Development and Performance Evaluation of a Pneumatic Fluid Pumping System

Abstract

This project is based on the development of a pneumatic pumping system that operates using pneumatic cylinders as the actuator. The pump is self-priming and supplies fluids at high pressure and constant flow rates compared to normal centrifugal pumps. In this work, a 3D model is developed using Solid-works software and the pneumatic circuit used is simulated using FESTO fluid simulator. The modelling and design of the Pneumatic fluid pumping system were done using existing design parameters of a reciprocating pump as the basis and in fabricating the system. The performance evaluation of the pumping system was carried out by conducting integrity test on the joints and valves by introducing compressed air at a constant pressure of 10 bar into the cylinders to ascertain any leakages through the joints and valves. Also, experimental plots of discharge head against flow rates in the range of 800 to 7890 mm give flowrate between 3.87 × 10-4m3/sec to 1.48 × 10-4m3/sec, respectively were obtained. The wear and tear in the system have been reduced due to reduction in moving parts and the elimination of prime movers. The design will find useful application in oil and gas industries and where flows through high suction and head are need. Based on the results are presented, recommendations to improve the system for better performance were also suggested.