University of Santo Tomas

Faculty of Engineering CHE 2116: CHEMICAL ENGINEERING

Department of Chemical Engineering LABORATORY 1
Individual Written Report
Date Performed: March 28, 2023
Name: JANN VHERWEL R. GALICIA
Date Submitted: May 21, 2023
Instructor:
Section: 3 ChE B Group No: 6 Engr. Noel Sabarillo, M.Sc.
Engr. Divine Angela Sumalinog, Ph.D.

Experiment No.3: SERIES/PARALLEL CENTRIFUGAL PUMPS

I. INTRODUCTION
A centrifugal pump is a mechanical tool used to pump fluids using the rotational energy of one or
more driven rotors, also known as impellers. Through the vane tips of the impeller, fluid is injected into
the fast-spinning impeller along its axis and is ejected by centrifugal force along its circle [1]. Pumps are
frequently installed in parallel when the system requires variable flow and may meet these needs by
turning the parallel pumps on and off [2]. While numerous pumping applications demand that fluids be
moved over great distances and against total or static heads that are far higher than those that may be
created by a single pump, this is where series centrifugal pumps come in [2]. The total head increases
without changing the maximum discharge if the pumps are connected in series. For pumps, however, that
are positioned parallel to one another, the discharge rises without affecting the total head.
This experiment focuses on determining the total head developed in pumps operating in series and
in parallel and the overall efficiency of pumps connected in series and in parallel. Discharge (Q) can be
computed using eq.1.1 which will then be used in determining the total head (Hm) using eq.1.2.

5
8
discharge(Q)= C e he2 √ 2 g eq .1.1
15
where :
h e=h+k h
h=measured V notchhead
k h=0.00085
C e =0.5765

total head (H ¿¿ m)=( H d −H s ) + ( 1.17 × 105 Q 2) eq .1.2 ¿

where :
H d =Discharge Head
H s =Suction Head

In overall pump efficiency (η), eq 1.3 will be used where (PO) is the power output and (PI) is the
power input. Power output and power input can be determined using eq. 1.4 and eq. 1.5 respectively.
Experiment 3: Series/Parallel Centrifugal Pumps

PO
η= ×100 eq . 1.3
PI

where :

Hydraulic Power output of the pump ( PO )=ρgQ H m eq . 1.4

Input Power ¿ the pump ( P I ) =power output of the motor ( P M ) −transmissionloss ( P L ) eq .1.5

II. METHODOLOGY
Experiment F3 (Series/Parallel Centrifugal Pumps) was conducted on-site. Figure 2.1 shows the
experimental setup of the series/parallel pump test rig showing its different parts.

Orifice Meter
Pump (1)
Pressure
Gauges
Regulating
Valve

Sump Tank Pump (2)

Tachometer
‘V’ notch
Vernier Point
gauge

Figure 2.1. Series/Parallel Test Rig Setup

The experiment was divided into two parts: (A) series arrangement of the pump test rig and (B)
parallel arrangement of the pump test rig. Both or the two parts used the same methodology but only
differs in the pump arrangement. Start-up phase was conducted to initiate the experiment with all valves
except the flow-regulating valve opened, priming the system for operation. Prior to starting the pumps,
the motor stator was balanced using the adjustable counterweight, ensuring optimal performance and
stability. The water level in the approach channel was carefully adjusted to align precisely with the apex
of the 'V' notch, considering the surface tension effect. The zero-point gauge in the stilling well was
marked to establish a reference point. Additionally, the speed controller was set to zero, preparing the
system for subsequent testing.
For the experimental phase, with the regulating valve closed, the appropriate suction and delivery
valves were selected based on the specific test configuration, such as series or parallel pump operation.

