The Simulation of Non-Newtonian Power-Law Fluid Flow in a Centrifugal Pump Impeller

Abstract

The performances of a centrifugal pump are affected when handling non-Newtonian liquids, requiring a larger power input than same pump handling water. In this paper, the power-law fluid model was implemented to study the non-Newtonian effects on the centrifugal pump impeller when the working fluid is the 7.5% by weight aqueous solutions of carboxy-methycellulose (CMC). The standard k- e two-equation model is used for the closure of turbulent incompressible flow. The results of non-Newtonian power law fluid are compared with those of water in the turbulence flow regime. It is found that the steady flow characteristics of the non-Newtonian power law fluid and of the water have a plenty of differences. This indicates that the non-Newtonian power law characteristics of the CMC 7.5% might be an important factor in determining the internal flow patterns and the general performances of a centrifugal impeller.