The results of a detailed measurement campaign on the effect of modifications to the pump compartment on spatial velocity profiles in vertically submersible pumps

A detailed measurement campaign is performed in which the effect is determined of modifications to the pump compartment on the velocity profile in the suction pipe of a vertically submersible pump. These measurements are performed in a scale model of a simple pumping station of which the dimensions are equal to the ANSI/HI 9.8-2012 guidelines (HIS standard). A set of generally accepted modifications like splitters, fillings, curtain walls and baffles has been tested. The investigation showed that the acceptability of a velocity profile is not significantly influenced by these modifications (if well-designed). Some modifications have a local effect on the velocity profile. However, the locations with the largest spatial deviation, which determine the acceptability of the velocity profile, are not affected. Therefore, the statement in the HIS standard that small modifications to the pump compartment improve the velocity profile seems to be not generically valid