Flow characteristics and factors affecting flow pulsation of external meshing herringbone gear pump

Abstract

To enhance the outlet flow stability of the external herringbone gear pump, an analysis was conducted on the main influencing factors, key geometric parameters were identified, and a numerical model was developed for fluid analysis. A numerical model was then established for fluid analysis. The accuracy of the numerical model was verified by comparing it with experimental results, with simulation errors of displacement and volumetric efficiency being < 5%, ensuring the simulation's accuracy. The simulation results indicated that the pump's head (49.7808 m) and outlet pressure (4.9285 bar) remained stable. At 700 rev/min, the simulated volumetric efficiency was 82.94%. Subsequently, the impact of helix angle, changes in center distance, and tip clearance on outlet flow stability were analyzed. The analysis revealed that increasing the helix angle from 27° to 30° could reduce flow pulsation. A slight reduction in center distance from 180.3 (δ = +0.3 mm) to 179.9 mm (δ = −0.1 mm) effectively decreased mass flow difference and outlet pressure pulsation, enhancing outlet output stability. Reducing tip clearance from 0.25 to 0.12 mm, while meeting design requirements, resulted in more stable pressure and lift output. These results ensured smooth pump operation, improved outlet output stability, and met low-flow pulsation requirements. This study offered valuable insights into the design and production of the external meshing herringbone gear pump.