Fluid Machinery Manual 2022-23

THAPAR INSTITUTE OF ENGG. & TECH.
PATIALA
Course Code: UME-723

Course Name: Fluid Machines
FLUID MACHINERY LABORATORY

MANUAL
DST-FIST SPONSERED
DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING
TIET, PATIALA
Department of Mechanical Engineering Fluid Machinery Laboratory

Page 1
THAPAR INSTITUTE OF ENGG. & TECH. PATIALA
LIST OF EXPERIMENTS
S. No. Name of the experiment Equipment used Page No.

1 To draw the main (constant head) Pelton Turbine 4
characteristic curves of the Pelton
Turbine at ¼, ½, ¾ and full nozzle
opening
2 To draw the operating (constant Pelton Turbine 9

speed) characteristic curves of the
Pelton Turbine
3 To draw the main (constant head) Francis Turbine 14

characteristic curves of the Francis
Turbine for a given guide vane
opening
4 To draw the operating (constant Francis Turbine 19

speed) characteristic curves of the
Francis Turbine
5 To draw main and operating Centrifugal Pump 24

characteristic curves for Centrifugal Test Rig
Pump
6 To study the Reciprocating Pump and Reciprocating Pump 28

determine its efficiency test rig
7 To study the Hydraulic Ram and Hydraulic Ram Test 32

determine its efficiency Rig
8 To study the phenomenon of Cavitation Test Rig 36

cavitation in a liquid (by reducing the
liquid to its vapour pressure) and
comparison of theoretical and actual
pressure at cavitation conditions

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LIST OF EQUIPMENT
1. Impulse turbine, driven by 7.5 cm centrifugal pump coupled with 15 kW
motor.
2. Francis turbine, 15 cm centrifugal pump coupled with 11.25 kW motor
3. Reciprocating pump driven by 1.5 kW motor.
4. Hydraulic ram equipment.
5. Centrifugal pump test rig 9.9 cm driven by 0.7 kW motor.
6. Cavitation test rig.

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PERFORMANCE TEST ON A PELTON TURBINE
1. OBJECT
To draw the main (constant head) characteristic curves of the Pelton Turbine at ¼, ½, ¾ and full
nozzle opening.
2. EQUIPMENT
The Equipment consist of
 Two-stage hydraulic pump

 Pelton wheel
 Belt brake dynamometer
The artificial head to run the turbine is created by using a hydraulic pump. The water enters the
nozzle section of the turbine where the potential energy of water is converted into kinetic energy
in a nozzle. The water at high velocity strikes the buckets and is deflected through casing into
tailrace. The discharge of water is measured using a V-notch. The brake power is measured by
using a belt brake dynamometer and whereas tachometer is used to measure a speed.
Specifications
Driving motor power 15 kW
Size of impeller of the pump: 7.5 cm
Power of the turbine: 3.75 kW
Head: 60 m
RPM: 1290
3. PROCEDURE
The head of the turbine is maintained constant during the experiment. Set the nozzle at the
given opening. Loosen the belt of the brake dynamometer and open the water tap supplying
water for cooling of brake drum. Close the discharge valve of the centrifugal pump. Prime the
centrifugal pump and start the motor. Open the discharge valve of the centrifugal pump gently.
Let the turbine picks the speed. Load the drum by tightening the spring balance. Set the
discharge by adjustment in pump side for the required head in the casing of the turbine. Read
pressure head in the casing, speed of the turbine, net load on the drum, discharge head (h) from
hook gauge in the V-notch and tailrace level of water. Increase the load on the turbine by

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tightening the spring balance. Adjust the discharge so that static pressure head in the casing is the
same as in the previous case. Repeat the readings. Take six set of readings. After taking reading,
remove load from the brake drum by loosening the spring balance. Close the discharge valve of
the centrifugal pump gently. After the turbine stops, close the cooling water tap. Stop the motor.
Let all water flow through V-notch, take hook gauge reading corresponding to no flow
conditions. Repeat experiment by changing the nozzle opening.
4. CALCULATIONS
N Speed of the turbine in r.p.m
T Torque on the brake drum = Net weight × Lever Arm, N-m
W Specific weight of water, 9800 N/m3
2 Apex angle of the notch
Q Discharge, m3/sec
H Net head available at the inlet of the turbine
B.P. Brake Power=
WP Water Power =
Unit Discharge Qu =
√
Unit Speed Nu=

√
Unit Power Pu =
5. GRAPHS
Draw the following graphs for each nozzle openings. Study the trends revealed in the graphs and
discuss in the final report
 Unit Speed vs. Unit Discharge

 Unit Speed vs. Unit Power
 Unit Speed vs. Efficiency
Determine the best efficiency point and the corresponding speed and power.
6. REPORT

