mechanical Engineering

April 2019
Project ID Winter2018/SMEC/B.Tech/Mechanical /specialization in energy
/B18INOTH014

Date of Review 05-04-2019

Prof. Govindha Rasu. N
VIT Guide
Student 1
Project Team Members
1. Name: Mohammad raqib
2. Reg. No: 15BEM0034
3. Email: mohammad.raqib2015@vit.ac.in
4. Mobile: 9636254545
Student 2
1. Name: Akshay Galgunde
2. Reg. No: 15BME0621
3. Email: akshay.galgunde2015@vit.ac.in
4. Mobile: 8825538175
Student 3
1. Name: Ajay Deshpande
2. Reg. No: 15BME0813
3. Email: deshpandeajay.shivram2015@vit.ac.in
4. Mobile: 9445834581
Guide’s Remarks

Name and Signature of the guide

Comments of Reviewer(s)

Name and Signature of the

Reviewer
 EXCUTIVE SUMMARY

A mathematical model of closed impeller centrifugal pump is developed. The closed

impeller pump is used in the fuel system of a typical combat aircrafts. For solving the equations
Simulink and MATLAB codes has been utilised. As a first step to verify the methodology ideal
case validation (without considering the losses) is carried out. In the step towards the actual
case modelling, the impeller profile equation is generated using least square curve fitting
method. As a next step all the losses including boundary layer loss, incidence loss and slip
factor loss have been modelled individually. MATLAB code is used for calculation of
boundary layer loss and for modelling other losses Simulink is used.. Final model is made in
Simulink including all the losses. Variation of all the losses are plotted against the flow rate.
Pump characteristics viz, total head, NPSH, hydraulic efficiency and power are evaluated.
Design flow rate can be obtained from pump characteristics. The Inlet blade angle, outlet
blade angle, number of blades are varied as a parameter to evaluate the performance of actual
centrifugal pump. All these parameters are plotted against the flow rate to evaluate the
performance of pump.

Keywords: centrifugal pump, mathematical model, Simulink, MATLAB

i
 TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHP NO. TITLE PAGE NO.
Acknowledgement i
Executive summary ii
Table of content iii
List of tables iv
List of figures v
List of symbols and abbreviations vi
1 1.1 Introduction 1
1.2 Literature Review 2
1.3 Scope of the work 3
1.4 Knowledge gained from the literature 3
1.5 Gaps identified 3
1.6 Objectives of the project 4
1.7 Gantt chart 4
2 2.1 Methodology 5
2.2 About Simulink 6
2.3 Ideal case equations 9
2.4 Inlet velocity triangle 10
2.5 Simulink model of ideal case 13
2.6 Validation 13
2.7 Impeller profile equation 14
2.8 Boundary layer loss in impeller 18
2.9 Incidence loss 21
2.10 Slip factor loss 24
2.11 Actual condition validation 27
3 3.1 Variation of ideal head, actual head and losses with 28
flow rate.
3.2 Pump characteristic 28
3.3 Parametric study 30
3.4 Summary 33
4 4.1 Reference 34
4.2 Appendix -1 36

ii
 LIST OF TABLES

Table No. Title Page No.

Table 2.1 Math operations used in Simulink. 19
Table 2.2 Source and sinks used in Simulink. 20
Table 2.3 Least square curve fitting method for impeller profile. 29
Table 2.4 Actual condition validation. 39
Table 3.1 Variation of Ideal head, Actual head and losses with flow 40
rate.
Table 3.2 Pump Characteristics 41
Table 3.3 Variation in outlet blade angle. 42
Table 3.4 Variation in inlet blade angle. 43
Table 3.5 Variation in number of blades 43

iii
 LIST OF FIGURES

Fig No. Title Page No.

Fig 1.1 Types of impeller 12
Fig 1.2 Gantt chart 16
Fig 2.1 Flow chart 18
Fig 2.2 Simulink subsystem for radial velocity calculation 21
Fig 2.3 Impeller profile with inlet and outlet velocity triangles 22
Fig 2.4 Inlet velocity triangle 23
Fig. 2.5 Simulink block for radial velocity 24
Fig 2.6 Simulink block for velocity output 25
Fig. 2.7 Simulink model for ideal case analysis 26
Fig. 2.8 Comparison of total head 27
Fig. 2.9 Sample profile of impeller 28
Fig 2.10 Variation of boundary layer loss for water and ATF ASME D 1665 34
Fig 2.11 Variation of head loss due to boundary layer with viscosity. 35
Fig.2.12 Velocity triangle for Incidence loss 36
Fig 2.13 Simulink block for Incidence loss 36
Fig2.14 Variation of head loss due to incidence loss with flow rate. 37
Fig 2.15 Velocity triangle for slip factor loss. 38
Fig2.16 Simulink block for slip factor loss 42
Fig2.17 Variation of head loss due to slip factor with flow rate.
Fig2.18 Simulink model for actual centrifugal pump.
Fig 3.1 Effect of flowrate on various losses. 40
Fig 3.2 Variation of pump characteristics with flowrate. 41
Fig 3.3 Variation in outlet blade angle with flowrate. 42
Fig 3.4 Variation in inlet blade angle with flowrate. 43
Fig 3.5 Variation in number of blades with flowrate 44

iv
 LIST OF SYMBOLS AND ABBREVIATIONS

Parameter Name Unit

𝛽1 Blade inlet angle Degree
𝛽2 Blade outlet angle Degree
𝑟1 Impeller eye radius m
𝑟2 Impeller radius m
𝑢1 Inlet peripheral velocity m/sec
𝑢2 Outlet peripheral velocity m/sec
𝑤1 Relative velocity at inlet m/sec
𝑤2 Relative velocity at outlet m/sec
𝐶1 Absolute velocity at inlet m/sec
𝐶2 Absolute velocity at outlet m/sec
𝐶𝑟1 Radial velocity at inlet m/sec
𝐶𝑟2 Radial velocity at outlet m/sec
𝑁 Impeller speed r.p.m.
𝜃 Blade wrap angle Degree
є Wrap angle ratio Non-dimensional variable
d Increment in circle radius m
𝑄 Flow rate m3
𝜌 Density of fluid Kg/m3
𝜇 Dynamic viscosity of fluid Ns/m2
𝐿 Length of impeller blade m
n Number of blades Non-dimensional variable
t Thickness of blade m
o
T Temperature C

v
 CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION AND LITERATURE REVIEW

1.1 INTRODUCTION

A combat aircraft fuel system consists many pumps which are required to transfer fuel
from auxiliary fuel tank to feeder/supply tank. Hydraulic pumps convert energy of a prime
mover into hydraulic or pressure energy. It generates flow with enough power to overcome
pressure induced by load. The pump ratings various in terms of pressure, flow, sizes, etc.
depends on fuel transfer system requirements, which in turns depend on fuel demand by engine.
These Centrifugal pumps are driven by AC electrical power. To establish the performance of
these centrifugal pump at different altitude, there is a requirement to develop mathematical
model.
Centrifugal pump is sub-class of turbomachinery. It’s a mechanical device which uses
rotational energy from electric motor to drive the impeller. Fluid enter the pump along its axis
and rotate with impeller, gain the momentum from centrifugal force and exit the pump through
impeller vane’s tip rapidly
There are various type of centrifugal pump distinguish by type of impeller. Generally there is
three type of impeller 1.open impeller, 2.semi open impeller 3.closed impeller. Open impeller
are structurally weak, prone to leakage, used in smaller pump easier to clean and used for liquid
with suspended solid and have a low cost. Semi open impeller have average strength they are
easier to clean but also prone to leakage. On the other hand closed impeller have the highest
mechanical strength in all three impeller, have high cost but higher efficiency and used in
aerospace application, which make closed impeller perfect for this project.

