Experimental study on the parameters affecting the performance of spiral tube pump

Abstract

This experimental study delves into the critical parameters influencing the performance of spiral tube pumps—a centuries-old technology attributed to H.A. Wirtz in 1746. The Spiral Tube Pump system, constructed using a transparent flexible tube wound spirally on a waterwheel, harnesses the kinetic energy of a river, offering a simple, cost-effective, and emission-free irrigation solution using locally available materials. Operating on the principles of a manometer, water and air plugs are pushed into the pipe alternately by the pump. Key factors crucial to enhancing the performance of this technology are investigated, focusing on submergence ratio, rotational speed, outer diameter, and the number of turns of the spiral tube. The experimental setup involves a prototype featuring a 4-meter-long, ¾-inch diameter transparent flexible tube spirally wound on a 1.5-meter-wide water wheel, achieving a maximum output of approximately 30 L per minute discharge and a 3.3-meter head. Through a series of rigorous experimental procedures, it becomes evident that wheel speed and submergence ratio significantly impact the pump’s discharge. For 600% increase in wheel speed, up to about 500% discharge increase was observed. Also for 300% increase in submergence ratio, up to about 275% increase in discharge was observed. The number of spiral turns predominantly influences the pump’s head. For 100% increase in spiral turn, up to about 33% increment in head was observed. And the outer diameter affects both discharge and head. For 87% increase in outer diameter, up to about 80% of increase in discharge and up to about 163% increase in head was observed. These findings underscore the adaptability of the Spiral Tube Pump design to specific irrigation field conditions. For instance, in scenarios where the irrigation field is elevated relative to the river, incorporating a greater number of spiral tube turns can enhance the pump’s efficiency in transporting water to the desired location.