Numerical investigation of sediment erosion to the impeller in a double-suction centrifugal pump

Abstract

Based on Euler-Lagrange multiphase flow model and Finnie ductile material erosion model, using phase coupled SIMPLE algorithm, k-e RNG turbulence model and Reynolds Averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) equation, the solid-liquid two-phase flows in a double-suction centrifugal pump is simulated. The erosion rate and solid mass concentration distribution on the pressure and suction surfaces of blades were obtained in different situations, which include different solid mass concentration (2.17kg/m3, 8.66kg/m3 and 14kg/m3) and different sediment diameter (0.019mm, 0.036mm, and 0.076mm). By comparisons of the test and numerical simulation values, the reliability of numerical calculation method has been verified. The numerical simulation result obtained show that the Finnie ductile material erosion model can accurately predict the erosion rate and erosion areas on the impeller. The erosion rate is increases with solid sediment diameter or solid mass concentration increasing. The main erosion areas on the pressure surface of blades near the blade inlet and outlet and close to the hub, and on the suction surface of blades near the blade inlet and close to the hub. For different sediment diameter or solid mass concentration, the erosion rate on the pressure surface of blades is always greater than that on its suction surface.