Evaluation of turbulence models for predicting the performance of an axial-flow pump

To evaluate predictive capability of a turbulence model for performances of an axial-flow pump, the standard κ-ε model, RNG κ-ε model, SST model and filter-based model (FBM) are used to simulate the flows in an axial-flow pump respectively. Based on computations, the head, torque and efficiency of the axial-flow pump are predicted. To help shed light on the justification of these models, the numerical results are compared with experimental results. Distributions of pressure and velocity within the axial-flow pump are analyzed. Although all four models give satisfactory predictions in the optimal operating condition, a good agreement between numerical predictions and experimental date at off-design conditions is only obtained by using FBM model.