Multiscale wear mechanisms of centrifugal pumps under high-sediment conditions: particle size-concentration coupling effects in Southern Xinjiang irrigation systems
Abstract
ABSTRACT To address the severe performance degradation (head reduction ≤43%) and shortened service life of centrifugal pumps caused by high-concentration fine-sand water in Southern Xinjiang irrigation districts, this study establishes a multiphase flow-wear coupling analysis framework. Using experimentally validated realizable k-ε modeling, we investigate flow patterns and wear mechanisms under both clear and sediment-laden conditions (15%/16.5% concentration, 0.06–0.40 mm particles). Under clear water, 0.95Q ensures optimal pressure-streamline synergy, whereas 0.75Q induces vortex breakdown with TKE surges, and 1.15Q accelerates efficiency decay. At 15% sediment concentration, 0.15–0.25 mm particles achieve hydraulic compatibility. Increasing to 16.5%, fine sand (
Fields of Study & Subjects
Hydrology and Sediment Transport Processes
Particle Dynamics in Fluid Flows
Erosion and Abrasive Machining
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Water Practice & Technology
- Publisher
- IWA Publishing
- Volume
- 21
- Issue
- 1
- Pages
- 145–168
- Publication date
- 1 January 2026
- Language
- EN