A Numerical Model for the Prediction of Performance Parameters and Hydraulic Losses in Centrifugal Pump Systems such as Turbine

The prediction of the energy performance of centrifugal pump systems such as turbines is one of the main needs to evaluate the viability of projects focused on energy recovery in high pressure flows rate. Due to the above, in this investigation, the construction of a numerical model has been carried out for the prediction of the performance parameters in pump systems such as turbines under different operating conditions. The analysis of the performance parameters includes the head, the generated power, and the efficiency. Additionally, the numerical model developed takes into consideration the hydraulic losses present in the impeller, the inlet pipe, and the pump volute. From the results obtained, it has been demonstrated that the proposed numerical model has the ability to predict the performance parameters of the pump as a turbine. It has been possible to obtain an average relative error of 2.82% and 3.52% in the prediction of the head and the efficiency of the PAT system. The analysis of the efficiency of the pump as a turbine has showed that this type of system could reach an efficiency of 84.7%. It has been evidenced that the rotation speed reduction causes a greater restriction in the efficient operating areas of the PAT system. In general, the proposed numerical model is an alternative tool to evaluate the behavior of centrifugal pumps as a turbine under different operating conditions.