Optimization of centrifugal pump performance with various blade number

Abstract

The present study evaluates an experimental study on performance of centrifugal pump. The experimental test section consists of a single-stage centrifugal pump and impeller with various numbers of blade (5, 6 and 7 blades), which is completed by the installation of pressure gauge and rotameter for collecting data of pressure and flow rate, respectively. The operating speed of pump was varied at 1450, 2050, and 2750 revolution per minute (rpm). The effects of different numbers of blade on the impeller and the performance of the centrifugal pump were investigated in terms of head pump (H), hydraulic power (Phydraulic), and efficiency (η). The results clearly demonstrate a strong influence of the rotational speed on the performance of centrifugal pump. All performance parameters tend to be sensitive against the change in the rotational speed rather than the change in the number of blade. The flow rate of pump operation is a key important role on the performance of head, power and efficiency. The use of impeller with various numbers of blade does not contribute a significant effect on the performance of centrifugal pump.