A Study on NPSHr Reduction and Suction Performance Enhancement of a Deep Well Pump through Inducer Shape Optimization

This study aims to enhance the suction performance of a deep well pump composed of an inducer, impeller, and diffuser by elucidating the flow mechanism generated by the inducer and suggesting directions for inducer shape optimization. The inducer is known to be a key element that raises static pressure at the pump inlet, thereby reducing cavitation and lowering the required net positive suction head (NPSHr). In this work, the operating mechanism by which the inducer increases static pressure, suppresses cavitation, and decreases NPSHr was quantitatively identified. The parameters of leading and trailing blade angles and pitch are optimized to reduce NPSHr while increasing efficiency. Operating environments with large differences in fluid properties, such as cryogenic and ambient conditions, are also considered. The effects of inducer shape changes on flow structure, pressure distribution, and loss characteristics will be analyzed so that the results can be applied directly to real design and operation stages.