Fluid Power Engineering

PCME601

By
Dr. Manoj Kumar Triveni
Assistant Professor
ME Department
• Water is flowing through a pipe at the end of which a nozzle is fitted. The diameter of the nozzle is 100 mm and the
head of the water at the nozzle center is 100 m. The jet of water strikes a flat plate inclined at 30° with the axis of the
jet. The coefficient of the velocity is given as 0.95. Find out: (i)The force exerted by the jet on the plate. (ii)The
components of the force in the direction normal to the jet. (iii)The ratio in which the discharge gets divided after
striking. [Ans: Vac =42.08, Fn = 6953.64 N, Fx = 3476.82, Fy = 6022.03, Q2/Q3 = 13.925]

• A jet of water of diameter 50 mm strikes a fixed pate in such a way that the angle between the plate and jet is 300.
The force exerted in the direction of the jet is 1471.5 N. Determines the rate of flow of water. [Ans: Q = 0.1075 m3/s
or 107.5 litre/s]

• A jet of water of diameter 10 cm strikes a flat plate normally with a velocity of 15 m/s. The plate is moving with a
velocity of 6 m/s in the direction of the jet and away from the jet. Find: (i) the force exerted by the jet on the plate (ii)
work done by the jet on the plate per second (iii) and efficiency of the jet. [Ans: Fx = 636.17, WD = 3817.02 J/s, η =
28.8%]]
• A 75 mm diameter jet having a velocity of 30 m/s strikes a flat plate, the normal of which is
inclined at 45° to the axis of the jet. Find the normal pressure on the plate, (i) When the plate is
stationary, (ii)When the plate is moving with a velocity of 15 m/s in the direction of jet, away
from the jet. (iii) Also determine the power and efficiency of the jet when the plate is moving.
[Ans: Fns = 2811.6 N, Fn = 702.9, WDr = 7455 W, η = 12.5%]

• A rectangular plate, weighing 60 N is suspended vertically by a hinge on the top horizontal

edge. The centre of gravity of the plate is 100 mm from the hinge. A horizontal jet of water 20
mm diameter, whose axis is 150 mm below the hinge impinges normally on the plate with a
velocity of 5 m/s. Determine:(i) The horizontal force applied at the centre of gravity to maintain
the plate in its vertical portion. (ii) The corresponding velocity of the jet, if the plate is deflected
through 30° and the same force continues to act at the centre of gravity of the plate. [Ans: F =
11.77 N, V = 9.24 m/s]
• A jet of water of 20 mm diameter and moving at 15 m/s, strikes upon the centre of a
symmetrical vane. After impingement, the jet gets deflected through 160° by the vane.
Presuming vane to be smooth determine: (i) The force exerted by jet on the vane, and (ii) The
ratio of velocity at outlet to that at inlet if actual reaction of the vane is 127 N. [Ans: F = 137.1
N, K= 0.847]

• A jet of water, 60 mm in diameter, strikes a curved vane at its centre with a velocity of 18 m/s.
The curved vane is moving with a velocity of 6 m/s in the direction of the jet. The jet is
deflected through an angle of 165°. Assuming the plate to be smooth, find: (i) Thrust on the
plate in the direction of jet, (ii) Power of the jet, and (iii) Efficiency of the jet. [Ans: Fx = 800.3
N, W= 4.8 kW, η = 58.25 %]
• A jet of water from a nozzle is deflected through 60° from its original direction by curved
plate which it enters tangentially without shock with a velocity of 30 m/s and leaves with a
mean velocity of 25 m/s. If the discharge form the nozzle is 0.8 kg/s, calculate the
magnitude and direction of the resultant force on the vane, if the vane is stationary. [Ans: Fx
= 14N, Fy = -17.32N, FR = 22.27N, α = 𝟓𝟏𝟎 ]
Fluid Power Engineering
PCME601

