Flow and wear evolution in a centrifugal pump with fine-sand-laden water in Southern Xinjiang irrigation areas

ABSTRACT Research methodology flowchart illustrating the four-stage approach: pump model building, CFD Fluent simulation, experimental wear testing with SEM microanalysis, and conclusion synthesis identifying wear thresholds and operational optimization strategies. The diagram includes pump geometry renderings, velocity contour visualizations, and experimental apparatus photographs. This study investigates flow characteristics and wear evolution in centrifugal pumps handling fine-sand-laden water via numerical simulations and experiments. Using a validated Realizable model, five rotational speeds (2030-3480 r/min) for clear water and five sediment concentrations (6%-20%) were analyzed. Results demonstrate that 2900 r/min achieves optimal flow stability with minimal turbulence kinetic energy (TKE), while exceeding 3190 r/min induces flow separation. A critical sediment concentration of 14% was identified: below this threshold, flow fields remain orderly; above it, particle enrichment on blade pressure surfaces amplifies localized TKE and causes severe velocity fragmentation. Experimental wear tests and SEM analysis confirmed cutting wear and dimple-lip deformations at inlets/outlets, aligning with numerical predictions. Maintaining operation at 2900 r/min with concentrations ≤14% minimizes wear. It is recommended to optimize speed, control inlet sediment below 14%, and reinforce critical wear areas.