Flow around a reducing bend - effect on pumping work

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on optimizing the oil lubrication system of a race vehicle, specifically addressing the impact of a 120-degree bend in the piping that has been reduced from a 16mm inner diameter (-12JIC) to 13mm (-10JIC). The user is concerned about potential cavitation issues due to the change in diameter and the subsequent increase in energy required to maintain flow, as calculated using the equation Q = (Pi*(R^4)*P)/8*L*n. The analysis indicates that a 2.3 times greater input energy (P2) would be necessary to achieve the same flow rate (Q) at the reduced diameter.

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goodmans87
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Hi all,

On my race vehicle, one part I am looking at is reducing the pipe losses within the modified oil lubrication system (now dry sump). The main area in question is a 120 degree bend that the engines lubrication pump is pulling oil into the oil storage tank. This has been reduced in ID from 16mm (-12JIC) to 13mm (-10JIC). Naturally I aim keen to reduce the radii difference, however I am struggling to put to words the reasoning for why.

In short, could cavitation be an issue? Since for around 0.5m the pipework is 16mm then round the inlet to the pump 13mm and expanding into a larger pump housing (around 20mm inlet)?

Could I characterise this issue using Q = (Pi*(R^4)*P)/8*L*n, since Q is the same (positive displacement pump), as are L/n/Pi we are left with:

R1^4*(P1)=R2^4*(P2) ---->>> (16E-3)^4*P1=(13E-3)^4*P2 ------>>> 2.3P1=P2, meaning that a 2.3 x greater input energy would be required to turn the pump specific to this situation?

Any input appreciated!
 
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