By
Dr. Manoj Kumar Triveni
Assistant Professor
ME Department
Hydroelectric Power Plant
Pelton Turbine
Pelton Turbine
Pelton Turbine
Pelton Turbine
Pelton Turbine Numerical
• A Pelton wheel has a mean bucket speed of 10 m/s with a jet of water flowing at the rate
of 700 liters/s under a head of 30 m. the buckets deflect the jet through an angle of 160𝑜 .
Calculate the power given by water to the runner and the hydraulic efficiency of the
turbine. Take 𝐶𝑣 = 0.98. [Ans: 𝒘ሶ = 𝟏𝟖𝟔. 𝟗𝟕𝒌𝑾, 𝜼𝒉 = 𝟗𝟒. 𝟓𝟒% ]

• A Pelton wheel is to be designed for the following specifications: Shaft power = 11,772
kW; Head = 380 metres; Speed = 750 rpm; Overall efficiency = 86%; Jet diameter is not
to exceed one-sixth of the wheel diameter. Determine: (i) The wheel diameter, (ii) The
number of jets required and (iii) Diameter of the jet. Take 𝐶𝑣 = 0.985 and ф = 0.45. [Ans:
d = 0.165m, D = 0.989 m, number of jets = 2]
Pelton Turbine Numerical
• The following data is related to a Pelton wheel: Head at the base of the nozzle = 80 m,
Diameter of the jet = 100 mm, Discharge of the nozzle = 0.30 𝑚3 /s, Power at the shaft=
206 kW, Power absorbed in mechanical resistance= 4.5 kW, Determine (i) Power lost in
nozzle and (ii) Power lost due to hydraulic resistance in the runner. [Ans: Power lost in
nozzle = 16.59 kW, Power lost in runner = 8.35 kW]

• A Pelton wheel is to be designed for a head of 60 m when running at 200 r.p.m. The
Pelton wheel develops 95.6475 kW shaft power. The velocity of the buckets = 0.45 times
the velocity of the jet, overall efficiency = 0.85 and 𝐶𝑣 = 0.98. [Ans: d = 85 mm, D =
1.44 m, w = 425 mm, Depth of buckets = 102 mm, Z = 24]
Rection turbine
Rection turbine
Function of Stay Vanes (used for bigger unit)
Flow Guidance:

• Stay vanes are fixed and primarily steer the water (or other fluid) towards the runner section, ensuring the water
is directed properly before it reaches the runner blades.

Swirl Reduction:
• They help reduce any swirl or uneven flow patterns at the inlet, contributing to more efficient and stable
operation.

Structural Support:
• The stay vanes also serve as structural members, connecting the upper and lower walls of the turbine, particularly
in the stay ring.

Part of a System:

• In a hydro-turbine (like a Francis turbine), stay vanes often work in conjunction with guide vanes (also called
wicket gates) which are adjustable and control the water flow rate and angle to the runner blades.

Optimization:

• The shape and design of the stay vanes are crucial for optimizing the flow, ensuring the water strikes the runner
blades at the correct angle for efficient energy transfer.
Difference between stay vanes and guide vanes
Stay Vanes:
• Function: Stay vanes are stationary blades that guide the incoming water flow towards the runner section,
minimizing swirling at the inlet.
• Role: They contribute to a more efficient flow and improve the turbine's overall performance by reducing
energy losses.
• Location: Located after the spiral casing and before the guide vanes.

Guide Vanes:

• Function: Guide vanes are adjustable blades that control the angle and flow rate of water entering the
turbine's runner blades.
• Role: They regulate the water flow to match the power demand, optimizing turbine efficiency and allowing
for adjustments in power output.
• Location: Situated between the stay vanes and the turbine runner.
• Also known as: Wicket gates
• An inward flow reaction turbine has external and internal diameters as 1 m and 0.5 m respectively. The
velocity of flow through the runner is constant and is equal to 1.5 m/s. Determine: (a) Discharge through the
runner, and (b) Width of the turbine at outlet if the width of the turbine at inlet = 200 mm. [Ans: B2 =400
mm]