Open impeller Semi open impeller Closed impeller

Fig 1.1 Types of impeller

1
 1.2 LITERATURE

Petro Gogolyuk et al .200411- Combined modelling of centrifugal pump and synchronous

motor. Equations of interrelations are formed based on the balance of mechanical powers of
CP’s impeller and SM’s. Rotor do not include efficient mathematical models of a number of
loads that consist of devices with different physical nature Gordana Janevska. 20134-- The
mathematical model is developed by analysing the dynamics of the system and it is based on
the basic laws of physics and fluid mechanics. The linearized mathematical model obtained on
the basis of realistically adopted and critically studied assumptions is manipulated into state
space form. This paper is mostly focused on design of pump Khin Cho Thin et al8 .-- Single
stage centrifugal pump used Pump driven by ihp electric motor various mathematical equation
used to get the dimensions of pump Using various variable parameter performance curve is
printed between flow ,and head for different losses Kaliappan et al.14 -- This paper is study to
improve the performance by enhancing the conventional impeller design .A comparison study
is done between a conventional impeller ‘A’ and a redesigned impeller ‘B’ to show the
improvement in impeller performance .the g a coupled, multilevel design and optimization
techniques are used to redesign the impeller . result is presented to show the improvement done
by the study Daniela Popescu et al.3 -- This paper is based on a comparative study of pumps in
series using a variable speed drive This model is able to check efficiency at different variable
speed. This model can produce result for different type of flow rate.Mahmud et al, (2012)10
evaluated the performance of centrifugal pump driven by IC Engine for varying suction lifts
between 0.5m to 9m keeping the delivery head as constant. This evaluation was done for three
speeds. As the suction lift increases discharge decreases. Ajinkya Sonune et al, (2017)1 noted
that the large blade exit angle increases the head generation with increased input power
consumption. They used blade exit angle of 20o, 30o, 40o. They used numerical analysis tools
to plot the head vs discharge graphs at different blade, exit angles. alawu Enesi, (2017)6
calculated the shaft diameter, shaft length, hub diameter, hub length and shaft key for
centrifugal pump delivering 9 m3/hr, head of 30 m operating at 2900 rpm. They designed the
pump for production point of view. R.B. Grover and S.M. Koranne, (1981)12 developed
transient startup torque equation analytically. It considers theoretical discharge torque, inertia
torque due to pump mass at accelerating and decelerating pump speed. The frictional resistance
is assumed in term of rotating speed. By analyzing the equations pressure and flow is plotted
against time. Increasing moment of inertia and frictional resistance increases time required to
attend steady state conditions. Junhui Zhang et al, (2017)7 studies the effect of cylinder block
moment of inertia on the performance of piston pump. The effect is analysed by varying tilting
angle and mass of cylinder block. This study is important to reduce wear and effectively
leakages in pump. Factors also affect starting and stopping time in transient state. Marijonas
Bogdevičius, (2016) The effect of nitrogen gas present in the water on pump performance. The
study takes changes in density, specific heat into consideration. The effect of inlet pressure on
the compressibility of water gas mixture is analyzed. Effect of variation in pressure,
gravitational acceleration is useful in analysing centrifugal pump. Rizwan-uddin, (1994)13 The
pump head and pump speed are assumed as a function of time with various powers. The
coefficients are found out by comparing the equation with experiments results at various time.

2
For the steady state condition, the value pump head and pump head are found out by
substituting time as infinity. Comparison between analytical equation and experimental result
is therefore used for other cases. Imhade Okokpujie, (2017) In this paper centrifugal pump is
studied from design point of view. The torque on the shaft is calculated and the shaft diameter
is calculated by selecting steel as a material. Likewise shaft length, hub diameter, hub length,
shaft coupling, shaft key etc. are designed. These dimensions are designed for flow rate of 9-
meter cube per hr, head of 30 m and 2900 rpm. Clarence John Levey (1911)2 The pressure head
is found out considering friction with help of velocity triangles but relation of friction head
with other parameters is not mentioned. Relation between peripheral velocity and total head is
derived. V. Rusedski (2010)5-- Torue flor driving the pump is derived in terms of moment of
inertia, discharge. Friction torque, viscous torque is assumed in terms of speed and flow rate.
The constants are found experimentally for given system. Jun Wang, (2014) analyzed the
performance of centrifugal pump with help of naiver stoke equation and VC programming. The
pump model is developed in the Solidworks. This paper is used in the calculation of inlet
boundary conditions for the flow, and assuming that the inlet velocity distribution uniformity,
outlet boundary conditions is pressure and outlet pressure is uniform. Optimum operational
range is found out by plotting performance parameter against pump speed.

1.2 SCOPE OF THE WORK

The constructed Simulink model of centrifugal pump will be able to predict

the performance of centrifugal pump. It will also help us to understand the role of inlet blade
angle, outlet blade angle and number of blades in performance of pump. The Simulink model
later help in various parametric study. In future the work can be used to minimise the time to
design a pump with desired characteristic

1.3 KNOWLEDGE GAINED FROM LITERATURE

The basic equation used for mathematical model Basic factor affect the
performance of centrifugal pump Learned about the approaches to calculate different losses in
pump like boundary layer loss, incidence loss, slip factor loss etc. Also gained knowledge about
different approaches to calculate performance in MATLAB.

1.4 GAPS IDENTIFIED

The following scope identified from the literature survey

 There are various studies on centrifugal pump but they all exist for given
condition’s and there is no study for generalized condition of centrifugal
pump
 The effect of individual losses is not studied separately in previous literature
 There is no generalised mathematical model exist for centrifugal pump

3
1.5 OBJECTIVES OF THE WORK
 Derivation of basic equations for centrifugal pump
 Validation of methodology by comparing with ideal case
 Developing mathematical model for actual case centrifugal pump
 Using Simulink/ MATLAB to estimate the performance characteristics of
centrifugal pump

1.6 GANTT CHART

14-Dec 01-Jan 19-Jan 06-Feb 24-Feb 14-Mar 01-Apr

LITERATURE SURVEY

PPT /REPORT MAKING

COLLETION OF EQUATION

DERIVATION OF BASIC…

PPT /REPORT MAKING

DEVELOPMENT BASIC…

PERFORMANCE CURVE

REPORT MAKING

submission of final report

Fig 1.2 Gantt chart

4
 CHAPTER 2

2.1 METHODOLOGY
First, the basic equations were derived for centrifugal pump to get to the needed
equation. Then Simulink was used to develop a mathematical model of centrifugal pump.
Simulink, is constructed by MathWorks, it gives a graphical programme used for modelling,
simulating multi domain dynamical systems. It is a graphical block flowchart tool and a
changeable set of block library. Using Simulink, we constructed a model of centrifugal pump
demonstrating the derivate equation of centrifugal pump. Then, Simulink model of centrifugal
pump for ideal case is created. The results from this model are compared with existing literature
to validate the present methodology. The impeller profile equation is found out using curve
fitting method, and the profile is used in finding the bounder layer loss in impeller. The
incidence loss equation is derived for pump without inlet vanes. The Simulink model for losses
is incorporated in ideal model to found out real performance.

