Study on rotating stall characteristics of centrifugal pumps based on gamma transition model

Abstract

The phenomenon of rotating stall in centrifugal pumps is closely associated with the evolution of the blade boundary layer. Aiming to accurately predict the characteristics of the boundary layer, this study investigates the phenomenon of rotating stall in centrifugal pump impellers using the gamma (γ) transition model. The accuracy of the numerical simulation was confirmed by comparing its conclusions with the results of the testing. In calculations considering transition characteristics, the distribution of low-pressure areas inside the impeller is relatively discontinuous, while the pressure distribution is more uniform. However, in calculations without considering transition, the low-pressure regions in neighboring flow channels exhibit a tendency to be interconnected, resulting in a more variable pressure distribution, and the pressure contour at the outlet is closer to parallel. The dynamic characteristics of the centrifugal pump impeller rotating stall were obtained through the dynamic mode decomposition method, including the frequency, structure, and dynamic evolution process of the stall vortex. Through modal reconstruction, it was discovered that the impeller's rotation causes the stall vortex to undergo periodic fluctuations. The stall vortex is not stationary but moves synchronously with the rotation of the blades. At different time points, the stall vortex exhibits periodic changes. At the blade suction entrance, the stall vortex initially appears. Subsequently, multiple vortex structures resulted in channel blockage. After a period of development, the excess vortex structures merge to generate a typical “8” shaped vortex structure and move toward the exit. Finally, the exit stall vortex disappears, and a new vortex structure is generated at the inlet of the blade suction surface.