Solving Impeller Analysis: 3 Unknowns & 0 Inlet Velocity?

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on analyzing a small impeller to derive the torque-speed graph, highlighting the challenge of dealing with three unknowns in the torque equation. The user employs the equation M = ˙m (u Ri - u Ro) and substitutes relative velocities based on geometric angles, leading to a complex equation with three unknowns. The conversation emphasizes the need for a third equation to resolve these unknowns and questions the feasibility of assuming zero inlet velocity. For theoretical analysis, the recommendation is to consult "Centrifugal and Axial Flow Pumps" by A. J. Stepanoff.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of fluid dynamics principles, particularly related to impeller mechanics.
  • Familiarity with torque equations in rotational systems.
  • Knowledge of relative velocity concepts in fluid flow.
  • Basic grasp of pump performance characteristics and pump curves.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the torque-speed relationship in centrifugal pumps using empirical data.
  • Learn about the derivation and application of pump similarity equations.
  • Examine the impact of inlet velocity on pump performance and torque calculations.
  • Read "Centrifugal and Axial Flow Pumps" by A. J. Stepanoff for in-depth theoretical insights.
USEFUL FOR

Engineers, fluid dynamics researchers, and anyone involved in pump design or performance analysis will benefit from this discussion.

billy k
Messages
2
Reaction score
0
TL;DR
Impeller torque per speed description
Hello there, I am trying to analyze an impeller i found at home (small one) so i can find the torque-speed graph. The thing is that i get stuck in an equation with 3 unknowns instead of 2 and i don't know what else to assume.
My approach is as follows:
I take the usual equation: ## M = \dot{m} ( u_{iφ} R_i - u_{oφ} R_o) ## where M is the torque and i assume that ## u_{rel}## (relative velocity) is tangent to the geometry (see the image). So i substitue: ## u_{iφ} = ωR_i - u_{rel,i} cos(25^o) , u_{oφ} = ωR_o - u_{rel,o} cos(21^o)##
and for the mass flow (which by the way the inlet area and outlet area are equal by geometry) :
## \dot{m} = ρ A_i u_{rel,i} sin(25^o) = ρ A_o u_{rel,o} sin(21^o) ## which gives the relation between the relative speeds (the ω term adds nothing to mass flow).
Therefore i end up with:
## M = [2π R_i b_i u_{rel,i} sin(25^o) ]* [ ω(R_o - R_i) - u_{rel,i} ( cos(25^o) - cos(21^o) * \frac{sin(25^o)}{sin(21^o)} ] ##
The last equation has the 3 unknowns and using the Μ-ω of a motor for example i still lack an equation.
Thats my question; what is the third equation? or have i done something wrong so far?
I also want to ask if its realistic to set the inlet velocity to 0 (no whirl at entrance).
Thanks in advance.
 

Attachments

  • impeller.png
    impeller.png
    26.3 KB · Views: 273
Engineering news on Phys.org
Not to nitpick, but pump torque is heavily dependent on flow in addition to speed. If you really want to do a theoretical analysis of a pump impeller, get a copy of Centrifugal and Axial Flow Pumps, by A. J. Stepanoff. If you don't want to buy it, borrow a copy by interlibrary loan.

I have a copy, I read it, and I convinced myself that I do not ever want to do a theoretical analysis of a pump. Especially since it is so much easier to find the pump curve for a similar pump, then extrapolate using the pump similarity equations.
 
  • Like
Likes Asymptotic and berkeman
Had my central air system checked when it sortta wasn't working. I guess I hadn't replaced the filter. Guy suggested I might want to get a UV filter accessory. He said it would "kill bugs and particulates". I know UV can kill the former, not sure how he thinks it's gonna murder the latter. Now I'm finding out there's more than one type of UV filter: one for the air flow and one for the coil. He was suggesting we might get one for the air flow, but now we'll have to change the bulb...

Similar threads

  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
973
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 175 ·
6
Replies
175
Views
26K
Replies
26
Views
6K
  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
7K