CFD analysis for pump design and performance evaluation

Designing highly efficient pumps requires transitioning from traditional trial-and-error methods to advanced Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) approaches and tools. Impeller Pumps: Design and Performance Evaluation using Computational Fluid Dynamics provides researchers and engineers with detailed methodologies for applying CFD to centrifugal, axial flow, mixed flow, vortex, and multistage pumps. Written by authors with extensive experience in CFD and pump technology, this reference delivers actionable simulation techniques.

The book progresses from velocity triangle calculations and energy conversion theories through advanced three-dimensional modeling techniques. Each pump type receives dedicated coverage of geometry modeling, grid generation, boundary conditions, flow solver setup for steady and transient simulations, and post-processing of data. Topics such as cavitation, flow-induced vibration, and partial-load performance optimization are addressed.

Readers will also find:

• Hydraulic calculation formulas for main flow components including impellers, guide vanes, and volute casings across multiple pump configurations
• Similarity laws and design methods for blade pumps with focus on achieving optimal hydraulic efficiency across varying operating conditions
• Detailed numerical simulation workflows for predicting pump performance, identifying optimization opportunities, and troubleshooting design challenges systematically
• Coverage of emerging trends in pump design including energy efficiency optimization for sustainable industrial practices
• Discussion of real-world applications of various types of pumps in water management systems and critical chemical and petroleum industry processes

Prepared for researchers in pump analysis and design, engineers working with hydraulic machinery across industries, and graduate students specializing in fluid dynamics of pumps, this reference provides the computational tools and simulation methodologies needed to design, analyze, optimize, and troubleshoot impeller pumps for enhanced performance and efficiency.

Wei Li, PhD, is a Professor at Jiangsu University and Deputy Director of the National Research Center of Pumps in China. He has published over 100 journal papers, holds 35 patents, and received China’s National Science and Technology Award.

Leilei Ji, PhD, is a Research Scientist at Jiangsu University in China specializing in CFD simulations of pumps. He has authored over 50 journal publications on CFD applications to analysis of pumps.

Ramesh K. Agarwal, PhD, is the William Palm Professor of Engineering in the department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science at Washington University in St. Louis with 50 years of CFD experience. He has authored over 600 publications and received the 2022 ASME Fluids Machinery Design Award.