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Experiment 3: Series/Parallel Centrifugal Pumps

Initial readings on the relevant pressure gauges were accurately measured and recorded to establish a
baseline for comparison. The motor was then run up to the chosen speed of 1500, 2000, or 2500 RPM,
ensuring consistent and controlled operation. While keeping the regulating valve closed, the pressure
readings were once again recorded to observe any changes or deviations in the system's behavior. The
regulating valve was gradually opened in intervals, allowing for the attainment of desired increments of
discharge. The positions of the valve were determined by monitoring the water level in the stilling well,
serving as a visual indicator. To ensure comprehensive data collection, at least three different discharge
rates were tested for each motor speed. In order to maintain balance and stability during the experiment,
weights were systematically applied to the torque arm. The total weight applied was accurately
documented, allowing for detailed analysis and comparison. The entire procedure, involving valve
selection, pressure gauge readings, regulating valve adjustments, weight application, and data recording,
was systematically repeated for two other rotational speeds and for each of the other pump arrangement
in series and in parallel.
For the shutdown phase, the suction valves for both pumps were closed, effectively ceasing the
flow of fluid. Concurrently, the motor speed was gradually reduced to zero, ensuring a controlled
shutdown process. The entire system was turned off, and all electrical connections were safely
disconnected, minimizing any potential risks or hazards.

III. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Table 3.1. Raw Data on Series and Parallel Pump Arrangement
Pump 1 Pump 1 Pump 2 Pump 2
Motor ‘V’ Notch Torque
Pump Discharge Suction Delivery Suction Delivery
Speed Head Mass
Arrangement (L/min) Head Head Head Head
(RPM) (mm) (g)
(m) (m) (m) (m)
23.0 7.178 0.60 2.80 2.90 7.70 760.81
1500 27.0 10.577 0.65 2.95 2.90 7.00 853.83
32.0 15.982 0.70 2.60 2.50 6.80 933.08
24.0 7.955 0.52 5.10 5.10 12.10 1143.06
Series 2000 31.5 15.381 0.82 5.00 50 11.98 1272.63
41.0 29.278 0.98 4.60 4.10 10.80 1408.24
33.0 17.226 0.85 8.10 8.10 18.20 1722.12
2500 48.0 43.098 1.10 7.30 7.00 16.70 2000.00
53.0 54.987 1.40 6.90 6.10 15.60 2168.12
Parallel 27.0 10.577 0.71 2.90 -1.10 3.40 789.87
1500 31.0 14.794 0.61 2.50 -1.20 3.00 835.37
42.0 31.058 0.09 2.00 -1.50 2.40 868.69
2000 36.5 22.031 0.00 5.00 -1.20 5.85 1129.57
46.0 38.822 0.20 4.10 -1.80 4.40 1224.64

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Experiment 3: Series/Parallel Centrifugal Pumps

58.0 68.654 0.11 3.10 -2.09 3.87 1372.04

39.5 26.724 0.00 7.90 -1.48 8.50 1544.09
2500 53.0 54.987 0.01 7.00 -2.00 7.60 1721.56
68.0 101.639 0.60 4.90 -2.00 7.80 2000.00

Table 3.1 shows the raw data on series and parallel pump arrangement with the calculated
discharge (Q) using eq.1.1 with h being the measured ‘V’ notch head. The other parameters shown in the
table such as motor speed, ‘V’ notch head, suction head, delivery head, and torque mass were set and
measured following the steps stated in the methodology.

5
8
discharge(Q)= C e he2 √ 2 g eq .1.1
15

Table 3.2. Total head and Efficiency of Different Motor Speed in Series and Parallel Pump Arrangement.
Motor
Pump Total Head Power Input Power Output Efficiency
Speed
Arrangement (m) (kW) (kW) (%)
(RPM)

7.00 0.283 0.008 2.903

1500 6.41 0.319 0.011 3.474
6.22 0.349 0.016 4.649
11.58 0.577 0.015 2.610
Series 2000 11.18 0.645 0.028 4.366
10.38 0.713 0.050 6.963
17.37 1.096 0.049 4.465
2500 16.02 1.274 0.113 8.860
15.20 1.382 0.137 9.885
3.35 0.294 0.006 1.968
1500 3.05 0.312 0.007 2.368
2.94 0.325 0.015 4.593
6.04 0.570 0.022 3.816
Parallel 2000 5.10 0.619 0.032 5.228
4.63 0.695 0.052 7.478
8.96 0.981 0.039 3.991
2500 8.39 1.095 0.075 6.889
7.39 1.274 0.122 9.633

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Experiment 3: Series/Parallel Centrifugal Pumps

