The best efficiency point for pumps in series is determined by the intersection of the system curve and the pump performance curve. The system curve represents the total head against flow rate, derived from the sum of friction losses in the piping and fittings. This remains constant regardless of the number of pumps in series. To analyze multiple pumps, refer to the Engineering Toolbox articles on pump system curves and performance in series.
PREREQUISITESEngineers, fluid dynamics specialists, and anyone involved in the design and optimization of pumping systems will benefit from this discussion.
theone said:Homework Statement
I read here http://www.engineeringtoolbox.com/pump-system-curves-d_635.html
that this is where the system curve and the pump performance curve intersect.
But if the situation involves pumps in series, what will the system curve be a plot of? Is it flow rate and the total pump head?
Homework Equations
The Attempt at a Solution
SteamKing said:The system curve is derived from totaling up all of the friction losses in the piping and fittings for different flow rates. It's going to be the same regardless of how many pumps there are. The pump curve is superimposed on the system curve to determine the operating point for the piping system.
If you know the performance of an individual pump, performance for multiple pumps in parallel or in series can be determined according to this article:
http://www.engineeringtoolbox.com/pumps-parallel-serial-d_636.html