Centrifugal, Mixed Flow, Axial Flow and Vortex Pump Test Method GB/T3216-89
Intro
This article outlines the test methods for centrifugal, mixed flow, axial flow and vortex pumps according to GB/T3216-89. The objective of the test is to measure the performance characteristics of the tested pump to predict its performance when in wide use in the industry or domestic water supply or heating systems. The test should be conducted in accordance to the guidelines given by GB/T3216-89.
Centrifugal Pump Test Method
1. Condition for Test.
The centrifugal pump test should be conducted using a waterproof tank with a vertically reinforced pump base, in order to measure the performance of the pump. As they are designed to handle liquid, the pump test should ideally be conducted in the presence of 20-40 °C liquid. Additionally, the pump should be aligned to the tank, as any misalignment can affect the performance of the pump.
2. Test Procedure
The test procedure should begin with the selection of an appropriate water supply pressure and adjusting the pump so that the changes in pressure can be accurately measured. The readings should then be taken and recorded. The pump should then be checked for cavitation, and the maximum pressure allowed for the specific model should be recorded in the form of max critical capacity. The maximum shut-off head should then be measured.
The following procedures should be taken for the final results of the test:
a) Increase the pressure testing appropriately and take readings of the pressure developed
b) Increase the capacity and take readings of the input power and total efficiency of the pump
c) Intake and discharge sides of the impeller should be examined for any cavitation marks
d) Take readings of the net positive suddtion (NPSH) head, which is the head at which a pump starts to cavitate
e) Measure the vibrational amplitude at the head and use this to calculate the pumps unsteady total and static performance.
3. Analysis of Results
The following results should be analysed against the manufacturers specified data before any conclusions are made:
a) Input power and the efficiency of the pump
b) Head-capacity curve for the pump
c) Cavity head and total suction heads
d) Maximum suction and discharge pressures
e) Net Positive Suction Head (NPSH)
f) Unsteady performance and vibrational amplitude
Conclusion
This article outlines the test methods for centrifugal, mixed flow, axial flow and vortex pumps according to GB/T3216-89. The test should be carried out in strict accordance with the guidelines specified in the standard. The tests should give detailed results which will be compared against the manufacturers published data in order to calculate the performance and efficiency of the pump.
