Numerical comparative analysis of the energy conversion process in a semi-open and closed impeller of a centrifugal pump
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17512/INSTAL.2026.09.01Keywords:
centrifugal pump, semi-open impeller, closed impeller, numerical analysis, CFDAbstract
The article presents a numerical comparative analysis of the energy conversion process in semi-open and closed impellers of a centrifugal pump, whose blade systems were designed for identical operating conditions. Based on CFD simulations, the flow structure, pressure distribution, and velocity fields were analyzed for both design configurations. The results indicate that vortical regions develop in the semi-open impeller, leading to significant energy losses, primarily due to axial clearance. The design of the closed impeller enables higher outlet velocities, greater head, and improved efficiency by reducing hydraulic losses and stabilizing flow conditions. At the nominal flow rate (Qn = 500 dm³/min), the introduction of an axial clearance of 0,5 mm resulted in an approximately 11% reduction in head and a decrease in hydraulic efficiency of more than 6%. Furthermore, these differences become increasingly pronounced as the flow rate decreases for the analyzed impeller configurations. The study confirms the usefulness of numerical methods for analyzing detailed flow phenomena and demonstrates the significant impact of impeller design on energy conversion efficiency in centrifugal pumps.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Konrad Babul, Andrzej Kochmański, Palacksone Vongxayalath, Tomasz Dębski (Autor)
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