Journal of Computational Applied Mechanics

Parametric Blade Generator Incorporating Bézier Surface Principles and Casing Geometry for Optimal Industrial Centrifugal Slurry Pump Design

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 School of Mechatronics, Simon Fraser University, Surrey Canada

2 Hevvy/Toyo Pumps North America Corporation, Coquitlam Canada

Abstract

Modern pump and turbomachinery design merges innovative methodologies with computational tools for optimal efficiency and adaptability. This study delves into the intricate design of a parametric blade generator using Bézier curves, renowned for their precision in sculpting smooth, user-defined curves, and offering vast prospects in turbomachinery blade design. Leveraging this precision, our methodology employed eight pivotal anchor points to shape the Bézier surface blade: three at the base, three at the top, and two strategically placed midpoints. These midpoints enhance curvature control, ensuring the blade's form encapsulates the desired aerodynamic and fluid flow properties. Using these eight defined points and four bounding curves, the blade's holistic spatial profile was meticulously drafted. The CAD modeling system, with its advanced loft and guide curve functions, was instrumental in generating the blade surface, resulting in an aerodynamically adept profile optimized for maximum flow efficiency. Beyond the blade, the pump casing geometry was another pivotal focus. Adopting a parametric shape generation for the casing ensured system-wide design coherence, minimizing potential operational bottlenecks and inefficiencies. Classical optimization and iterative refinements were applied to the initial design, with each step analyzed to ensure the final model achieved high performance. Traditional blade design methodologies often offer limited flexibility, confining designers to specific templates and forms. However, this methodology provided greater design flexibility and set a new benchmark in performance optimization. As industries continually evolve and demand more from turbomachinery, the methodologies presented herein will be at the forefront, guiding us into an era of enhanced efficiency, adaptability, and innovation.

Keywords

Main Subjects

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Journal of Computational Applied Mechanics
Volume 55, Issue 4
October 2024
Pages 698-710
  • Receive Date: 20 April 2024
  • Revise Date: 01 July 2024
  • Accept Date: 06 July 2024