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A short form report should be written into the practical file. It should consist of the following
 The handout sheets

 Sample calculations, which should be fully and clearly explained (include units)
 Test readings and calculated results
 Graphs of the results
 Discussion notes and comments on the experiment. These should include limitations of
the experiment, source of error, suggestions for improvement to the equipment or
method, analysis of the results and implication of the results for the use of the Pelton
turbine. An explanation of why the characteristics are as they are would be appropriate
Pelton Turbine Test Data
Diameter of brake drum 30 cm

Thickness of the belt 1.9 cm
Effective radius of the brake drum, R ½(Diameter of the brake drum + thickness of the belt),m
Apex angle (2θ) of the V-notch 90°
Diameter of the penstock 7.5 cm
Velocity head in the penstock Discharge/Area of penstock (Note in the table)
Nozzle opening (1/4,1/2,3/4,Full)
Head on turbine (H), WP
Reading No. Pressure Velocity Elevation Head, H Water

Gauge head in head, w.r.t {p1+(v1)2/2g+h1}, Power,
Reading, penstock , tailrace h1, m m WP,
p1, m (v1)2/2g, WQH
m of water
Brake Power (BP)
Reading Speed,N(rpm) Dead Spring Torque{(m1- Brake Power(BP)

No. Balance m2)gR},N-m
Weight, (2πNT/60000)kW
Reading,
m1(kg)
m2(kg)

Page 6
Unit Quantities
Reading No. Efficiency(η) Unit Speed, Nu Unit Discharge, Unit Power, Pu

BP/WP Qu
SUGGESTED READING
1. Wright, T., Fluid Machinery, CRC Press, USA (2009).
2. Rattan, S.S., Fluid Machines and Hydraulic Machines, Khanna Publishers, New Delhi
(2004).

Page 7
Figure 1.1
PERFORMANCE TEST ON A PELTON TURBINE

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1. OBJECT
To draw the operating (constant speed) characteristic curves of the Pelton Turbine.
2. EQUIPMENT
The equipment consist of

 Two-stage hydraulic pump
 Pelton wheel
 Belt brake dynamometer
The artificial head to run the turbine is created by using a hydraulic pump. The water enters the
nozzle of the turbine where the potential energy of water is converted into kinetic energy in a
nozzle. The water at high velocity strikes the buckets and is deflected through casing into
tailrace. The discharge of water is measured using a V-notch. The brake power is measured by
using a belt brake dynamometer and speed can be measured by a tachometer.
Specifications
Driving motor power: 15 kW
Head: 60 m
RPM: 1290
3. PROCEDURE
The speed of the turbine is to be maintained constant for each gate opening. Loosen the belt of
the brake dynamometer and open the water tap, supplying water for cooling of brake drum.
Close the discharge valve of the centrifugal pump. Prime the centrifugal pump and start the
motor. Open the discharge valve of the centrifugal pump gently. Let the turbine picks the speed.
Load the drum by tightening the spring balance. Set the speed of the turbine to design speed by
adjustment on pump side sluice valve and nozzle opening. Read pressure head in the casing,
speed of the turbine, net load on the drum, discharge head (h) from hook gauge in the V-notch
and tailrace level of water. Increase the load on the turbine by tightening the spring balance.
Adjust the discharge using spear valve of the nozzle so that the speed of the turbine is the same
as in the previous case. Repeat the readings. Take six set of readings. After completion of the
readings remove load on the brake drum by loosening the spring balance. Close the discharge
valve of the centrifugal pump gently. After the turbine stops close the cooling water tap. Stop
the motor. Let all water flow through V-notch, take hook gauge reading corresponding to no
flow conditions.
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4. CALCULATIONS

Q Discharge, m3/sec
H Net head available at the inlet of the turbine
B.P. Brake Power,
W.P. Water Power,
Unit Discharge, Qu =
√
Unit Speed Nu =
√
Unit Power Pu=
5. GRAPHS
Draw the following graphs. Study the trends revealed in the graphs and discuss in the final report
 Unit Power as a function of Unit Discharge

 Efficiency as a function of Unit discharge
 Efficiency as a function of Power
 Efficiency as a function of % age of full load
Determine the best efficiency point and the corresponding load.
6. REPORT


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method, analysis of the results and implication of the results for the use of the Pelton
turbine. An explanation of why the characteristics are as they are would be appropriate.
Pelton Turbine Test Data

Thickness of the belt 1.9 cm
Effective radius of the brake drum, R ½(Diameter of the brake drum + thickness of the
belt),m
Apex angle (2θ) of the V-notch 90°
Nozzle opening (1/4,1/2,3/4,Full)
Reading Pressure Velocity Elevation Head, H Water

No. Gauge head in head,w.r.t {p1+(v1)2/2g+h1}, Power,
Reading, penstock , tailrace h1, m m WP,
p1, m (v1)2/2g, WQH
m of water
Brake Power (BP)

Page 11

No. (Constant) Weight, Balance m2)gR},N-m (2πNT/60000)kW
m1(kg) Reading,
m2(kg)
Unit Quantities
Reading Efficiency(η) Unit Speed, Nu Unit Discharge, Unit Power, Pu

No. BP/WP Qu
7. SUGGESTED READING
(2004).

