Research on the effects of volute area ratios on centrifugal pump internal flow and noise

Abstract

Centrifugal pumps, which are essential for the transfer of fluids, are extensively utilized in industries like aerospace and new energy vehicles. These fields require pumps to meet rigorous standards in terms of reliability, efficiency, and vibrational noise while also imposing stringent restrictions on their size and weight. Therefore, achieving optimal performance in terms of both efficiency and noise reduction for centrifugal pumps in limited space poses a considerable difficulty. This study investigates the impact of different volute area ratios on the internal flow properties and noise levels of centrifugal pumps, using area ratio theory as a foundation. Both experimental and computational simulations are used, with the pump dimensions kept constant. The results demonstrate that an augmentation in the volute area ratio greatly improves the pump's exterior properties, notably decreases internal vorticity, and boosts flow conditions. The pressure fluctuations in the pumps show an overall decrease, accompanied by changes in their distribution patterns. In addition, the sound pressure levels in the exterior sound field of the pumps typically decrease, accompanied by obvious changes in directivity. The sound pressure levels within the internal sound field are significantly reduced, especially in areas of the volute wall that were previously known for having high sound pressure. By analyzing the relationship between sound pressure and pressure pulsation on the wall surface of the volute, as well as the impact of area ratio on pressure pulsation distribution in the sound field of the centrifugal pump, it is evident that the theory of area ratio can be utilized to effectively decrease pressure pulsation in the centrifugal pump, thereby reducing the noise generated by the pump.