Table 3.2 shows the calculated total head (Hm) in meters, power input and power output in
kilowatts, and efficiency in percentage. The total head was calculated using eq.1.2 where calculated
discharge, measured discharge head, and measured suction head was utilized. The total head in series
is the sum of the total head of the first and second pump while the total head in parallel was the average
of the total head of the first and second pump. A sample calculation for series arrangement total head is
shown below.

total head (H ¿¿ m)=( H d −H s ) + ( 1.17 × 105 Q 2) eq .1.2 ¿

where :
H d =Discharge Head
H s =Suction Head

H m 1=( 2.8−0.6 )+ ( 1.17 ×105 0.000122 )

H m 1=2.2017

H m 2=( 7.7−2.9 ) + ( 1.17 × 105 0.000122 )

H m 2=4.8017
H m =H m 1+ H m 2=7.0034 m

Power input and power output were calculated using eq.1.4 and eq.1.5 respectively. The power
output of the motor (PM) was calculated using eq. 3.1. where the torque mass comes in. The transmission
loss (PL) was given to be 0.01 kilowatts. Percent efficiency was calculated using eq.1.3. Sample
calculations are shown below.

Hydraulic Power output of the pump ( PO )=ρgQ H m eq . 1.4

Input Power ¿ the pump ( P I ) =power output of the motor ( P M ) −transmissionloss ( P L ) eq .1.5

Power output of the motor ( PM ) =MgLw eq .3.1

where :
mass applied ¿ torque arm(M )=kg
m
acceleration due ¿ gravity (g)=9.81 2
s
lenght of lever arm(L)=0.25 m

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Experiment 3: Series/Parallel Centrifugal Pumps

2 πN
angular velocity of shaft (w)=
60
motor speed ( N )=RPM

PO
η= ×100 eq . 1.3
PI

sample calculation :
3
kg m −4 m
(1000 3
)(9.81 2 )(1.1964 × 10 )(7.0034 m)
m s s
PO =ρgQ H m =
1000
PO =0.008219 kW
P I =P M −PL

P M =MgLw=
(
( 0.76081 kg ) 9.81
m
s )
2 (
( 0.25 m )
2 π (1500 RPM )
60 )
1000
P M =0.293093 kW
P I =P M −PL =0.293093 kW −0.01kW =0.283093 kW
PO 0.008219 kW
η= ×100= × 100=2.903 %
PI 0.283093 kW

Figure 3.1 Discharge Q vs. total head graph for series (left) and parallel (right) pump arrangement.

Figure 3.1 shows discharge vs. the total head in series and in parallel pump arrangement and it is
noticeable that there are fluctuations in the total head value showing a possible minimum value of total
head in different motor speeds.

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Experiment 3: Series/Parallel Centrifugal Pumps

Figure 3.2 Discharge Q vs. power input graph for series (left) and parallel (right) pump arrangement.

Figure 3.2 shows a little to no difference in the graph of discharge vs. the power input between
series and parallel pump arrangement.

Figure 3.3 Discharge Q vs. %efficiency graph for series (left) and parallel (right) pump arrangement.

Figure 3.2 shows a directly proportional relationship for the series pump arrangement and a
minimum value for the parallel pump arrangement. The figure on the left also shows that it does not
matter if it has higher motor speed or not as it shows the same efficiency compared to the lower motor
speed.

Figure 3.4 Discharge Q vs. total head/%eff graph for series (left) and parallel (right) pump arrangement.

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Experiment 3: Series/Parallel Centrifugal Pumps

Figure 3.4 shows the total head and efficiency vs the discharge for both series and parallel pump
arrangement. The figure on the left shows that the two lines will intersect at some point as its trend
suggests. The figure on the other hand shows an almost constant difference for the two lines, again
having a minimum value.

Figure 3.5 Typical centrifugal pump performance curves at constant impeller rotation speed. The
units for H and Q are arbitrary [3].

