Parameter optimization and performance simulation evaluation of new swash plate-plunger energy recovery device

The swash plate-plunger energy recovery device (SP-ERD), as a novel isobaric ERD, is innovatively developed based on the structural characteristics and working mode of the swash plate axial plunger pump. The hollow plunger with side windows and closed upper and lower ends is the main place for pressure exchange, which can realize rapid reciprocating switching of working positions through the rotation of the swash plate. The unique symmetrical impingement inflow mode of SP-ERD makes the fluid flow in plunger hollow cavity close to the plug flow, which can reduce volumetric mixing and improve volume utilization. The mixing characteristic of SP-ERD is optimized by changing the height (H) and diameter (d) of the plunger hollow cavity. The volumetric mixing decreases first and then increases with the increase of H, and increases as d increases. Additionally, the efficiency of SP-ERD increases as the plunger clearance (h) decreases or d increases. When h, H and d are 0.011 mm, 170 mm and 28 mm, the volumetric mixing and volume utilization of SP-ERD under the design conditions (20 m3/h and 6.0 MPa) are 0.91% and 90.3%, which are superior compared with commercial products, and its efficiency is 96.4%, which is also competitive. © 2022 Elsevier B.V.