Fig 2.1 Flow chart

5
2.2 ABOUT SIMULINK

In the present work Simulink is used as a tool which shows all the equations
used in the mathematical modelling in the form of a flow chart containing blocks. This is the
easiest and fastest way of solving number of equations simultaneously within short period of
time. Outputs can be obtained as a single value or in the form of graphs. Hence it is very useful
in case of parametric study.

2.2.1 Math Operations Used in Simulink

Since the present work is about mathematical modelling, it contains
mathematical equations. With the help of Simulink these equations are represented in a
Simulink model which contains various blocks. Each block has its own significance.
Mathematical equations contain different types of operations such algebraic, trigonometric and
exponential etc. Therefore Simulink model contains blocks which performs these operations.
Mathematical operations used in the present work and their corresponding block diagram used
in Simulink model are listed in the table below.

Table 2.1 Math operations used in Simulink.

No Name Symbol Description
1 Add Adds two entities.

2 Subtract Subtracts second entity from first one.

3 Divide First entity divided by second entity.

4 Product Product of two entities.

5 Gain Multiplication by a constant. In the present

work it is used for multiplication of constants
2𝜋
such as gravitational constant 𝑔 = 9.81 and
60
(used in conversion of angular speed from
r.p.m to rad/s).
6 Trigonometric Includes trigonometric functions such as sin,
functions cos, tan, sin-1, cos-1, tan-1 etc. User can choose
any one among these as per requirement.

6
 7 Math Function It includes logarithmic and power related
predefined functions such as exponential,
logarithmic, square, power, reciprocal etc.

2.2.2 Sources and Sinks Used in Simulink

Sources indicates all the input variables. The inputs given to any blocks can be
constant or variable input. Sink is the output side of the model.

Table 2.2 Source and sinks used in Simulink

No Name Symbol Description
1 Constant input It is used to give the numerical value
(source) to the input variable. In the present
work it is used to assign value for
the input variables such as number
of blades, eye diameter, impeller
diameter, inlet and outlet blade
angles, impeller speed (r.p.m), flow
rate, impeller width, blade thickness
etc.
2 Variable input It is similar to the constant input
(source) except in this case a range of input
value can e given. It is useful while
doing the parametric study.
3 Input port Indicates the input port. Used for
(source) showing the input ports of a
subsystem thereby making it simple
to identify the input variables going
into a subsystem.
4 Output port Indicates the output port. Used for
(sink) showing the output ports of a
subsystem thereby making it simple
to identify the outputs coming from
a subsystem.
5 Display Shows the output of a model in the
(sink) form of numerical value.

6 Scope Shows the output of a model in the

(sink) form of numerical graph. Useful in
parametric study.

7
2.2.3 Subsystem

Depending upon the number of equations used in mathematical modelling of a

particular problem, the number of blocks used in the Simulink model will go on increasing and
hence the size of the model will increase. In order to make it more user friendly such large size
models can be replaced by the single block which is known as subsystem. Subsystem contains
all the mathematical operations included in the model. Double clicking the subsystem will open
the original large size model. Subsystems provides a better way of utilizing the Simulink
workspace.
In the present work there are two Simulink models representing the ideal case
and real case. In ideal case model three subsystems are used. Two of which are used to represent
all the equations used in solving inlet and outlet velocity triangles of centrifugal pump. Third
one is used for getting the specific work. In real case model totally five subsystems have been
used. First three subsystems are similar to that of the ideal case. Forth subsystem includes the
mathematical equations related to incidence loss. Fifth subsystem represents the equations used
in determining the slip factor loss.
The subsystem used for calculation of radial velocities is shown below. All the
input variables that goes into a subsystem are listed on the left hand side of the block and the
output generated are shown on the right hand side of the block. All the input ports are connected
to their corresponding input sources. Similarly all the output ports are connected to the
corresponding sinks or can be used as input in another subsystem. In this subsystem flow rate,
impeller radius, impeller width, inlet radius, number of blades and thickness of blades etc. are
the variables representing input ports from top to bottom.

Fig 2.2 Simulink subsystem for radial velocity calculation.

8
2.3 IDEAL CASE EQUATIONS

To calculate the ideal case head it is necessary to calculate the specific work.
Specific work is the amount of energy gained by the fluid per unit mass of the fluid due to the
centrifugal effect of the rotating impeller between inlet and outlet of the impeller. Specific work
is equal to the change in amount of kinetic energy of fluid. In centrifugal pump impeller there
are three types of velocities named as peripheral velocity (also known as whirl velocity),
relative velocity and absolute velocity. These velocities are considered in calculation of specific
work. These three types of velocities have different values at inlet and outlet of the impeller.
Hence change in the values of these velocities constitute the specific work.
In order to calculate these three types of velocities concept of velocity triangles
are used universally. There are two velocity triangles one at inlet and other at the outlet of the
impeller. The input parameters needed for calculating velocities are impeller speed, blade inlet
and outlet angles, impeller passage width, thickness of the blades, inlet and outlet radii of
impeller and flow rate through the impeller.

Fig 2.3 Impeller profile with inlet and outlet velocity triangles

9
2.4 INLET VELOCITY TRIANGLE:

𝛽1 is the blade angle at inlet, which is the angle between the blade profile and
the tangent to the inlet radius. Similarly 𝛽2 is the outlet blade angle.

Fig 2.4 Inlet velocity triangle

The direction of the peripheral velocity is given by tangent at the inlet radius
of the impeller pointing in the direction of angular velocity of impeller. The direction of the
relative velocity is generated by drawing tangent to the blade profile at inlet. The absolute
velocity is the resultant of the relative velocity and peripheral velocity. In the above figure the
peripheral velocity and the radial velocity were calculated from the input parameters.
Peripheral velocity is given as.

2𝜋𝑁𝑟1
𝑢1 =
60

The radial velocity at the inlet is given as

𝑄
𝐶𝑟1 =
2𝜋𝑟1 𝑏 − 𝑛𝑡𝑏

Simulink model for calculating the radial velocities at inlet and outlet of the impeller is
shown in the fig. The figure 2.5 gives the radial velocity component at inlet and outlet of the
impeller. The inputs used are the flow rate, impeller radius, width of impeller at outlet, number
of blades, blade thickness, impeller eye diameter and width of impeller at inlet. In order to save
the space this model is converted into the subsystem.