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Figure 2.1
PERFORMANCE TEST ON A FRANCIS TURBINE

Page 13
1. OBJECT
To draw the main (constant head) characteristic curves of the Francis Turbine for a given guide
vane opening.
2. EQUIPMENT

 single-stage hydraulic pump
 Francis Turbine
 rope brake dynamometer
The artificial head to run the turbine is created by using a hydraulic pump. A single-stage
pump is used to supply water to the Francis Turbine through a penstock. The water enters the
guide blade section of the turbine where the static pressure of the water is partly converted into
kinetic energy. The water then enters the moving blades where further fall of pressure occurs
which results into motion of the turbine. The pressure falls below atmospheric value in the draft
tube. Finally water flows into the tailrace. The discharge of the water is measured using a
rectangular weir. The brake power is measured using a rope brake dynamometer and speed is
measured by a tachometer.
Specifications
Head: 7.6 m
RPM: 724
3. PROCEDURE
The head of the turbine is maintained constant during the experiment. Set the turbine
guide blades at the given opening. Loosen the rope of brake dynamometer and open the water tap
supplying water for cooling of the brake drum. Close the discharge valve of the centrifugal
pump. Prime the centrifugal pump and start the motor. Open the discharge valve of the
centrifugal pump gently. Let the turbine pick the speed. Load the drum by putting the weight in
the balance. Set discharge by adjustment through pump side for the required head in the casing
of the turbine. Read pressure head in the casing, speed of the turbine, net load on the drum,
discharge head (h1) from hook gauge in the rectangular weir and tailrace level of water. Increase

Page 14
the load on turbine by adding more weight in the balance. Adjust the discharge so that the static
pressure head in the casing is the same as in the previous case. Repeat the readings. Take six sets
of readings. After completion of the readings remove load on the brake drum by removing
weights. Close the discharge valve of the centrifugal pump gently. After the turbine stops, close
the cooling water tap. Stop the motor. Let all water flow through the rectangular weir. Take hook
gauge reading (h0) corresponding to no flow conditions. Repeat experiment by changing the
gauge vane opening.
4. CALCULATIONS
Q Discharge, m3/sec
H Net head in the weir
H Net head available at the inlet of the turbine.
B.P Brake Power,
WP Water Power,
Unit Discharge, Qu=

√
Unit Speed, Nu =
√
Unit Power, Pu =
5. GRAPHS
Draw the following graphs for each guide vane opening. Study the trends revealed in the graphs
and discuss in the final report
1. Unit Discharge as a function of Unit Speed
2. Unit Power as a function of Unit speed
3. Efficiency as a function of Unit Speed
Determine the best efficiency point and the corresponding speed and power.

Page 15
6. REPORT

method, analysis of the results and implication of the results for the use of the Francis
Francis Turbine Test Data

Diameter of the rope 0.76 cm
Effective Radius of the brake drum, ½(Diameter of the brake drum + diameter of the
R rope),m
Width of the rectangular weir, b 39 cm
Nozzle opening (1/4, 1/2, 3/4, Full)
Head on turbine (h), WP

No. Gauge head in head, {p1+(v1)2/2g+h1}, Power,
Reading, penstock , w.r.t tailrace m WP,
p1, m (v1)2/2g, h1, m WQH
m of water

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Brake Power (BP)

No. Weight, Balance m2)gR},N-m (2πNT/60000)kW
m1(kg) Reading,
m2(kg)
Unit Quantities
Reading Efficiency(η) Unit Speed, Nu Unit Discharge, Unit Power,Pu
No. BP/WP Qu
(2004).