• A reaction turbine works at 450 rpm under a head of 120 metres. Its diameter at inlet is 120 cm and the flow
area is 0.4 m2 . The angles made by absolute and relative velocities at inlet are 20° and 60° respectively with
the tangential velocity. Determine: (a) The volume flow rate, (b) The power developed, (c) Hydraulic
efficiency and degree of reaction. Assume whirl at outlet to be zero. [Ans: Q = 5.211 𝒎𝟑 /s, P = 5272.402
kW, 𝜼𝒉 = 85.95%, R = 0.3669]

• A wicket gate Francis turbine is to be set to extract 8000 kW of power from a flow of 30 m3 /s when running
at a speed of 200 rpm. The diameter of the runner at inlet is 3m and width is 0.9 m. the flow can be assumed
to leave the runner without whirl. Find wicket gate angle at the inlet. [Ans: 𝜶𝟏 = 𝟐𝟐. 𝟔𝟏𝟓𝒐 ]
Kaplan Turbine
Kaplan Turbine
• A Kaplan turbine working under a head of 20 m develops 11772 kW shaft power. The
outer diameter of the runner is 3.5 m and hub diameter is 1.75 m. The guide blade angle
at the extreme edge of the runner is 35°. The hydraulic and overall efficiencies of the
turbines are 88% and 84% respectively. If the velocity of whirl is zero at outlet,
determine: (i) Runner blade angles at inlet and outlet at the extreme edge of the runner,
and (ii) Speed of the turbine. [Ans: Q = 71.428 𝒎𝟑 /s, 𝜷𝟏 = 𝟕𝟖. 𝟗𝟕𝒐 , 𝜷𝟐 = 𝟑𝟗. 𝟎𝟑𝒐 ,
N=66.63 rpm]
Specific speed

• The speed at which the unit power gets developed under a unit head.

𝑁 𝑃
𝑁𝑠 = 5/4
𝐻
• Specific speed plays an important role in the selection of the type of turbine. By knowing the specific speed
of turbine the performance of the turbine can also be predicted.

• If a runner of high specific speed is used for a given head and power output, the overall cost of installation is
lower.

• The runner of too high specific speed with high available head increases the cost of turbine on account of
high mechanical strength required. The runner of too low specific speed with low available head increases the
cost of generator due to the low turbine speed.
• In a certain city there is a hydroelectric generation potential available. The head of water
available is 25 m and the power required by the hydroelectric turbine is 7200 kW. The
RPM of rotor must be 200. What type of the turbine should select?

𝑵 𝑷 𝟐𝟎𝟎 𝟕𝟐𝟎𝟎
We know 𝑵𝒔 = = = 𝟑𝟎𝟑. 𝟓𝟕𝟖 Kaplan or Propeller Turbine
𝑯𝟓/𝟒 𝟐𝟓𝟓/𝟒
• In a certain city there is a hydroelectric generation potential available. The head of water available
is 25 m and the power required by the hydroelectric turbine is 7225 kW. The RPM of rotor must be
135. What type of the turbine should select?
𝑵 𝑷 𝟏𝟑𝟓 𝟕𝟐𝟐𝟓
We know 𝑵𝒔 = = = 205.28 Francis Turbine
𝑯𝟓/𝟒 𝟐𝟓𝟓/𝟒

• In a hydroelectric station water is available at the rate of 175 𝑚3 /𝑠 under a head of 18 m. The
turbines run at a speed of 150 rpm with overall efficiency of 82%. Find the number of turbines
required if they have the maximum specific speed of 460. [Ans: n = 2]
Unit quantities
• For presenting the performance of geometrically similar turbines independent of the actual head,
discharge and power output, the unit characteristics are particularly useful.

• In order to predict the behaviour of a turbine working under varying conditions of head, speed, and
power output, the results are expressed in terms of quantities which may be obtained when the
head on the turbine is reduced to unity.

• The conditions of the turbine under unit head are such that the efficiency of the turbine remains
unaffected.

• Geometrically similar turbines will have the same unit characteristics under similar operating
conditions.

