DDPM investigation on centrifugal slurry pump with inlet and sideline configuration retrofit

The inlet and sideline configuration modifications are widely investigated to alter regional particle fluid flow conditions, considering pressure, turbulence and erosion, therefore to improve energy saving and compartment longevity of centrifugal slurry pump. This paper aims to analyse pump hydraulic and erosion characteristics with proposed pump sideline and inlet configuration retrofit by the DDPM method. Specifically, the inlet guide vane number () and angle (), and sidelining vane (SDV) curvature are investigated in quantitative manner. Accordingly, by adjusting inlet vane configuration and placement, a trade-off between wall erosion and hydraulic performance is observed. The sidelining vane (SDV) design is suggested to avoid resultant counter-current flow formulation, therefore, to mitigate turbulence induced erosion in impeller and volute. However, the SDV modification effect on pump hydraulic head and efficiency is found marginal. In general, this study offers realistic guideline for performance improvement and device upgrading of centrifugal slurry pumps. • Designated pump configuration effectiveness is justified with particle fluid flow dynamic and erosion condition. • The inlet guide vane number ( N v ) and angle ( β ) are analysed in quantitative manner. • The sidelining vane ( SDV ) modification presents trade-off on performance improvement and erosion mitigation. • The proposed inlet and sideline flow condition impacts volute erosion characteristics greatly.