Page 17
Figure 3.1
PERFORMANCE TEST ON A FRANCIS TURBINE

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1. OBJECT
To draw the operating (constant speed) characteristic curves of the Francis Turbine
2. EQUIPMENT

 single-stage hydraulic pump
 Francis Turbine
 rope brake dynamometer
The artificial head to run the turbine is created by using a hydraulic pump. A single-stage
pump is supplying water to the Francis Turbine through a penstock. The water enters the guide
blade section of the turbine where the static pressure of the water is partly converted into kinetic
energy. The water then enters the moving blades where further fall of pressure occurs which
results into motion of the turbine. The pressure falls below atmospheric value in the draft tube.
Finally water flows into the tailrace. The discharge of the water is measured using a rectangular
weir. The brake power is measured using a rope brake dynamometer and speed is measured by a
tachometer.
Specifications
Head: 7.6 m
RPM: 724
3. PROCEDURE
The speed of the turbine is maintained constant during the experiment. Loosen the rope of
brake dynamometer and open the water tap supplying water for cooling of the brake drum. Close
the discharge valve of the centrifugal pump. Prime the centrifugal pump and start the motor. Open
the discharge valve of the centrifugal pump gently. Let the turbine pick the speed. Load the drum
by putting the weight in the balance. Set discharge by adjustment through pump side, by varying
the guide opening for the required speed of the turbine. Read pressure head in the casing, speed of
the turbine, net load on the drum, discharge head (h) from hook gauge in the rectangular weir and
tailrace level of water. Increase the load on turbine by adding more weight in the balance. Adjust
the discharge by varying vane openings so that the speed of the turbine is the same as in the
previous case. Repeat the readings. Take six sets of readings. After completion of the readings

Page 19
remove load on the brake drum by removing weights. Close the discharge valve of the centrifugal
pump gently. After the turbine stops, close the cooling water tap. Stop the motor. Let all water
flow through the rectangular weir. Take hook gauge reading (h0) corresponding to no flow
conditions.
4. CALCULATIONS
Q Discharge, m3/sec
h_ Net head in the weir
H Net head available at the inlet of the turbine.
B.P Brake Power=
WP Water Power=
Unit Discharge, Qu
√
Unit Speed, Nu =
√
Unit Power, Pu =
5. GRAPHS
Draw the following graphs for each guide vane opening. Study the trends revealed in the graphs
and discuss in the final report:
1. Unit Power as a function of Unit Discharge
2. Efficiency as a function of Unit Discharge
3. Efficiency as a function of Power
4. Efficiency as a function of % age of full Load.
Determine the best efficiency point and corresponding load.
6. REPORT

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method, analysis of the results and implication of the results for the use of the Francis
Francis Turbine Test Data

Diameter of the rope 0.76 cm
Effective Radius of the brake drum, ½(Diameter of the brake drum + diameter of the
R rope),m
Width of the rectangular weir, b 39 cm
Nozzle opening (1/4, 1/2, 3/4, Full)
Discharge(Q)
Reading Final Hook Initial Hook Net head on Discharge

No. Gauge gauge Reading, The Weir, (Q), m3/sec
Reading,h1,m h0,m h=(h1 - h0),m

No. Gauge head in head,w.r.t {p1+(v1)2/2g+h1}, Power,
Reading, penstock, tailrace h1, m m WP,
p1, m (v1)2/2g, m of WQH
water

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Brake Power (BP)
Reading Speed,N(rpm) Dead Spring Torque Brake Power(BP)

No. (constant) Weight, Balance (m1-m2)x(gR), (2πNT/60000)kW
m1(kg) Reading, N-m
m2(kg)
Unit Quantities
Reading Efficiency(η) Unit Speed, Nu Unit Discharge, Unit Power,Pu
No. BP/WP Qu
(2004).

Page 22
Figure 4.1

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PERFORMANCE TEST ON A CENTRIFUGAL PUMP
1. OBJECT
To draw main and operating characteristic curves for the centrifugal pump.
2. EQUIPMENT

 Centrifugal pump
 D.C Motor
 U tube differential manometer
The apparatus consist of closed circuit flow of water by a centrifugal pump. The pump is
driven by a D.C Motor. A sump tank of mild steel frame is provided with the apparatus. A drain
valve is provided in the tank. A variable speed drive is provided with the motor. Weighing spring
balance isused for measuring the torque. Wattmeter is provided for measuring input power to the
motor. Venturimeter provided with U tube differential manometer measures the discharge of
water. The gauges to measure suction and discharge pressures are provided with the set up.
Specifications
Driving motor power: 0.74 kW, single phase

Size of impeller of the pump: 10 cm
Head: 15 m
RPM: 1440
Sump tank: 50 cm × 50 cm × 80 cm (l × b × h)
3. PROCEDURE
The speed of the pump is kept equal to the design speed for operating characteristics and is
varied in the main characteristics. Close the discharge valve of the centrifugal pump. Prime the
centrifugal pump and start the motor. Set the speed of the motor to the desired value and
maintain it constant throughout the experiment. Open the discharge valve of the centrifugal
pump gently. Let the pump pick the speed. Read pressure head in the discharge and the suction
gauges, speed of the pump, shaft power, and manometer head in the U-tube manometer and
voltage of the motor. Apply correction factor to pressure readings. Increase the discharge, set the
speed of the pump to the previous value by changing the shaft power. Again take all the

