Optimization of a single-channel pump impeller for wastewater treatment

As a single-channel pump is used for wastewater treatment, this particular pump type can prevent performance reduction or damage caused by foreign substances. However, the design methods for single-channel pumps are different and more difficult than those for general pumps. In this study, a design optimization method to improve the hydrodynamic performance of a single-channel pump impeller is implemented. Numerical analysis was carried out by solving three-dimensional steady-state incompressible Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes equations using the shear stress transport turbulence model. As a state-of-the-art impeller design method, two design variables related to controlling the internal cross-sectional flow area of a single-channel pump impeller were selected for optimization. Efficiency was used as the objective function and was numerically assessed at twelve design points selected by Latin hypercube sampling in the design space. An optimization process based on a radial basis neural network model was conducted systematically, and the performance of the optimum model was finally evaluated through an experimental test. Consequently, the optimum model showed improved performance compared with the base model, and the unstable flow components previously observed in the base model were suppressed remarkably well. © 2016, Turbomachinery Society of Japan. All rights reserved.