10
 Fig.2.5 Simulink block for radial velocity

Also the blade inlet angle 𝛽1 is known from the impeller geometry. From these known
parameters the relative and absolute velocities were calculated by the procedure given below.

𝐶𝑟1
𝑤1 =
𝑠𝑖𝑛𝛽1

𝐶𝜃1 = 𝑢1 − 𝑤1 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝛽1

𝑐𝑜𝑠𝛽1
𝐶𝜃1 = 𝑢1 − 𝐶𝑟1
𝑠𝑖𝑛𝛽1

𝐶𝜃1 = 𝑢1 − 𝐶𝑟1 𝑐𝑜𝑡𝛽1

𝐶1 = √(𝐶𝜃1 )2 + (𝐶𝑟1 )2

Using above equations, a Simulink model for the inlet velocity triangle is built. The
figure 2.6 is the subsystem which solves the velocity triangle. The left-hand side shows the
inputs and the right-hand side shows the output. The input for this model is radial velocity
which is directly taken from the Simulink model for radial velocity. Other inputs are inlet blade
angle, inlet radius and angular speed of the impeller. From this model the absolute, relative and
peripheral velocities are obtained. This model is also converted into a subsystem for
convenience.

11
 Fig.2.6 Simulink block for velocity output

Similar analysis exist for the velocity triangle at the outlet of the impeller. All
the equations used in the inlet velocity triangle are same.
There are two equations used for calculating specific work.

1
𝑊= [(𝑢2 2 − 𝑢1 2 ) + (𝐶1 2 − 𝐶2 2 ) + (𝑊2 2 − 𝑊1 2 )]
2
OR
𝑊 = 𝑢2 𝐶𝜃2 − 𝑢1 𝐶𝜃1

Any one from the above equations can be used.

From the specific work, head generated in the impeller is calculated by the formula

𝑊
𝐻=
𝑔
1
∴𝐻= [(𝑢2 2 − 𝑢1 2 ) + (𝐶1 2 − 𝐶2 2 ) + (𝑊2 2 − 𝑊1 2 )] . . (𝑖)
2𝑔
OR
𝑢2 𝐶𝜃2 − 𝑢1 𝐶𝜃1
𝐻=
𝑔

After considering all the above equations complete Simulink model for the ideal case head
generated in the impeller was created.

12
2.5 SIMULINK MODEL FOR IDEAL CASE

Combining the three subsystems a Simulink model for obtaining the ideal case
head was created.

Fig.2.7 Simulink model for ideal case analysis

2.6 VALIDATION

To confirm that the method that is being adopted is right, it is necessary to validate the
results obtained by present model. So, comparison between the previously available data
provided by Hongchang Ding et al (2019) “The influence of blade outlet angle on the
performance of centrifugal pump with high specific speed” and present model is made. All the
parameters like the impeller diameter, inlet and outlet blade angles, blade thickness, blade
width, impeller speed etc. are kept exactly equal and the graphs are plotted. This comparison
is shown in the fig.2.8. The maximum error found is equal to 7%. So, the model is validated.
The values obtained from the Simulink model and the values given in the paper were
compared in the plot shown below.

13
 Fig.2.8 Comparison of total head

2.7 IMPELLER PROFILE EQUATION:

The design of impeller profile is done with plotting points on reference circles with
constant increment in increase of circle radius. The angle covered by the impeller arc at origin
is called as wrap angle. The wrap angle is divided into equal parts such that there should be
given number of points to draw a spline line through the points. Here the wrap angle is divided
into 9 equal parts to get 10 points to draw spline profile of impeller. The constant increment in
increase of radius is found out by dividing the difference between outer radius and inner radius
by 45 for 10-point plotting.

To find the generalized equation of impeller profile least square curve fitting method is
used. Curve fitting is procedure for finding the relation between dependent and independent
variables by using given data for dependent and independent variables. The procedure for least
square curve fitting depends on the degree of equation for which the curve fitting is done. In
given case the degree of equation is two i.e. the impeller profile equation is a quadratic
equation. For second degree equation the four moments are needed to found out. Here the
independent variable is the angle. The dependent variable is radius in polar co-ordinates. The
moments found out by adding the values of moment at each point is compare to find the set of
linear simultaneous equation which will be solved using the Cramer’s rule.

Addition of all the difference between successive circles is equal to the difference
between the inner and outer radius.

d + 2d + 3d + 4d + 5d + 6d + 7d + 8d + 9d = 𝑟2 − 𝑟1

𝑟2 − 𝑟1
𝑑= … . (𝑖𝑖)
45

14
 Fig.2.9 Sample profile of impeller

The co-ordinated are given in the polar form with wrap angle, inner radius, and outer
radius as the parameters for generalised case. Here r is radius of impeller at given angle. The
profile assumed to be in quadratic form with A and B as constant to be found out.

Let
𝑟 = 𝑟1 + 𝐴𝜃 + 𝐵𝜃 2
Using least square curve fitting method,

𝑉 = 𝑟1 + 𝐴𝑢 + 𝐵𝑢2

15
 Table 2.3 Least square curve fitting method for impeller profile.
Sr. 𝑢 𝑉 𝑢𝑉 𝑢2 𝑢2 𝑉 𝑢3
No
0 0є 𝑟1 + 0 є(0) 0є2 0є2 0є3
1 10є 𝑟1 + 𝑑 є(10𝑟1 + 10𝑑) 100є2 (100𝑟1 1000є3
+ 100𝑑)є2
2 20є 𝑟1 + 3𝑑 є(20𝑟1 + 60𝑑) 400є2 (400𝑟1 8000є3
+ 1200𝑑)є2
3 30є 𝑟1 + 6𝑑 є(30𝑟1 + 180𝑑) 900є2 (900𝑟1 27000є3
+ 162000𝑑)є2
4 40є 𝑟1 + 10𝑑 є(40𝑟1 + 400𝑑) 1600є2 (1600𝑟1 64000є3
+ 640000𝑑)є2
5 50є 𝑟1 + 15𝑑 є(50𝑟1 + 750𝑑) 2500є2 (2500𝑟1 125000є3
+ 1875000𝑑)є2
6 60є 𝑟1 + 21𝑑 є(60𝑟1 + 1260𝑑) 3600є2 (3600𝑟1 216000є3
+ 4536000𝑑)є2
7 70є 𝑟1 + 28𝑑 є(70𝑟1 + 1960𝑑) 4900є2 (4900𝑟1 343000є3
+ 9604000𝑑)є2
8 80є 𝑟1 + 36𝑑 є(80𝑟1 + 2880𝑑) 6400є2 (6400𝑟1 512000є3
+ 18432000𝑑)є2
9 90є 𝑟1 + 45𝑑 є(90𝑟1 + 4050𝑑) 8100є2 (8100𝑟1 729000є3
+ 32805000𝑑)є2
∑𝑢 ∑𝑉 ∑𝑢𝑉 ∑𝑢2 ∑𝑢2 𝑉 ∑𝑢3
= 450є = 10𝑟1 = є(450𝑟1 = 28500є2 = (28500𝑟1 = 2025000є3
+ 165𝑑 + 11550𝑑) + 68055300)є2