• Thus with the help of a model the performance of a prototype can be predicted within certain
limits.
Unit quantities
• For presenting the performance of geometrically similar turbines independent of the actual head,
discharge and power output the unit characteristics prove quite helpful.

• In order to predict the behaviour of a turbine working under varying conditions of head, speed,
output and gate opening, the results are expressed in terms of quantities which may be obtained
when the head on the turbine is reduced to unity. The conditions of the turbine under unit head are
such that the efficiency of the turbine remains unaffected.

• Geometrically similar turbines will have the same unit characteristics under similar operating
conditions.

• Thus with the help of a model the performance of a prototype can be predicted within certain
limits.
• A turbine is to operate under a head of 25 m at 200 rpm. The discharge
is 9 𝑚3 /𝑠. If the efficiency is 90%, determine the performance of the
turbine under a head of 20 metres. [Ans: N2 = 178.88 rpm, Q2 =
𝟖. 𝟎𝟓 𝒎𝟑 /𝒔, P1 = 1986.5 kW, P2 = 1421.442 kW]

• A hydro-turbine is required to give 25 MW at 50 m head and 90 rpm.

runner speed. The laboratory facilities available permit testing of 20
kW model at 5 m head. What should be the model runner speed and
model to prototype scale ratio? [Ans: Nm = 178.89 rpm, Lr = 6.827]
Draft Tube
Types of Draft Tube
Advantage of installing the turbine above tail race
Increased Efficiency:

• A draft tube reduces the velocity of water leaving the turbine, minimizing kinetic energy losses and maximizing the
usable energy extracted from the water.

Allows for Placement Above Tailrace:

• By converting kinetic energy into pressure energy, the draft tube allows the turbine to be placed above the tailrace
without a loss of head (effective water height).

Compact Designs:

• Placing the turbine above the tailrace reduces excavation requirements and can lead to more compact and efficient
power plant designs.

Easier Construction and Maintenance:

• Access for inspection and maintenance is significantly easier when the turbine is above the tailrace level,
simplifying construction and ongoing upkeep.
Improved Head Utilization:

• A draft tube helps utilize the available head (the difference in water level) effectively, even when the tailrace
level is lower than the runner exit.

Prevents Backflow:

• The draft tube prevents backflow of water from the tailrace into the turbine, ensuring efficient and stable
operation.

• A conical draft-tube having inlet and outlet diameters 1 m and 1.5 m discharges water at outlet with a
velocity of 2.5 m/s. The total length of the draft-tube is 6 m and 1.20 m of the length of draft-tube is
immersed in water. If the atmospheric pressure head is 10.3 m of water and loss of head due to friction
in the draft-tube is equal to 0.2 x velocity head at outlet of the tube, find: (i) Pressure head at inlet,
and(ii) Efficiency of the draft-tube. [Ans: Pressure Head = 4.27 m, 𝛈𝐝 = 𝟕𝟔. 𝟑%]
Advantages of Reaction Turbine

• Reaction turbines typically exhibit high hydraulic efficiency, making them efficient in converting
hydraulic energy into mechanical energy.

• These types of turbines are space-efficient and require less installation space.

• The design of reaction turbines is simple and straightforward, facilitating ease of construction and
installation.

• Reaction turbines are capable of operating under high temperatures and high-pressure conditions,
making them versatile in various applications.

• The blades of reaction turbines are known for their higher efficiency when compared to impulse
turbines.
Disadvantages of Reaction Turbine

• These turbines incur higher maintenance costs.

• In certain cases, cavitation issues may arise with these turbines.

• As the blades of this turbine are not symmetrical, it poses a drawback.

• A reaction turbine generates a high thrust force, which can be a concern in some applications.

Applications of Reaction Turbine

• Hydroelectric Power Generation: Reaction turbines, such as Francis and Kaplan turbines, are
extensively used in hydroelectric power plants to convert water flow into mechanical energy,
which is then converted into electrical energy to supply power to homes and industries.
• Water Pumping Stations: Reaction turbines are employed in water pumping stations to lift
water to higher elevations for various purposes, including irrigation, drinking water supply,
and industrial processes.

