A Multi-Stage Slotted Blade Axial Flow Pump

Abstract

A multi-stage axial flow pump offers the possibility of savings in space and weight and permits a compact arrangement. The use of slotted blades results in a high pressure rise per stage, thus reducing the necessary number of stages. Analysis of a single-stage pump, with regard to many potential effects of cavitation and flow analysis of the liquid passing through the slot, was made. The same unit was also analyzed with regard to performance both in water and air at respectively lower Reynolds numbers. Subsequently, a nine-stage pump was designed, built, and tested. In this arrangement an evaluation of blade numbers in both stators and impeller was analyzed. The test data showed an unusual phenomenon of increased pressure coefficient as compared with single-stage data.