∑𝑉 = ∑𝑛 + ∑𝑢 + ∑𝑢2
10𝑟1 + 165𝑑 = 10𝑟1 + 450є𝐵 + 28500є2 𝐶
∑𝑢𝑉 = ∑𝑢2 + ∑𝑢3
є(450𝑟1 + 11550𝑑) = 450є𝑟1 + 28500є2 𝐵 + 2025000є3 𝐶

Substituting d from equation (ii)

𝑟2 − 𝑟1
𝑑=
45
11
450є𝐴 + 28500є2 𝐵 = (𝑟2 − 𝑟1 ) ..(iii)
3
770
28500𝐴 + 2025000є3 𝐵 = (𝑟2 − 𝑟1 )є ..(iv)
3

16
Using Cramer’s Rule to solve (iii) and (iv)
The simultaneous equation can be represent by given matrix equation
11

| 450є 2 28500є |*|𝐴|=| 3 (𝑟2 − 𝑟1 ) |

2

28500є 2025000є3 𝐵 770 (𝑟2 − 𝑟1 )є

3

Using Cramer’s Rule

𝐷 = | 450є 2 28500є2 | = 99 × 106 є4

28500є 2025000є3

11
(𝑟2 − 𝑟1 ) 28500є2
𝐷𝑥 = | 3 | = 0.11 × 106 (𝑟2 − 𝑟1 )є3
770
(𝑟2 − 𝑟1 )є 2025000є3
3

11
450є (𝑟2 − 𝑟1 )
𝐷𝑦 = | 3 | = 0.011 × 106 (𝑟2 − 𝑟1 )є2
770
28500є2 (𝑟2 − 𝑟1 )є
3
𝐷𝑥 𝐷𝑦
𝐴= 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐵 =
𝐷 𝐷
0.11 0.011
𝐴= 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐵 =
99є 99є2
For generalised Wrap angle
𝜃 = є(90) , where є – wrap angle ratio

(𝑟2 −𝑟1 )𝜃 (𝑟2 −𝑟1 )𝜃2

∴ 𝑟 = 𝑟1 + + .... (v)
900є 9000є2

Here 𝜃 is in degrees.
Blade passage length is determined by integrating the blade profile equation from (v)

𝜃 (𝑟2 −𝑟1 )𝜃 (𝑟2 −𝑟1 )𝜃2 2 (𝑟2 −𝑟1 ) 2(𝑟2 −𝑟1 )𝜃 2

𝐿= ∫0 √(𝑟1 +
900є
+
9000є2
) +( 900є
+
9000є2
) 𝑑𝜃 …. (vi)

17
 SolidWorks is used to validate the generalised impeller profile equation. For drawing
the impeller profile the values of inner and outer radius is taken from reference paper. The
points are plotted at given angle and radius in polar co-ordinate system. The spline curve is
drawn joining these points to get the impeller profile. The length of spline curve is measured
using evaluate tool in SolidWorks. For validation the length of spline curve and the length of
the impeller profile from the equation is compared. The maximum error in impeller length is
1.5%. From this the impeller profile equation is validated. This impeller profile is used in
finding boundary layer loss.

2.8 BOUNDARY LAYER LOSS IN IMPELLER BLADES

Hagen Poiseuille formula for head loss in Newtonian fluid through circular pipe is
given by

8𝜇𝑄𝐿
𝐻𝑓 = ….(vii)
𝐴𝜌𝑔𝑟 2
Formula for head loss through circular pipe can be used for rectangular pipe by matching the
cross-sectional area of both pipes. The error due to the conversion is up to 4 percent in final
head loss. The length of the impeller (L) can be found out using impeller profile equation.
The width of impeller (b) is width for rectangular section at mean radius. The height is the arc
length between two impellers at mean radius.
Equating areas,
2𝜋(𝑟2 +𝑟1)
( − 𝑡) ∗ 𝑏 = 𝜋𝑟 2 ..(vii)
2𝑛

REYNOLD NUMBER at VARIOUS RADII (ri, ro, rmean )

𝜌𝑣𝑑 𝜌𝑄 4𝑎 4𝜌𝑄
𝑅𝑒 = = [ ]=
µ 𝑛µ𝑎 𝑃 𝑛µ𝑃
The above equation is the generalized equation with parameters in paper that were used for
validation.
Reynolds number in blade passage at radius equal to the inlet radius of impeller.
4𝜌𝑄
𝑅𝑒𝑖 (9.551)
𝑛µ
Reynolds number in blade passage at radius equal to the outlet radius of impeller.
4𝜌𝑄
𝑅𝑒𝑂 = (7.4156)
𝑛µ
Reynolds number in blade passage at mean radius which is equal to average of the inlet and
outlet radius of impeller.
4𝜌𝑄
𝑅𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑎𝑛 = (8.3493)
𝑛µ
If Re < 2300 therefore the flow through the passage will be laminar and the head loss is given
by the Hagen Poiseuille formula.

32µ𝑉𝐿 𝑉𝐿𝜋 𝜋𝑄𝐿

ℎ𝑓= = 8µ = 8µ
𝜌𝑔𝑑 2 𝜌𝑔𝜋𝑟 2 𝜌𝑔𝐴. 𝐴

Hence for the small element in the impeller passage, using the above equations the
elementary head loss is given by the equation shown below.

18
 𝑛𝜋𝑄𝑑𝑙
𝑑ℎ = 8µ
𝜌𝑔𝑛𝐴2

𝑛𝜋𝑄𝑑𝑙 𝑛𝜋𝑄√(𝑟 2 + (𝑑𝑟/𝑑𝜃)2 )𝑑𝜃

𝑑ℎ = 8µ 2 = 8µ 2
𝜋𝑟 𝜋𝑟
𝜌𝑔𝑛 [𝑏 ( 𝑛 − 𝑡)] 𝜌𝑔𝑛 [𝑏 ( 𝑛 − 𝑡)]

𝑛𝜋𝑄√(𝑟 2 + (𝑑𝑟/𝑑𝜃)2 )
ℎ𝑙𝑜𝑠𝑠 = 8µ 2 𝑑𝜃
𝜋𝑟
𝜌𝑔𝑛 [𝑏 ( 𝑛 − 𝑡)]

If Re > 2300 therefore the flow through the passage will be turbulent and the friction factor
method is used for the calculation of the boundary layer loss. The friction factor for the
turbulent flow is given as

0.316
𝑓= 1
𝑅𝑒 4
The general equation for the head loss using the friction factor is given below

𝑓𝐿𝑣 2
ℎ=
2𝑔𝐷
Hence for the small element in the impeller passage, using the above equations the
elementary head loss is given by the equation shown below.