• Hydraulic Turbines in Dams: Large dams utilise reaction turbines to harness the potential
energy of water stored in reservoirs and convert it into electricity, providing a reliable and
renewable energy source.

• Marine Propulsion: In ships and submarines, reaction turbines are used as marine propulsion
systems to provide thrust for movement through the water.

• Gas and Steam Power Plants: Some advanced reaction turbines are employed in gas and
steam power plants to convert the energy of expanding gases into rotational mechanical
energy, which drives generators to produce electricity.
Centrifugal and Reciprocating pumps

By
Dr. Manoj Kumar Triveni
Introduction
• A hydrodynamic pump machine is a device which converts the mechanical energy held by a
device into potential and kinetic energy in fluid.

• Pump is the machine designed to move fluid and add energy to them.

Pumps enable a liquid to:

• Flow from a region or low pressure to one of high pressure.
• Flow from a low level to a higher level.
• Flow at a faster rate.
• There are two main categories of pump
according to design and principle of
operation:

• Rotodynamic pumps.

• Positive displacement pumps

Fxv
Hydraulic
Cylinder
VxI Txω PxQ
Electric Hydraulic
Motor Pump
Txω
Hydraulic
Motor
Centrifugal Pumps
• A centrifugal pump is a mechanical device used to
move liquids or slurries through a piping system.

• It works on the principle of converting rotational

kinetic energy (from the pump impeller) into the
energy of fluid flow.

• Applications: Used in industries such as water

treatment, oil & gas, chemical processing, HVAC
systems, and more.
Main Components of a Centrifugal Pump
• Impeller: The rotating component that imparts energy to the fluid. It is responsible for the
conversion of rotational energy into fluid energy.
• Casing: The outer shell of the pump, typically a volute or diffuser, that houses the impeller and
directs the fluid flow to the discharge.

• Suction Pipe: The inlet pipe through which the fluid enters the pump.

• Discharge Pipe: The outlet pipe where the pumped fluid is delivered.

• Shaft: The rotating element that connects the impeller to the motor.

• Bearings: Supports for the shaft, reducing friction and enabling smooth rotation.

• Seals: Prevent leakage of the pumped fluid.

• Volute: A spiral casing that directs fluid from the impeller to the discharge pipe, converting
velocity head into pressure head.
Work Done by a Centrifugal Pump

• The centrifugal pump works by converting mechanical energy (rotational energy) from the motor to
kinetic energy of the fluid via the impeller.

• As the impeller spins, it accelerates the fluid outward, and this increases the fluid's velocity.

• The casing helps convert this kinetic energy into pressure energy (head).

• The work done by the pump can be defined as:

𝜌 × 𝑄 ×(𝑣22−𝑣12)
Work Done (W)= 2

Where:
• ρ = Density of the fluid
• Q = Flow rate
• v1​ = Fluid velocity at the inlet
• v2​ = Fluid velocity at the discharge
Pump Efficiencies:

The efficiency of a centrifugal pump is a measure of how effectively it converts the input
mechanical energy into useful hydraulic energy.

• Hydraulic Efficiency (ηh): This measures how effectively the pump converts the energy
imparted by the impeller into the pressure energy of the fluid.

𝐻𝑦𝑑𝑟𝑎𝑢𝑙𝑖𝑐 𝑝𝑜𝑤𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑢𝑡𝑝𝑢𝑡

ηℎ =
𝐼𝑛𝑝𝑢𝑡 𝑝𝑜𝑤𝑒𝑟 𝑡𝑜 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑖𝑚𝑝𝑒𝑙𝑙𝑒𝑟