Page 24
readings. Repeat the readings. Take six set of readings. After completion of the readings close
the discharge valve and stop the motor. Repeat experiment by changing the speed.
4. CALCULATIONS
N Speed of the motor/pump in r.p.m

T Torque, N-m
Inlet diameter of Venturi(d1) 25 mm
Throat Dia. ( d2) 15 mm
K A1 A2
√
 A1 2
 A2 
2
Sm Specific gravity of the manometric liquid (mercury)

H Difference in the heights of the manometers, h1 – h2
Cd Coefficient of Discharge
Q Discharge, m3/sec = √
Ps, Pd Suction and delivery gauge reading, N/m2
Hmano Manometric head developed by the pump, m=
S.P Brake Power,
WP Water Power,
5. GRAPHS
Draw the following graphs for each speed. Study the trends revealed in the graphs and discuss in
the final report:
1. Head as a function of Discharge

2. Shaft Power as a function of Discharge
3. Efficiency as a function of Discharge
4. Draw constant efficiency curve
Determine the best efficiency point and the corresponding head and power.
6. REPORT

Page 25

method, analysis of the results and implication of the results for the use of the centrifugal
pump. An explanation of why the characteristics are as they are would be appropriate.
Centrifugal Pump Test Data
Pump speed = ___________(rpm)
Discharge(Q)
Reading Manometer Manometer Net head h, Discharge

No. Reading h1, m Reading h2, m (h1- h2), m (Q),m3/sec
Head Developed by the Pump(H), WP
Reading Discharge Corrected Suction Corrected Manometric Water

No. Pressure To the Pressure To the Head Power
Gauge Center of Gauge Center of developed, Developed
Reading, Impeller Reading, Impeller Hmano= By pump
Pd*, N/m2 Pd, N/m2 Ps*, N/m2 Ps, N/m2 (Pd-Ps)/W, m WP, WQH
Shaft Power, Overall Efficiency(%)
Reading Speed(rpm) Voltage, Shaft Power, W Overall efficiency,

No. Volts η0, (WP/SP)

Page 26
(2004).
Figure 5.1

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PERFORMANCE TEST ON A RECIPROCATING PUMP

1. OBJECT
To study the reciprocating pump and determine its efficiency.
2. EQUIPMENT
 Single stage double acting-reciprocating pump

 Driving motor
The apparatus consists of a motor driving the single stage double acting-reciprocating
pump. The suction of pump is drawn through the sump level in the laboratory, the water after
passing through the air vessel reaches the side, which opens in the sump level itself. The suction
and discharge gauges can measure the suction and discharge pressures. The discharge can be
measured by V-notch.
Specifications
Driving motor power: 1.5 kW
Bore of the pump: 8.5 cm
Stroke: 8.1 cm
Strokes per minute: 120
3. PROCEDURE
Open fully the discharge valve of the pump. Put the tap water in the discharge side of the
pump until the pump is primed. Start the motor. Set the discharge through the pump at the
highest level. Read the suction and discharge pressure gauges and apply suitable correction
factor so that pressure is corrected to the center of the pump. Read the head (h1) in the notch.
Read the strokes per minute manually using a stopwatch. Read the supply voltage and amperage.
Gently close the valve to vary the flow rate. Repeat the readings. Take six sets of readings.

Page 28
Ensure that the discharge valve should never be closed fully during the readings. Let all the
water flow through the notch and read water level in the notch (h0).
4. CALCULATIONS
N Speed of the motor/pump in r.p.m

T Torque, N-m
A Area of cross section of pump, m2
L Stroke length, m
h Net head in the notch, m
Q Discharge, m3/sec = √
Ps, Pd Suction and delivery gauge reading, N/m2
Hmano Manometric head developed by the pump, m =
S.P Brake Power,
WP Water Power,
5. GRAPHS
Draw the following graphs. Study the trends revealed in the graphs and discuss in the final
report:
 Head as a function of discharge(actual)

 Percentage Slip as a function of discharge(actual)
 Efficiency as a function of discharge(actual)
 Water Power as a function of discharge (actual)
Determine the best efficiency point and the corresponding head and power.
6. REPORT

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method, analysis of the results and implication of the results for the use of the
Reciprocating pump. An explanation of why the characteristics are as they are would be
appropriate.
Reciprocating Pump Test Data
Discharge(Q)
Reading Final Hook Initial Hook gauge Net head on Discharge