𝑛0.316𝑄. 𝑄
𝑑ℎ𝑙𝑜𝑠𝑠 = 1 𝑑𝐿
𝑅𝑒 4 𝐴2 2𝑔𝐷𝑛2
To find the diameter D, the cross section of the blade passage is made equal to that of the
circular pipe of diameter D.
𝜋𝑟 2
𝜋𝐷 2
𝜋𝑟 2
√ 4 [𝑏 ( − 𝑡)]
= [𝑏 ( − 𝑡)] ∴ 𝐷 = 𝑛
4 𝑛 𝜋
Substituting the above value of D in elementary head loss equation and using (vi)

𝑛0.316𝑄. 𝑄√(𝑟 2 + (𝑑𝑟/𝑑𝜃)2 )

∴ 𝑑ℎ𝑙𝑜𝑠𝑠 = 1 𝑑𝜃
1 𝜋𝑟 2 2 𝜋𝑟
2 2
𝑅𝑒 4 . [𝑏 (𝑛 − 𝑡)] 𝑛 2𝑔 √𝜋 [𝑏 ( 𝑛 − 𝑡)]

𝑛0.316𝑄. 𝑄√(𝑟 2 + (𝑑𝑟/𝑑𝜃)2 )

∴ 𝑑ℎ𝑙𝑜𝑠𝑠 = 1 𝑑𝜃
1 𝜋𝑟 2 2 𝜋𝑟
2 2
𝑅𝑒 4 . [𝑏 (𝑛 − 𝑡)] 𝑛 2𝑔 √𝜋 [𝑏 ( 𝑛 − 𝑡)]

19
 𝑛0.316𝑄 2 √(𝑟 2 + (𝑑𝑟/𝑑𝜃)2 )
∴ 𝑑ℎ𝑙𝑜𝑠𝑠 = 1 𝑑𝜃
4
4𝜌𝑄 𝜋𝑟 5/4 2
[ ] . [𝑏 ( 𝑛 − 𝑡)] 𝑛2 2𝑔
𝜋(𝑟) √𝜋
𝑛µ[2𝑏 + 2[ 𝑛 − 𝑡]

𝑛0.316𝑄 2 √(𝑟 2 + (𝑑𝑟/𝑑𝜃)2 )

∴ ℎ𝑙𝑜𝑠𝑠 = ∫ 1 𝑑𝜃
4
4𝜌𝑄 𝜋𝑟 5/4 2
[ ] . [𝑏 ( 𝑛 − 𝑡)] 𝑛2 2𝑔
𝜋(𝑟) √𝜋
𝑛µ[2𝑏 + 2[ 𝑛 − 𝑡]

The boundary layer loss given by above equations was calculated using Matlab workspace.
Depending upon the equation there are various types of integration options available in the
MATLAB such as improper integral, numerical integration, complex contour integration using
waypoints, integration of vector valued function. The equation used in the present work is of
improper type hence improper integration is used in MATLAB. The syntax used for improper
integration in MATLAB is wriiten below

Consider the improper function

2
𝑓 = 𝑒 −𝑥 (𝑙𝑛𝑥)2
The integration of this equation can be evaluated by using the syntax given below.
fun = @(x) exp(-x.^2).*log(x).^2;
q = integral(fun, lower limit, upper limit)

For integrating boundary layer loss across the impeller profile, the MATLAB code is used. The
input parameters are inlet radius, outlet radius, wrap angle, flow rate, number of blades,
impeller width, impeller thickness, temperature, viscosity and density of fluid in terms of
temperature. To express the viscosity and density as a function of temperature the least square
curve fitting method is used. The viscosity and density data is used for deriving the viscosity
and density function.

From the boundary layer loss equation, it is clear that it depends on viscosity. So, if the fluid
of low viscosity is pumped then this boundary layer loss is insignificant as seen from the fig-
2.10. In fig 2.10 boundary layer loss for water is shown. The pump parameters for this study
are taken from “Design and analysis of centrifugal pump impeller using ansys fluent.” by
Ajith M S et al (2015). The ATF (Aircraft Turbine Fluid) data is taken from BHEL website.
The matlab code used for calculating boundary layer loss is given in appendix-1

20
 2.50E-06

Boundary layer head loss

2.00E-06

1.50E-06

1.00E-06

5.00E-07

0.00E+00
0.00025 0.0005 0.001 0.001445 0.002 0.0025 0.003 0.0035
Flow rate(m3/s)

Water Boundary layer loss(m) ATF Boundary layer loss(m)

Fig 2.10 Variation of boundary layer loss for water and ATF ASME D 1665

But if the viscosity is high this loss is about 0.07 and even more for other highly viscous
fluids and it is significant. The variation of boundary layer loss with viscosity is shown in
fig 2.11 keeping flowrate as 0.001 m3/sec. Also, boundary layer loss depends on length of
blade passage which in turn depends on the wrap angle.

0.08

0.07

0.06

0.05
H(m)

0.04

0.03

0.02

0.01

0
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
Viscosity (Centistrokes)

Fig 2.11 Variation of head loss due to boundary layer with viscosity.

2.9 INCIDENCE LOSS

For maximum performance the relative inlet velocity angle has to match with the impeller
inlet angle. This condition is called as design condition. At off design condition the angles do

21
not match and incidence head loss is induced. This loss is equal to head due to velocity
difference at design and off design conditions. The velocity diagram used for calculating the
loss is shown below

Fig.2.12 Velocity triangle for Incidence loss

From velocity triangle in fig 2.12

𝐶𝑟1
𝑤1 =
sin 𝛽1
𝐶𝜃1 = 𝑢1 − 𝑤1 cos(𝛽1 )
𝐶𝜃1 = 𝑢1 − 𝐶𝑟1 cot(𝛽1 )
Incidence loss velocity is given by
𝑉𝑠 = 𝐶1′ cos(𝛽1 ) − 𝐶𝜃1
∴ 𝑉𝑠 = 2𝐶𝑟1 cot(𝛽1 ) − 𝑢
(2𝐶𝑟1 cot 𝛽1 −𝑢1 )2
𝐻𝑒𝑎𝑑 𝑙𝑜𝑠𝑠 = ….(viii)
2𝑔

22
 Fig.2.13 Simulink block for Incidence loss

The pump parameters for this study are taken from “Design and analysis of
centrifugal pump impeller using Ansys fluent.” by Ajith M S et al (2015).

25

20
Incidence loss(m)

15

10

0
0.00025 0.0005 0.001 0.001445 0.002 0.0025 0.003 0.0035
Flowrate(m3/s)

Fig 2.14 Variation of head loss due to incidence loss with flow rate.

From fig. 2.14 incidence head loss increases as operating conditions deviate from
design conditions. The maximum loss can be as large as 50 percent of ideal head. To
optimize the performance the pump should run at design condition.

23
 2.10 SLIP FACTOR LOSS

As the energy is transferred from the impeller to the fluid, the pressure of the fluid
changes. Along the impeller the pressure at leading edge of impeller is more than the
pressure at the trailing edge of impeller. On the leading edge the pressure is high and the
velocity is relatively low on the other hand at the trailing edge the pressure is low and the
velocity is high. This results in recirculation of fluid along the blade. Therefore the agle at
which the fluid leaves the impeller is not same as the actual blade angle, this phenomenon
is called as impeller slip. There are various theories proposed for calculating the slip factor
loss. With the given input parameters for mathematical model, the stadola,s theory is most
appropriate for calculation slip factor loss.