• Mechanical Efficiency (ηm): This efficiency considers the losses due to friction and wear in
the pump components (shaft, bearings, seals, etc.). It is the ratio of the mechanical power
transmitted by the pump shaft to the power delivered by the motor.
𝑀𝑒𝑐ℎ𝑎𝑛𝑖𝑐𝑎𝑙 𝑝𝑜𝑤𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑢𝑡𝑝𝑢𝑡
η𝑚 =
𝐼𝑛𝑝𝑢𝑡 𝑝𝑜𝑤𝑒𝑟 𝑓𝑟𝑜𝑚 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑚𝑜𝑡𝑜𝑟
• Overall Efficiency (ηo): The overall efficiency of the pump is the product of hydraulic and mechanical
efficiencies:

ηo=ηh×ηm

• Efficiency is usually shown in a performance curve for a pump, which allows operators to understand
how the pump will perform at various flow rates and heads.

Heads in Centrifugal Pump

• Total Head (H): The total height the pump can lift the fluid, considering both the pressure head and
velocity head.

H= Hstatic + Hvelocity + Hfriction

• Static Head: The vertical distance the liquid is lifted from the suction level to the discharge level.

• Velocity Head: The kinetic energy of the fluid related to its velocity.

• Friction Head: The loss of energy due to friction between the fluid and the internal surface of the
pump and piping system.
Losses in Centrifugal Pumps

• Frictional Losses: Losses due to friction between the fluid and the internal surfaces of the pump and piping.

• Mechanical Losses: Losses in the bearings, shaft, and seals.

• Volute Losses: Losses in the conversion of kinetic energy to pressure energy.

• Recirculation Losses: When the fluid does not flow smoothly and recirculates inside the pump,

Minimum Starting Speed

The minimum starting speed is the minimum rotational speed at which the pump can operate without stalling or
losing flow. If the speed is too low, the pump may not develop the necessary head and flow, resulting in insufficient
energy transfer.

Multistage Pumps

In a multistage centrifugal pump, multiple impellers are arranged in series. The fluid passes through each stage
(impeller) to achieve higher pressure output. This is used when higher pressure is required than a single-stage pump
can provide.
• The internal and external diameters of the impeller of a centrifugal pump are 200 mm and 400 mm
respectively. The pump is running at 1200 rpm. The vane angles of the impeller at inlet and outlet are 20°
and 30° respectively. The water enters the impeller radially and velocity of flow is constant. Determine
the work done by the impeller per unit weight of water.

• A centrifugal pump is to discharge 0.118 m3/s at a speed of 1450 rpm against a head of25 m. The
impeller diameter is 250 mm, its width at outlet is 50 mm and manometric efficiency is 75%. Determine
the vane angle at the outer periphery of the impeller.
Specific Speed (Ns)

Specific speed is a dimensionless number used to categorize pumps based on their geometry and
operating conditions. It is used to define the pump's suitability for a particular type of service, such as
high flow or high head.

𝑁 𝑄
𝑁𝑠 = 3/4
𝐻
Where:

• N is the speed in RPM.

• Q is the flow rate in gallons per minute (GPM) or cubic meters per second (m³/s).

• H is the total head in feet or meters.

Model Testing of centrifugal pump

• Specific speed coefficient

• Power coefficient

• Head or lift coefficient

• Flow coefficient
• A single-stage centrifugal pump with impeller diameter of 30 cm rotates at 2000 rpm and lifts 3 m³ of
water per second to a height of 30 m with an efficiency of 75%. Find the number of stages and
diameter of each impeller of a similar multistage pump to lift 5 m³ of water per second to a height of
200 metres when rotating at 1500 rpm. [Ans: n = 7, D2 = 391.2 mm]

• Find the number of pumps required to take water from a deep well under a total head of 89 m. All the
pumps are identical and are running at 800 rpm. The specific speed of each pump is given as 25 while
the rated capacity of each pump is 0.16 m³/s. [Ans: n = 7, D2 = 391.2 mm]
Net Positive Suction Head (NPSH)

NPSH is the pressure available at the pump's suction to prevent cavitation. It is a critical factor for
ensuring proper pump operation.

• NPSH Available (NPSHa): The total pressure at the suction minus the vapor pressure of the fluid.

