Optimization of Centrifugal Pump Impeller Outlet Vane Angle by Using Modal Analysis

Abstract

A centrifugal pump is one of the simplest pieces of equipment in any process plant. Liquid is forced into an impeller either by atmospheric pressure, or in case of a jet pump by artificial pressure. The vanes of impeller pass kinetic energy to the liquid, thereby causing the liquid to rotate. The liquid leaves the impeller at high velocity. The impeller is surrounded by a volute casing or in case of a turbine pump a stationary diffuser ring. The volute or stationary diffuser ring converts the kinetic energy into pressure energy. An impeller is a circular metallic disc with a built-in passage for the flow of fluid. As the performance of the pump depends on the type of impeller, it is important to select a suitable design and to maintain the impeller in good condition. It is important to recognize that the design of any machine involving aerodynamics, thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, stress analysis, vibration analysis, the selection of materials, and the requirements for manufacturing. Though impellers have been developed as highly efficient, design is still based on various empirical and semi empirical rules proposed by designers. Further the scope of work was extended towards performance evaluation of impeller by changing vane angle of impeller vanes. To optimize impeller vane angle, design and modeling of impeller for various vane angle. The modeling of the impeller will do by using solid modeling software, CATIA V5 R17. It is proposed to design a impeller for various vane angles, analyze its strength and deformation using FEM software like ANSYSE V12. Modal analysis is performed on impeller to find out first 5 natural frequencies