No. Gauge Reading, The Weir, h, (Qact), m3/sec
Reading,h1,m h0,m (h1-h0),m
Theoretical Discharge(Qth), Slip
Reading Strokes per Strokes for Discharge Discharge Percentage

No. minute (N) double acting (Qth), m3/sec Coefficient slip
pump, N* =2N (ALN*)/60 Cd=Qact/Qth (Qth– Qact)/Qth
× 100
Head Developed by the Pump(H), WP
Reading Discharge Corrected to Suction Corrected to Manometric Water

No. pressure the center of Pressure the center of head Power
gauge the impeller Gauge the impeller developed, developed
reading, Pd*, Pd,N/m2 Reading, Ps, N/m2 Hmano= by Pump
N/m2 Ps*, N/m2 (Pd-Ps)/W, m WP, WQH
Reading No Amperage, Voltage, Shaft Power, W Overall efficiency,

Amp Volt ηo, (WP/SP)

Page 30
(2004).
Figure 6.1

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PERFORMANCE TEST ON A HYDRAULIC RAM

1. OBJECT
To study the working of Hydraulic ram and determine its efficiency.
2. EQUIPMENT
The Equipment Consist Of
 centrifugal pump
 supply tank
 ram
Apparatus consists of a close circuit through which water is circulated continuously by
means of a centrifugal pump with motor to make the supply from the sump tank. The sump tank
is provided with a drain valve in the bottom. A supply tank, at supply head, is provided with an
over flow arrangement, gauge glass tube and a drain valve. The supply tank is fitted with a pipe
connected to the ram. The ram has a spherical air vessel connected to deliver the useful water to
the collecting tank. A waste valve is provided in the rectangular chamber to discharge the
excessive water to the waste water collecting tank. A pressure gauge is provided with a
regulating valve on the delivery side of the ram.
Specifications
Supply head: 2.5 m
Delivery head: 15 m (Approx.)
Driving motor power: 0.75 kW
Size of impeller of the pump: 25 mm
Sump tank: 80 cm x 80 cm x 60 cm (l x b x h)
Supply tank: 50 cm x 50 cm x 30 cm
Waste-water tank: 30 cm x 50 cm x 30 cm
Collecting tank: 30 cm x 30 cm x 30 cm
Diameter of delivery pipe: 1.5 cm

Page 32
3. THEORY
The hydraulic ram is a device utilizing the water hammer principle. Rams are used when
a natural source of water like a spring or stream at low head is available at a nearby place to
pump a part of water to higher heads. No external energy is required by the hydraulic ram.
The principle of working of a Hydraulic Ram is that the hydraulic gradient varies as the
valve at the end of a pipe is closed. By causing the waste valve to open and close successively,
dynamic pressure or inertia pressure is generated in the supply pipe. This pressure forces the
water up the delivery pipe.
4. PROCEDURE
Start the pump and fill the supply tank. Check that the overflow is in the working condition.
Open the supply valve. Adjust the waste valve nut so that ram starts to work. After a few strokes
the water is discharged through delivery pipe and gets collected in the collecting tank. Measure
useful water in the collecting tank, the water in the waste tank and the number of beats of the
waste valve per minute and discharge pressure. Change the position of waste valve and repeat the
experiment.
5. CALCULATIONS
Q Discharge from supply tank to the ram, m3/s

q1 Discharge of useful water in the collecting tank, m3/s
q2 Discharge of waste water in the tank, m3/s
h1 Height of supply tank from the ram, m
h2 Height of collecting tank, m
There are two ways of assessing the efficiency of the ram.
Rankine efficiency =
D’Aubuisson’s efficiency =
6. GRAPHS
Draw the following graphs for each speed. Study the trends revealed in the graphs and discuss in
the final report
o Useful water discharge as a function of Beats per minute
o Waste water discharge as a function of Beats per minute
o Efficiency as a function of Beats per minute
Page 33
7. REPORT

method, analysis of the results and implication of the results for the use of the
Reciprocating pump. An explanation of why the characteristics are as they are would be
appropriate.
Hydraulic Ram Test Data
Area of the collecting tank 30 cm x 30 cm

Area of the waste water tank 30 cm x 50 cm
Reading No of Useful Water Discharge Waste Water Discharge Supply

No. Beats Measurement, q1, m3/s Measurement, q2, m3/s tank
Per discharge,
minute Initial Final Time, Discharge, Initial Final Time, Discharge, Q=(q1+q2),
Height, Height, Sec m3/s Height, Height, Sec m3/s m3/s
M M m m
Reading Discharge Delivery Suction Rankine D’Aubuisson’s

No. Pressure Head, h2, Head, h1, m Efficiency: efficiency:
Gauge M
Reading,
Pd*, N/m2
(2004).
Page 34
Figure 7.1

