OpenFOAM Simulation and Validation of Results for Vortex Pumps with Winglets

Abstract

This research presents OpenFOAM computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations used to investigate flow phenomena in SuperVortex pumps—vortex pumps equipped with partial impeller channel shrouds (winglets). The numerical model was developed using the Multiple Reference Frames (MRF) approach combined with the Realizable k-e turbulence model, which provided the best agreement with experimental data while maintaining reasonable mesh sizes. A comprehensive mesh sensitivity analysis was conducted to determine the optimal balance between accuracy and computational cost. Depending on geometric complexity, the computational mesh contained between 8 and 12 million elements. The simulations showed that shrouds on the suction side of the impeller blades significantly reduced over-tip leakage between impeller channels, thereby enhancing pump performance. At the Best Efficiency Point (BEP), the deviation from experimental data was particularly low—less than 1% for head and approximately 0.5–1% for efficiency. Model validation across the full operating range yielded average deviations of 5.8% for head and 8.4% for efficiency compared to experimental measurements.