• NPSH Required (NPSHr): The minimum pressure required at the suction side of the pump to
avoid cavitation.

• If NPSHa < NPSHr, cavitation can occur, leading to damage to the pump.
Cavitation

• Cavitation in a pump refers to the formation and collapse of vapor bubbles within the liquid being
pumped.

• This phenomenon occurs when the local pressure in the pump falls below the liquid's vapor
pressure, causing the liquid to vaporize and form bubbles.

• When these bubbles move to higher pressure areas, they collapse violently, creating shockwaves
that can damage the pump's components, such as the impeller.

Causes of Cavitation:

• Low inlet pressure: If the pressure at the pump's inlet is too low, it can cause the liquid to
vaporize, leading to cavitation.

• High pump speed: If the pump speed is too high, it can result in a lower pressure at the inlet,
promoting cavitation.
• High fluid temperature: Higher temperatures reduce the liquid's vapor pressure, making cavitation more
likely at higher pressures.

• Inadequate NPSH (Net Positive Suction Head): If the available NPSH is lower than the required NPSH,
cavitation is more likely to occur.

• Improper pump design or configuration: Poorly designed systems or improper installation can lead to
uneven flow and cause cavitation.

Effects of Cavitation:
• Damage to pump components: The high-pressure shockwaves caused by cavitation can erode impellers,
seals, and other pump parts.

• Reduced pump efficiency: Cavitation leads to inconsistent fluid flow, which can reduce the overall
efficiency of the pump.

• Vibration and noise: Cavitation produces characteristic noise and vibration, which can indicate the problem.
• Loss of flow or performance: The formation of bubbles disrupts the normal fluid flow, leading to
a drop in performance.

Preventing Cavitation:

• Ensure proper NPSH: Ensure the available NPSH is higher than the required NPSH to avoid
cavitation.

• Maintain proper system pressure: Keeping the system pressure high enough at the pump inlet
prevents vaporization of the liquid.

• Control pump speed: Avoid running the pump at excessive speeds that can reduce inlet pressure.

• Use the correct pump for the application: Selecting the right pump type and size for the specific
fluid and system conditions can help avoid cavitation.
Priming in Pumping is a concept related to the operation of centrifugal pumps, which is crucial to
ensure the pump functions properly. When a pump is first started, especially in a self-priming pump
or a pump that needs to be primed, air inside the pump and suction line must be removed and
replaced with liquid to establish the required suction pressure.

Priming Process:

• Start the pump: Initially, the pump may be full of air, causing no liquid flow. Priming removes the
air.

• Create a vacuum: As the pump operates, it creates a vacuum in the suction line, causing the liquid
to move into the pump from the suction source (e.g., a tank or well).

• Remove the air: The air in the pump and the suction pipe is displaced by the incoming liquid.

• Continuous operation: Once all air is removed, the pump can continue running and pumping
liquid efficiently.
Selection of Pumps

When selecting a centrifugal pump, several factors should be considered:

• Flow rate: The desired volume of fluid to be pumped.

• Head: The height to which the fluid needs to be lifted or the pressure to be overcome.

• Type of fluid: The chemical composition, viscosity, and temperature of the fluid.

• Efficiency requirements: Desired pump performance, balancing energy consumption and capacity.

• Pump type: Whether a single-stage or multistage pump is required.

Operational Difficulties of Centrifugal Pumps

• Cavitation: Caused by low NPSH, resulting in pump damage and reduced efficiency.

• Vibration: Can result from unbalanced impellers, misalignment, or cavitation.

• Seal Failures: Leakage from worn-out seals, leading to fluid loss and potential pump damage.

• Air Entrainment: Air entering the pump can disrupt the flow, causing operational problems.

• Overheating: Due to excessive friction, insufficient flow, or motor issues.

Design Considerations

When designing a centrifugal pump, considerations should include:

• Material selection: Based on fluid properties (e.g., corrosion-resistant materials for acidic fluids).

