Abstract

A combined experimental and numerical study was conducted to better understand the 3-dimensional flow development in 120° curved rectangular ducts with continuously varying curvature (Cr) that are commonly used for blade profile design of solid–liquid two-phase centrifugal pumps. Three different types of curvature (double circular line, spiral line and involute line) and three different aspect ratios (Ar=0.4, 1 and 2.3) were studied to analyze the development of axial velocity in the horizontal mid-plane (z=0) and secondary flow patterns at various cross-sections along the ducts. The inlet flow satisfied fully developed turbulent condition, with Reynolds number ranged from Reb=2.4×104 to 1.4×105. The flow fields were measured using Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) and numerical simulations were performed by solving the Reynolds Averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) equations. The results reveal complex changes in the flow pattern with respect to both the flow and geometric parameters (Re, Cr and Ar) in terms of onset, development and disappearance of different types of Dean vortex. Comparison with the literature confirms that the flow development in these ducts with continuously varying curvature is quite different from that in conventional curved ducts with constant curvature.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.