Prediction of the pumping capacity for reverse-flow diverter pumps

Reverse-flow diverter pumps have no moving parts that are in direct contact with the fluid; as a result, they are applicable for the transport of hazardous liquids or liquid-solid mixtures. To date, there is no method available for predicting the pumping capacity of reverse-flow diverter pumps. In this study, we experimentally investigated the pumping performance of reverse-flow diverters in the reverse-flow mode. Two dimensionless performance equations, expressed as q = 0.9597exp(-Eu-r/0.9237) + 0.4946exp(-Eu-r/7.360) + 0.1765 and q = k alpha + I, were determined from the experimental data. Based on these two equations, a method for predicting the pumping capacity of reverse-flow diverter pumps was proposed. (C) 2013 The Institution of Chemical Engineers. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.