CFD Analysis of Counter-Rotating Impeller Performance in Mixed-Flow Pumps

This study presents a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis of the performance of counter-rotating impeller systems in mixed-flow pumps. The analysis evaluates the impact of varying rotor velocity ratios and blade geometry on head rise, efficiency, and hydraulic losses. Through detailed CFD simulations, the counter-rotating system demonstrates significant improvements in head and efficiency at low flow rates, with model B achieving up to 20% higher efficiency near the best efficiency point (BEP). However, increased hydraulic losses offset efficiency gains at higher flow rates. While the findings provide valuable insights for optimizing the design of counter-rotating systems in mixed-flow pumps, experimental validation is needed to confirm the results and ensure real-world applicability. The study lays the groundwork for future work in refining counter-rotating pump designs to minimize hydraulic losses and slippage.