Computational Fluid Dynamic (CFD) is used to model fluid flows. These can be highly viscous fluids like slurries through to low viscosity fluids such as air.
In this study Deacon Engineers looked at a Pump Inlet Manifold Design at an irrigation facility to address some of the challenges they faced. One of the main factors was the increased water supply demands. Increased demand, led to a situation where a series of larger pumps were set up with inadequate inlet conditions. This was due to the space constraints within an existing pump house. The space restrictions resulted in the inlet pipes simply being a series of eccentric reducers, after the valves, and immediately off the supply line. Additionally sharp corners existed at the connection of the pump approaches with the main supply line. The study suggested the formation of vortices downstream of these locations.
To confirm the inadequacy of the design, a Computational Fluid Dynamic (CFD) study was performed on the inlet portion of the system.
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Journal-Vol1-No2.pdf