• Pump geometry: To ensure optimal flow and pressure characteristics.

• Impeller design: To optimize efficiency and reduce losses.

• Bearing selection: For durability and smooth operation.

• Pump size and motor compatibility: Ensuring the motor can handle the required load without
overloading.
Reciprocating Pump

• A reciprocating pump is a type of positive displacement pump that moves fluid by using a back-
and-forth (reciprocating) motion of a piston within a cylinder. It is commonly used for pumping
fluids at a relatively high pressure.
Main Components of a Reciprocating Pump

1. Cylinder and Piston: The cylinder houses the piston, which moves back and forth to displace the
fluid.

2. Suction and Discharge Valves: These valves control the flow of fluid into and out of the pump
during each stroke of the piston.

3. Crank Mechanism: Converts rotary motion from the motor into the reciprocating motion of the
piston.

4. Connecting Rod: Links the crank to the piston and transfers motion.

5. Air Vessel: A chamber that smooths the flow and reduces pulsation by storing compressed air.

6. Pump Frame: Holds the components together and supports the pump's operation.
Working of a single-acting reciprocating pump
Slip Indication Diagram

• A slip diagram indicates the relationship between pump discharge and pressure for a given pump.

• Negative slip: In most of the reciprocating pumps Qact. is less than Qth.; in such a case
the value of Cd is less than unity and the slip of the pump is ‘positive’.
• However, in some cases Qact. may be more than Qth.; in such a case Cd is more than unity and the
slip will be ‘negative’.

• The negative slip is possible in case of pumps having long suction pipe and a short delivery pipe,
especially when these are operating at high speeds.

• A single-acting reciprocating pump, running at 50 rpm delivers 0.00736 m3/s of water. The
diameter of the piston is 200 mm and stroke length 300 mm. The suction and delivery heads are 3.5
m and 11.5 m respectively. Determine: (i) Theoretical discharge, (ii) Co-efficient of discharge, (iii)
Percentage slip of the pump, and (iv) Power required to run the pump. [Ans: Qth =0.00785 m3/s,
Cd = 0.937, %S = 6.24, P = 1.155kW]
Centrifugal Compressor
Centrifugal Compressor

A centrifugal compressor uses a rotating disk or impeller to increase the pressure of the fluid. The
fluid is drawn into the center of the impeller and accelerated radially outward, which increases its
velocity. This velocity is then converted into pressure in the diffuser. These compressors are typically
used in applications where high flow rates and moderate pressure increases are required.

• Components:

• Impeller: Spins to impart energy to the fluid.

• Diffuser: Converts the high velocity into pressure.

• Volute: Directs the flow into the discharge.

• Bearings and Shaft: Supports the rotating components.

• Applications: Gas turbines, refrigeration systems, HVAC systems.

• Axial Flow Compressor
Axial Flow Compressor

An axial flow compressor uses a series of rotating blades to progressively increase the pressure of the
fluid as it moves axially (along the length of the compressor). The fluid is compressed gradually by
each stage of rotating blades and stators.

• Components:

• Rotors (Blades): These rotate and add velocity to the air.

• Stators: Fixed blades that direct the flow and convert velocity into pressure.

• Shaft: Drives the rotors.

• Applications: Jet engines, large-scale industrial compressors.

Comparison between Centrifugal and Axial flow compressor
Fans

A fan is a device that moves air (or gases) using a rotating set of blades. Fans generally operate at low
pressures and high flow rates. They are commonly used for ventilation, cooling, and in HVAC
systems.

Components:
• Rotor/Impeller: Moves the air.
• Housing: Directs the airflow.
• Motor: Powers the fan blades.

Types:

• Axial Fans: Air moves in the same direction as the axis of rotation.

• Centrifugal Fans: Air is moved at right angles to the axis of rotation.

Blowers

A blower is a type of fan that operates at higher pressures than a standard fan. Blowers are designed
to move air or gas at relatively high pressure and low flow rate.

• Applications: Pneumatic conveying, ventilation systems, industrial processes.