Flow performances of a low noise three-screw pump at different pressures

Due to the lack of research on flow domain characteristics of three-screw pump, computational fluid dynamics can be used to analyze internal flow field changes under different pressures. Using SCORG and PumpLinx software, a simulation model was established to study the flow performance of a low noise three-screw pump under varying pressures, overcoming drawbacks of most studies relying on ANSYS. The innovation of this study mainly focuses on the real three-screw pump and putting forward optimization suggestions, including structure and reliability. We explored the influence of ∆p (the difference between outlet and inlet pressure) on flow velocity, flow rate, and fluid pressure. Simulation results indicate that ∆p slightly affects the flow velocity and flow rate. The elbow near the outlet has an obvious obstructive effect on the flow, and optimizing it may improve the pump’s performance. In the majority of positions within seal cavities, the oil velocity is in excess of 3 m/s, with fluid velocity at the discharge cavity reaching up to 10 m/s. The seal cavities are more prone to pressure shocks, which may lead to bearing failure.