As it can be noticed that figure3.5 is close to the experimental graph shown in figure 3.4 (left) as it
behaves the same way as ideal. Specific speed can be estimated to be 1100. A dimensionless
assessment of pump discharge performance calculated from an equation using shaft speed, flow rate,
and differential head at a pump's Best Efficiency Point is known as Specific Speed [4]. There may be
several reasons why the observed and projected pump speeds differ. One of the possible causes
includes data gathering errors. Differences between observed and expected values might result from
inaccurate or imprecise measurements made during testing or observation [5]. Errors in flow rate, head,
power, or other crucial variables required to determine a given speed might fall under this category [5].
Another reason includes assumptions and simplifications because the projected specific speeds are often
based on mathematical calculations and theoretical models that include certain simplifications and
assumptions regarding the pump system [6]. The operating circumstances in the actual world could not
exactly match these hypotheses, which would cause differences between expected and observed results
[6]. Another can be the trade-off between efficiency and resources as centrifugal pumps' primary
attributes, like those of many other systems, involve efficiency and resources [7]. Often, when we
increase the first of these two characteristics, we must compromise the second. This is because when
the pump rotor's rotational speed increases, the bearings' lifespan rapidly decreases while efficiency, on
the other hand, improves [7].
Other factors, such total head and input power, might affect a pump's efficiency. One possible
explanation is the pump arrangement. The pump arrangement is changed in the piping installation to
achieve the performance/flow characteristics required for a specific usage, specifically the requirement
for a head height that is higher than the flow rate (capacity) or vice versa. When applying a flow control

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Experiment 3: Series/Parallel Centrifugal Pumps

approach, different valve openings can be used while taking energy efficiency into account. It may be
said that the parallel circuit pump's efficiency range is high in order to achieve a higher flow rate than the
series circuit pump [8]. The pump efficiency series is less than the pump efficiency parallel circuit to get
the maximum total head [8]. The distribution of the load is another factor. Extensive experimental studies
attest to the accuracy of the calculational results that are based on the created mathematical models. 5%
of the electricity used might be saved by distributing the load amongst parallel functioning pumping units
according to the ideas that have been described [9]. Pump model must be another. A straightforward
efficiency model for a pump has been given that just considers the suction, discharge, and leakage
resistance coefficients. The performance of the pump is varied while pumping various media, it is
discovered after measuring its efficiency under various circumstances. The best efficiency point has been
found to cause a phenomenon, and this efficiency model provides a strong justification for these testing
phenomena [10].
The total head has the biggest effect on overall efficiency. Computation of total head includes
suction and delivery head which is both acquired during the experimental phase. Total head is used in
computation for the hydraulic power output of the pump which is directly proportional to the overall
efficiency. The higher the power output, the higher the efficiency will be.

IV. ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS

1. Which among the performance curves obtained in 7.4, in your opinion is the most useful when
assessing the performance of the pumps (series/parallel)? Explain your answer briefly.
- The total head and efficiency vs. discharge is the most useful in assessing the
performance of the pumps whether it is in series and parallel. In this graph, specific
speed can be determined. The most effective kind of pump for a given system may
be identified by calculating the specific speed of a pump. The specific speed is a
dimensionless quantity that relates to the pump curve and describes the geometry of
the pump impeller [11][12]. For high flow rate and low head applications, a higher
specific speed implies a more efficient impeller design, whereas for low flow rate and
high head applications, a lower specific speed indicates a more efficient impeller
design [11][12]. Therefore, choosing the appropriate type of pump for a given system
and increasing its efficiency need knowledge about the specific speed of the pump.
Additionally, new impeller forms that are more effective than current ones are created
throughout the design process of pumps using specified speed [13].
2. In choosing a pump for a particular system, what parameters must be considered? In what case
does any of these parameters become the most important design consideration?
- By transforming the mechanical energy from a revolving impeller into pressure
energy (head), pumps move liquids from one location to another [14]. The liquid is
put under pressure, which causes it to flow at the desired rate and overcome friction
losses (or head losses) in the pipelines, valves, fittings, and process equipment [14].
It is important to consider the following factors when selecting a pump for a certain

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Experiment 3: Series/Parallel Centrifugal Pumps

system: flow rate, head, viscosity, temperature, specific gravity, solid content, Net
Positive Suction Head (NPSH), type of pump, and efficiency [15]. To maximize
energy consumption, the pump curve and set-point curve system should also be
considered [15] [16]. The capacity, pressure loss on the pipe wall, pipe length,
diameter, and type, as well as the quantity and kind of pipe accessories utilized, are
further considerations [17]. Additionally, the efficiency estimate under the new
operating circumstances should be considered when working with variable rotation
speed pumps [15]. The link between water level, vortex flow patterns, and pump
performance in the pump intake should also be investigated using experimental
performance testing of the pump and associated hydraulic phenomena [18].