Fig 2.15 Velocity triangle for slip factor loss.

Using Stodola’s taken from “Analysis and Validation of a Unified Slip Factor Model for
Impellers at Design and Off-Design Conditions”, Xuwen Qiu et al(2011).

𝐶𝑟2
∅2 =
𝑢2
𝜋 sin(𝛽2 ) 𝐶𝜃2 ′
𝜎 =1− =
𝑛(1 − cot 𝛽2 ) 𝐶𝜃2
𝐶2′ = (𝐶𝜃2 )2 + (𝐶𝑟2 )2
𝐶2′ = (𝜎𝐶𝜃2 )2 + (𝐶𝑟2 )2

(𝑤2 ′)2 = (𝑢2 − 𝜎𝐶𝜃2 )2 + 𝐶𝑟2 2

The new head will be,

1 2
𝐻 ′ = 2𝑔 [(𝑢2 2 − 𝑢1 2 ) + (𝐶1 2 − 𝐶2′ ) + (𝑤2 ′2 − 𝑤1 2 )] ..(ix)

24
Head loss due to slip factor is given as
𝐻𝑒𝑎𝑑 𝑙𝑜𝑠𝑠 = 𝐻 − 𝐻 ′

Fig 2.16 Simulink block for slip factor loss

The pump parameters for this study are taken from “Design and analysis of
centrifugal pump impeller using Ansys fluent.” by Ajith M S et al (2015).

14

12

10
Slip factor loss(m)

0
0.00025 0.0005 0.001 0.001445 0.002 0.0025 0.003 0.0035
Flowrate(m3/s)

Fig 2.17 Variation of head loss due to slip factor with flow rate.

From fig.2.17 the effect of slip decreases as flowrate increases. As flowrate increases
the effect of distortion of velocity triangle due to slip factor decrease.

25
Fig 2.18 Simulink model for actual centrifugal pump.

26
2.11 VALIDATION OF ACTUAL CASE

Table 2.4 validation of actual case

Ajith et al. (2015) Haridass et al. (2015)

Parameter Pump 1 Pump 2

Wrap angle 187.5 deg 75 deg

Inlet angle 19.25 deg 15 deg

Outlet angle 23.76 deg 31.6 deg

Inner radius 18mm 86mm

Outer radius 72mm 209.7mm

Width of Blade 10mm 50mm

Blade thickness 5mm 10mm

Flow rate .001445m3/s .08m3/s

Speed 282rpm 1400rpm

Head 30.62m 70m

Calculated head 32.79m 64.56m

27
 CHAPTER 3
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
3.1 EFFECT OF FLOWRATE ON VARIOUS LOSSES
The effect of change in flow rate on ideal head, actual head and various losses is studied
for the pump with given parameters. The flow rate is varies from 0.00025 m3/s to 0.0035 m3/s
such that the design flow rate can be found out by plotting head vs flowrate. The variation of
ideal head, actual head and various losses is shown below. The pump parameters for this study
are taken from “Design and analysis of centrifugal pump impeller using ansys fluent.” by Ajith
M S et al (2015).
Table 3.1 Variation of Ideal head, Actual head and losses with flow rate.
Flow Ideal Incidence Boundary Slip factor Actual
rate(m3/s) head(m) loss(m) layer loss(m) loss(m) Head(m)
0.00025 45.27 0.68 2.28E-09 12.72 31.87
0.0005 45.47 0.18 7.67E-09 12.62 32.67
0.001 45.88 0.13 2.58E-08 12.44 33.3
0.001445 46.24 1.17 4.91E-08 12.28 32.79
0.002 46.70 3.88 8.68E-08 12.08 30.73
0.0025 47.11 7.67 1.28E-07 11.90 27.53
0.003 47.51 12.75 1.76E-07 11.72 23.05
0.0035 47.92 19.09 2.31E-07 11.54 17.29

50
45
40
35
Head(m)

30
Ideal head
25
20 Actual Head
15
Slip factor loss
10
5 Incidence loss
0
BL loss

Flowrate(m3/s)

Fig 3.1 Effect of flowrate on various losses

In fig. 3.1 Ideal head, actual head and all the losses are shown. From this we can
conclude that 0.001m³/s is a design head at which the actual head is maximum and the losses

28
are minimum. The variation of ideal head and boundary layer loss and slip factor loss is linear
with changing flow rate while actual head incidence loss is non-linear with changing flow rate.
3.2 PUMP CHARACTERISTICS
The pump characteristics such as Head, Power, Hydraulic efficiency, NPSH are critical
while choosing the pump. The variation of pump characteristics with flow rate is studied for
pump with given parameters. The flow rate is varies from 0.00025 m3/s to 0.0035 m3/s such
that the design flow rate can be found out by plotting head vs flowrate. The variation of Head,
NPSH, Power and Hydraulic efficiency is shown below. The pump parameters for this study
are taken from “Design and analysis of centrifugal pump impeller using ansys fluent.” by Ajith
M S et al (2015).
Table 3.2 Pump Characteristics
Flowrate(m3/sec) Head(m) NPSH(m) Power(watt) Hydraulic
efficiency (%)
0.00025 31.87 10.00 78.16 70.39
0.0005 32.67 10.01 160.24 71.84
0.001 33.33 10.05 326.67 72.58
0.001445 32.79 10.10 464.81 70.91
0.002 30.73 10.20 602.92 65.80
0.0025 27.53 10.31 675.17 58.43
0.003 23.05 10.44 678.36 48.51
0.0035 17.29 10.60 593.65 36.08

80 800
Head(m), NSPH(m), Hydraulic efficiency

70 700

60 600
Power(watt)

50 500

40 400

30 300

20 200

10 100

0 0
0.00025 0.0005 0.001 0.001445 0.002 0.0025 0.003 0.0035
Flowrate (m3/sec)
Head(m) NPSH(m) Hydraulic efficiency(%) Power(watt)

Fig 3.2 Variation of pump characteristics with flowrate.

From fig. 3.2 it can be concluded that there exist a flow rate at which the head is
maximum. This flow rate is called as design flow rate. At design flow rate the losses are
minimum and therefore the hydraulic efficiency is maximum. The hydraulic efficiency is

29
maximum at design condition. The Maximum power output is obtained at off design condition
but with lower hydraulic efficiency.
3.3 EFFECT OF PUMP PARAMETERS ON TOTAL HEAD
In the parametric study the inlet blade angle, outlet blade angle and the number of blade
are varied and effect on the actual head is studied. From this the optimal design conditions can
be found out. The pump parameters for this study are taken from “Design and analysis of
centrifugal pump impeller using ansys fluent.” by Ajith M S et al (2015).

