Effect of injector on flow characteristic and hydraulic performance in aero-fuel centrifugal pump

• Published in: Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers. Part G, Journal of aerospace engineering Journal of aerospace engineering, 2024-10, Vol.238 (13), p.1311-1325
• Main Authors: Li, Jia, Liu, Bo, Zhou, Wen, Xie, Jian, Chen, Xuan
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Aircraft engines; Aircraft performance; Centrifugal pumps; Flow characteristics; Fuel systems; Hydraulics; Impellers; Injectors; Inlet flow; Inlet pressure; Numerical analysis; Suction; Volutes
• ISSN: 0954-4100; 2041-3025
• DOI: 10.1177/09544100241263024

In the fuel system of an aircraft engine, aero-fuel centrifugal pumps are widely utilized as boost pumps. In this research, we propose the integration of an inlet injector with an aero-fuel centrifugal pump to optimize its flow characteristics and enhance performance. The key geometric parameters of the impeller, volute, and injector are meticulously designed. The effectiveness of our approach is validated through a combination of experimental and numerical analysis, which involves comparing simulation results with experimental data. The findings demonstrate that the presence of the injector significantly impacts the flow characteristics and hydraulic performance of the pump. Specifically, it effectively reduces flow losses in the specific channels of the impeller and volute. Furthermore, the injector enhances the regulation of the inlet flow fields by adjusting the inlet pressure and controlling the suction flow direction. Consequently, the pump’s efficiency is enhanced when equipped with the injector compared to its performance without it. Therefore, incorporating an injector in an aero-fuel centrifugal pump has a positive effect on regulating flow characteristics and improving hydraulic efficiency.