Analysis and Comparison of Two Kinds of Design Approaches for Volutes of Centrifugal Pump

It is a commonly used method to design volutes for centrifugal pumps by applying statistical data. Different statistical analyses were performed by various pump technicians based on different pump samples and data-processing methodologies. When the performance parameters at the design point of a pump are given, differences in the geometrical parameters and hydraulic characteristics of the finalized volute may exist if different statistical data are applied in the volute design procedure. Two types of typical statistical data extensively used by engineers for volute design were described systematically. As the wetted perimeters of volute sections and volute inlet width are considered two key parameters that have a considerable impact on the hydraulic performance of pumps, one type of statistical data introduced a new shape of volute sections to reduce the wetted perimeter and friction area. In the second type of statistical data, the volute inlet width could be governed by designers to improve flow behavior at the volute entrance. To compare the energy-saving effects of the two types of volute design guidelines, the models of the wet parts of three pumps with different design flows and heads were established.