3.3.1 Variation in Outlet Blade Angle

Table 3.3 Variation in outlet blade angle.
Q 0.0005 0.001 0.0015 0.002 0.0025 0.003
B2=9 38.57 38.56 37.21 35.31 32.59 29.05
B2=11 37.74 38.02 36.97 35.36 32.93 29.69
B2=13 36.86 37.35 36.5 35.09 32.87 29.83
B2=15 35.98 36.35 35.91 34.66 32.58 29.68
B2=17 35.1 35.85 35.26 34.12 32.16 29.38
B2=19 34.24 35.08 34.58 33.53 31.66 28.97
B2=21 33.41 34.32 33.9 32.92 31.12 28.5
B2=23 32.6 33.57 33.21 32.29 30.55 28
B2=25 31.84 32.86 32.55 31.68 29.99 27.48
B2=27 31.1 32.16 31.9 31.07 29.42 26.96
B2=29 30.4 31.5 31.27 30.48 28.87 26.44

41
B2=9
39
B2=11
37
B2=13
35 B2=15
Head(m)

33 B2=17

31 B2=19
B2=21
29
B2=23
27
B2=25
25 B2=27
0.0005 0.001 0.0015 0.002 0.0025 0.003
B2=29
Flowrate(m3/sec)

Fig 3.3 Variation in outlet blade angle with flowrate.

30
 From fig. 3.3 conclusion can be drawn as the effect of change in outlet blade angle at
high flow rate is less significant as compared to a low flow rate. Therefore in high flowrate
pumps the effect of outlet angle is less significant.
3.3.2 Variation in Inlet Blade Angle
Table 3.4 Variation in inlet blade angle

Flowrate(m3/s) B1=13 B1=15 B1=17 B1=19 B1=21 B1=23 B1=25

0.0005 32.99 32.74 32.52 32.33 32.17 32.02 31.09
0.001 33.3 33.57 33.63 33.58 33.48 33.36 33.22
0.0015 31.83 32.53 32.84 32.95 32.96 32.9 32.8
0.002 28.45 30.34 31.4 32 32.34 32.5 32.57
0.0025 23.2 26.76 28.9 30.21 31.04 31.56 31.88
0.003 16.07 21.8 25.32 27.58 29.07 30.06 30.72

40

35

30 B1=13
25 B1=15
Head(m)

20 B1=17

15 B1=19

10 B1=21
B1=23
5
B1=25
0
0.0005 0.001 0.0015 0.002 0.0025 0.003
Flowrate(m3/sec)

Fig 3.4 Variation in inlet blade angle with flowrate.

From fig. 3.4 conclusion can be drawn as the effect of change in inlet blade angle at
design flow rate is less significant as compared to at off design flow rate.

31
 3.3.3 Variation in number of blades
Table 3.5 Variation in number of blades
Flow rate(m3/s) 3 Blades 4 Blades 5 Blades 6 Blades
0.00025 28.67 31.87 34.06 35.64
0.0005 29.48 32.67 34.85 36.43
0.001 30.2 33.3 35.42 36.94
0.001445 29.83 32.79 34.78 36.17
0.002 28.02 30.73 32.47 33.61
0.0025 25.12 27.53 28.96 29.78
0.003 21.02 23.05 24.1 24.5
0.0035 15.71 17.29 17.88 17.78

40

35

30

25
Head(m)

6 Blades
20
5 Blades
15
4 Blades
10 3 Blades

0
0.00025 0.0005 0.001 0.001445 0.002 0.0025 0.003 0.0035
Flow rate(m3/s)

Fig 3.5 Variation in number of blades with flowrate.

From fig. 3.5 as the number of blade increases the head also increases at given flowrate.
By increasing the number of blades the distance between two consecutive blades decreases due
to which the circulation of fluid along the impeller blade decreases. Therefore the slip factor
loss is decreased. At the same time the moment of inertia of impeller increases which increases
mechanical losses and transient state power required in start-up. When the number of blade
goes beyond limit, the stadola equation cannot be applied and the losses become more
significant.

32
3.4 SUMMARY

In the present work, a mathematical model of closed impeller centrifugal pump is

developed. The closed impeller pump is used in the fuel system of a typical combat aircrafts.
For solving the equations Simulink and MATLAB codes has been utilised. As a first step to
verify the methodology ideal case validation (without considering the losses) is done. In the
step towards the actual case modelling, the impeller profile equation is generated using least
square curve fitting method. As a next step all the losses including boundary layer loss,
incidence loss and slip factor loss have been modelled individually. MATLAB code is used for
calculation of boundary layer loss and Simulink is used for other losses. MATLAB code is
used in boundary layer loss calculation because the final equation is improper integral, this
cannot be solved using Simulink. Final model is made in Simulink including all the losses. The
final model is validated against the numerical and experimental results. The deviation between
present and the experimental result is found to be within 6 %. This deviation may be due to
absence of the involute and mechanical losses. Pump characteristics viz, total head, NPSH,
hydraulic efficiency and power are evaluated. The design flow rate is found from pump
characteristic curve. Inlet blade angle, outlet blade angle, number of blades are varied as a
parameters to evaluate the performance of actual centrifugal pump. The effect of change in
outlet blade angle on total head at high flow rate is less significant as compared to a low flow
rate. The effect of change in inlet blade angle on total head at design flow rate is less significant
as compared to at off design flow rate. As the number of blade increases the head also increases.
At high flow rate the difference in total head is low and it is high at low flow rate.

In future the work the effect of involute and mechanical losses can be included with
this model. By doing this the accuracy of the model can be improved.

33
 CHAPTER 4
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35
 APPENDIX-1

MATLAB code for boundary layer loss

r1=0.086;
r2=0.2047;
theta=75;
limit=theta*pi/180;
Q=0.08;
n=7;
b=0.05;
t=0.01;
T=25;
u=1.745543*0.001-4.652449*(10^(-5))*T+5.705928*(10^(-7))*T*T-2.543805*(10^(-
9))*T*T*T;
den=999.999393+1.801825*0.01*T-5.894798*0.001*T*T+1.565448*(10^(-5))*T*T*T;
w=theta/90;
a=r2-r1;
arc=pi/n;
fun = @(x) sqrt((r1+(a.*x)./(5.*pi.*w) + (3.6.*a.*x.*x)./(pi.*pi.*w.*w)).^2 + ((a)./(5.*pi.*w)
+ (7.2.*a.*x)./(pi.*pi.*w.*w)).^2);
loss = @(x) 0.01.*n.*Q.*Q.*sqrt((r1+(a.*x)./(5.*pi.*w) + (3.6.*a.*x.*x)./(pi.*pi.*w.*w)).^2
+ ((a)./(5.*pi.*w) + (7.2.*a.*x)./(pi.*pi.*w.*w)).^2).*((b.*(arc*(r1+(a.*x)./(5.*pi.*w) +
(3.6.*a.*x.*x)./(pi.*pi.*w.*w))-t)).^(-1.25)).*((n).^(-2)).*((den.*Q).^(-0.25)).*((2.*u.*n.*(b-
t+(arc.*(r1+(a.*x)./(5.*pi.*w) + (3.6.*a.*x.*x)./(pi.*pi.*w.*w)).^(0.25)))));
headloss = integral(loss,0,limit);

36