Bench Testing of a Pump with a Self-Adjusting Impeller

Abstract

Hydrodynamic forces in gap seals of centrifugal pumps play a leading role in stabilizing the vibration activity of pump rotors. Non-contact seals of the flow part can perform the functions of internal support-sealing units of a centrifugal pump. The impeller self-aligns in symmetrical gap seals under the action of hydrodynamic forces and moments. According to the method proposed by the author for calculating the elements of the flow-through part of a centrifugal pump with gap supports-seals, a pump with a self-adjusting impeller was created. The modernized pump was subjected to lengthy hydraulic testing on a test bench.