Numerical Prediction of Performance of Annular-Type Jet Pump

Abstract

Jet pumps are used in a great number of engineering applications. However, no numerical method for determining the performance has been established yet. In the present study, focusing on turbulence models, a numerical method for predicting the performance of an annular-type jet pump is investigated. The flow fields are simulated by solving Reynolds and continuity equations with standard k-ε and Reynolds stress turbulence models at different Reynolds numbers. Performance parameters (i. e. flow ratio, head ratio, and efficiency) are computed using the calculated flow fields, and compared with the corresponding experimental data. It is shown that a recirculation in the mixing chamber is formed at relatively low Reynolds number, and that a standard k-ε model always underestimates the head ratio and the efficiency because of the overestimation of turbulent mixing, whereas a Reynolds stress model can satisfactorily predict them.