Page 35
PHENOMENON OF CAVITATION IN A LIQUID

1. OBJECT
To study the phenomenon of cavitation in a liquid (by reducing the liquid to its vapour pressure)
and comparison of theoretical and actual pressure at cavitation conditions
2. EQUIPMENT
This accessory consists of a circular Venturi-shaped test section manufactured from clear
acrylic to enable visualization inside the section. As the ﬂow of water increases the pressure at
the throat falls in accordance with the Bernoulli equation until a limit is reached corresponding to
the vapour pressure of the liquid. At this low pressure small bubbles of vapour form then
collapse violently as the pressure rises again downstream - a process called cavitation.Bourdon
gauges indicate the pressure upstream of the contraction, inside the throat and downstream of the
expansion in the test section. Flow control valves, upstream and downstream of the test section,
enable the ﬂow and pressure to be adjusted enabling cavitation to be clearly demonstrated.
3. THEORY
Cavitation is one of the most unpleasant hydrodynamic phenomenons, whose harmful

effects are both widespread and obvious and seriously handicap many phases of science and
engineering. Conversely its basic nature has long been veiled in mystery and only recently it is
beginning to be understood. Cavitation is a liquid phenomenon and does not occur under any
normal circumstances either in solids or gases. It is seldom observed in concerned field because
it normally occurs within closed opaque conduits. But now with the help of this set up
demonstration of its direct appearance and measurement of conditions is possible. Thus it is very
helpful for better understanding of cavitation, supports the theoretical statements and boosts the
further study in this regard. Here with this setup controlled cavitation could be produced,
detected & located.
In accordance with Bernoulli's equation the pressure at the throat of the Venturi-shaped
test section falls as the velocity of the water increases. However, the pressure can only fall as far
as the vapour pressure of the water at which point the water starts to vaporize - Cavitation
occurs. Any further increase in velocity cannot reduce the pressure below the vapor pressure so
the water vaporizes faster than stronger Cavitations occurs and Bernoulli's equation is not valid.
4. PROCEDURE
Cavitation is demonstration by forcing water through a contraction so that the static

pressure of the water reduces. When the static pressure is reduced any air dissolved air in the
water is released as bubbles. When the static pressure is reduced to the vapour pressure of the

Page 36
water, violent cavitation (vaporisation of the water) occurs. By restricting the flow downstream
of the test section the static pressure in the test section is increased. When the static pressure is
maintained above the vapour pressure increased flow rate is possible through the test section
without occurrence of cavitation.
1. Open the ball valve (right hand end) fully then close the inlet diaphragm valve (left hand
end) fully.
2. Close the flow control valve on F1-10. Switch on the F1-10 then slowly open the flow
control valve on F1-10 until it is fully open.
3. Slowly open the inlet diaphragm valve at the left hand end of the F1-28 and allow water
to flow through the F1-28 until the clear acrylic test section and flexible connecting tubes
are full of water with no air entrained.
4. Continue to open the inlet diaphragm valve slowly until fully open to obtain maximum
flow through the system. Note the milky formation at the throat indicating the presence of
cavitation. Also note the loud audible crackling sound accompanying the cavitation. Note
that the sound can be amplified by placing the blade of a large screwdriver (not supplied)
or similar tool against the body of the venturi-shaped test section then placing your ear
against the handle of the screwdriver. Observe that the visible cavitation occurs in the
expansion of the test section and not in the throat where the pressure is at its lowest (with
the exception of the pressure tapping hole in the throat that causes a local disturbance to
the flow).
5. If a thermometer is available measure and record the temperature of the water.
6. Close the inlet diaphragm valve until water slowly through the equipment with no
cavitation in the test section (typically 0.1 bar on the upstream gauge, P i) ensuring that
the section remains full of water.
7. Record the following parameters:
Upstream water pressure Pi, bar
Pressure at the throat Pt, bar (Vacuum)
Downstream water pressure Po, bar
8. Determine the flow rate by timing the collection of known volume of water:
Volume (Liters)
Time (Seconds)
9. Gradually open the inlet diaphragm valve to increase the upstream pressure in small steps
(typically 0.1 bar increments on the upstream gauge Pi). At each setting repeat steps (7)
and (8) and note the presence of any tiny bubbles in the water. At each setting wait for
the vacuum gauge to settle before recording the pressure at the throat (there will be a long
delay before the reading changes on the gauge when near to or at cavitation because
water inside the gauge is converting to vapour).

