Sand erosion prediction in a centrifugal pump

In the present study, 3D simulations of a centrifugal pump are presented using Vista CPD with the aid of ANSYS software. The CFD analysis of centrifugal pump used steady Reynold-averaged Navier-Stokes equating along with the k — ε turbulence model. The pump performance is presented as the fluid head against capacity of the pump for different rotational speed. Detailed contours plot of pressure and velocity vectors are shown for different operating conditions. Simulation for the sand erosion rate at different rotational speed and different particle size were also carried out. Results showed that head is a function of capacity and the erosion rate increases with increasing either the speed or particle size.