V. CONCLUSION
In conclusion, total head and overall efficiency were all determined whether in series or parallel
pump arrangement. The observed and projected data for this experiment and calculated pump speeds
can differ due to various factors. Data gathering errors, such as inaccurate measurements of flow rate,
head, power, or other important variables, can contribute to these differences. Assumptions and
simplifications made in theoretical models and calculations for specific speed estimation can also lead to
variations between expected and observed results. The trade-off between efficiency and resources is
another factor, where increasing rotational speed can decrease bearing lifespan while improving
efficiency. Pump arrangement, load distribution, and pump model are additional factors that can impact
efficiency. The total head plays a significant role in overall efficiency, as it affects the hydraulic power
output of the pump. Understanding and considering these factors are crucial in accurately assessing and
optimizing pump performance.

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Experiment 3: Series/Parallel Centrifugal Pumps

VI. REFERENCES

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[2]. McLoone, J. (2022, May 4). Pumps in Parallel & Series. Fluidflowinfo.com; Flite Software NI Ltd.
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[3]. Habib Ahmari, & Shah. (2019, August 14). Experiment #10: Pumps. Pressbooks.pub; Mavs Open
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%20Speed%20is%20a%20dimensionless,selection%20of%20pumps%20and%20impellers.
[5]. Zhang, J., Yang, H., Liu, H., Xu, L., & Lv, Y. (2021). Pressure Fluctuation Characteristics of High-
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[6]. A. Protopopov, & Valeriy Vigovskij. (2019). Development of methods for high-speed centrifugal
pump analysis. https://doi.org/10.1088/1757-899x/492/1/012003
[7]. A. Protopopov, A. Mukhlaeva, & Tkachuk, B. (2019). Resource Efficiency Compromise for
Centrifugal Pump. 589(1), 012005–012005. https://doi.org/10.1088/1757-899x/589/1/012005
[8]. Ambo Intang, & Hendra Dwipayana. (2019). Series and parallel relationship pump performance in
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System-in-the-of-the-Brice%C3%B1o-Iglesias/43db4ca0265a8b77533d61f01cf738a668be73a4
[12]. Yulianti. (2021). Evaluation of the Selection of the Submersible Pump Specification System of
PDAM Tirtauli in Siantar Selatan District, Pematangsiantar City. Journal of Science Technology

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(JoSTec); https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Evaluation-of-the-Selection-of-the-Submersible-
Pump-Yulianti/01a7387572b0defdb7dee84cd2cfcc3e474af440
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[16]. Yulianti. (2021). Evaluation of the Selection of the Submersible Pump Specification System of
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Pump-Yulianti/01a7387572b0defdb7dee84cd2cfcc3e474af440
[17]. Costa, J., Aurélio, M., Costa, L., & Alexandre, J. (2018). New formula proposal for the
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[18]. Markides, C. N., Zou, H., Chen, B., Zuo, Z., & Liu, S. (2021). Experimental performance of a
pump and the related vortices in a pump intake of a model pump station. 1909(1), 012045–012045.
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[19]. Munson, B. R., Young, D. F., and Okiishi, T. H., Fundamentals of Fluid Mechanics, 3rd ed.,
John Wiley and Sons, Inc., 1998.
[20]. Papanastasiou, T. C., Applied Fluid Mechanics, Prentice-Hall, Inc., 1994.
[21]. Bird, Robert Byron, Stewart and Lightfoot, Transport Phenomena. New York: John Wiley and
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[22]. ‌ Foust, Alan S., et. Al., Principles of Unit Operations, 2nd ed., New York: John Wiley and Sons,
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[23]. ‌ Perry, Robert and Green, D., Perry’s Chemical Engineer’s Handbook, 6th ed., McGraw-Hill,
Inc., 1984.

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