Page 37
10. Continue opening the inlet diaphragm valve in steps and recording/observing the
characteristics of the water until the maximum flow of water is achieved with the valve
fully open.
11. Gradually close the inlet diaphragm valve and observe that the cavitation ceases as the
pressure rises above the vapour pressure of the water (again there will be a long delay
before the reading on the pressure gauge starts to fall because vapour inside the gauge is
converting back to water).
12. Close the inlet diaphragm valve until water flows slowly through the equipment with no
cavitation in the test section (typically 0.1 bar on the upstream gauge P i) ensuring that the
test section remains full of water.
13. Close the outlet ball valve fully (the valve is perforated to allow water to flow when fully
closed).
14. Repeat steps 6-10 with the outlet restricted.
15. Repeat step 14 with different settings of the outlet ball valve (partially closed).
16. Close the flow control valve on the F1-10 then switch off the pump.
5. CALCULATIONS
Upstream diameter (di) 16mm

Throat diameter (dt) 4.5 mm
Downstream diameter (do) 16mm
Velocity at inlet (Vi)
Velocity head at inlet
Cavitation factor (K)
where Pi= Pressure at Inlet

Pt = Pressure at throat
6. GRAPHS
Draw the following graphs. Study the trends revealed in the graphs and discuss in the final
report:
 Throat pressure(Pt ) vs. volume flow rate (Q) for each set of readings
Determine the cavitation factor for each set of readings

Page 38
Cavitation Test Data
S.No. Volume Time Volume Upstream Throat Downstream Cavitation

of water (t), flow rate pressure pressure pressure factor (K)
(V), m3 sec (Q), (Pi), bar (Pt), bar (Po), bar
m3/sec
(2004).

Page 39

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THAPAR INSTITUTE OF ENGG. & TECH.

Course Code: UME-723

FLUID MACHINERY LABORATORY

Department of Mechanical Engineering Fluid Machinery Laboratory

S. No. Name of the experiment Equipment used Page No.

2 To draw the operating (constant Pelton Turbine 9

3 To draw the main (constant head) Francis Turbine 14

4 To draw the operating (constant Francis Turbine 19

5 To draw main and operating Centrifugal Pump 24

6 To study the Reciprocating Pump and Reciprocating Pump 28

7 To study the Hydraulic Ram and Hydraulic Ram Test 32

8 To study the phenomenon of Cavitation Test Rig 36

Department of Mechanical Engineering Fluid Machinery Laboratory

2. Francis turbine, 15 cm centrifugal pump coupled with 11.25 kW motor

3. Reciprocating pump driven by 1.5 kW motor.

4. Hydraulic ram equipment.

5. Centrifugal pump test rig 9.9 cm driven by 0.7 kW motor.

6. Cavitation test rig.

Department of Mechanical Engineering Fluid Machinery Laboratory

PERFORMANCE TEST ON A PELTON TURBINE

The Equipment consist of

 Two-stage hydraulic pump

Size of impeller of the pump: 7.5 cm

Power of the turbine: 3.75 kW

Department of Mechanical Engineering Fluid Machinery Laboratory

B.P. Brake Power=

Unit Speed Nu=

 Unit Speed vs. Unit Discharge

Department of Mechanical Engineering Fluid Machinery Laboratory

 The handout sheets

Pelton Turbine Test Data

Diameter of brake drum 30 cm

Head on turbine (H), WP

Reading No. Pressure Velocity Elevation Head, H Water

Brake Power (BP)

Reading Speed,N(rpm) Dead Spring Torque{(m1- Brake Power(BP)

Department of Mechanical Engineering Fluid Machinery Laboratory

Reading No. Efficiency(η) Unit Speed, Nu Unit Discharge, Unit Power, Pu

Department of Mechanical Engineering Fluid Machinery Laboratory

PERFORMANCE TEST ON A PELTON TURBINE

Department of Mechanical Engineering Fluid Machinery Laboratory

The equipment consist of

Driving motor power: 15 kW

Size of impeller of the pump: 7.5 cm

Power of the turbine: 3.75 kW

N Speed of the turbine in r.p.m

W.P. Water Power,

Unit Power Pu=

 Unit Power as a function of Unit Discharge

Determine the best efficiency point and the corresponding load.

 The handout sheets

Department of Mechanical Engineering Fluid Machinery Laboratory

Pelton Turbine Test Data

Diameter of brake drum 30 cm

Head on turbine (H), WP

Reading Pressure Velocity Elevation Head, H Water

Brake Power (BP)

Department of Mechanical Engineering Fluid Machinery Laboratory

Reading Speed,N(rpm) Dead Spring Torque{(m1- Brake Power(BP)

Reading Efficiency(η) Unit Speed, Nu Unit Discharge, Unit Power, Pu

Department of Mechanical Engineering Fluid Machinery Laboratory

PERFORMANCE TEST ON A FRANCIS TURBINE

The equipment consist of

Driving motor power: 11 kW