Unnecessary Pump in a Frictionless Pipe: Impact on Pressure and Work

In summary, the conversation discusses the relationship between the energy balance and friction in a pump installed in a pipe where there is no need for it. Using the Bernoulli equation and continuity equation, it is shown that the head provided by the pump is equal to the friction in the pipe, indicating that the pump does no work in this scenario. The conversation further explores the implications of this analysis and discusses the effects of a flow regulator on the velocity and pressure in the pipe.
  • #1
msanx2
13
0
Imagine a pump is installed in a pipe where there would be no need for it (no friction, no height difference, etc.). In order for the energy balance to be correct, does this imply that the fluid would experience friction inside the pump the same as the head provided by the pump?
 
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  • #2
What energy balance ? Does it show anything with friction ?
 
  • #3
Suppose I would use Bernoulli equation to compare point 1 before the pump and point 2 after the pump:

$$ \frac{P_{1}}{\rho g} + \frac{v_{1}^2}{2g} + z_{1} + \Delta h_{p}= \frac{P_{2}}{\rho g} + \frac{v_{2}^2}{2g} + z_{2} + \Delta h_{f} $$

By the continuity equation, $$ v_{1} = v_{2} $$

Moreover, neglecting the pressure drop across the pump, $$ P_{1} = P_{2} $$

So, the previous equation becomes:
$$ \Delta h_{p}= \Delta h_{f} $$

If this analysis is correct, does it show that, when a pump is not needed (no energy input would be needed to overcome any fittings or friction in the pipe), the head that it produces is the same as the possible friction that it produces? I'm imagining this situation as if the pump stops the fluid and accelerates it again.

Thanks!
 
  • #4
##P_{1} = P_{2}## is a show stopper: it means the pump does no work. Conversely, if ##P_{1} < P_{2}## the pump does ##pV## work

I get the feeling I misunderstand your scenario: if there is a flow regulator further down the pipe and an unneeded pump is installed and turned on, the velocity stays the same but the pressure increases. Does that qualify ?
 

1. What is a pump in a frictionless pipe?

A pump in a frictionless pipe is a theoretical concept that describes a pump operating in a perfect environment with no friction or resistance in the pipe. This allows for the pump to operate at its maximum efficiency without any external factors affecting its performance.

2. How does a pump in a frictionless pipe work?

In a frictionless pipe, a pump works by creating a pressure difference between the inlet and outlet of the pipe. This pressure difference causes the fluid to flow through the pipe and towards the outlet. The absence of friction allows the pump to work with minimal energy loss, resulting in a highly efficient pumping process.

3. What are the advantages of a pump in a frictionless pipe?

The main advantage of a pump in a frictionless pipe is its high efficiency. With no friction to overcome, the pump requires less energy to operate, resulting in lower operating costs. Additionally, a pump in a frictionless pipe can handle a higher volume of fluid and operate at a faster rate compared to a pump in a pipe with friction.

4. Can a pump in a frictionless pipe exist in real life?

No, a pump in a frictionless pipe is a theoretical concept and cannot exist in real life. In reality, there will always be some level of friction and resistance in a pipe, which will affect the pump's performance. However, engineers and scientists strive to minimize friction and optimize pump design for maximum efficiency.

5. What are some real-world applications of a pump in a frictionless pipe?

Although a pump in a frictionless pipe cannot exist in reality, the concept is used in engineering and fluid mechanics to study and analyze the performance of pumps. It is also used as a benchmark for comparing the efficiency of different pump designs and technologies. In addition, the concept is applied in theoretical models to predict the behavior of fluids in frictionless pipes.

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