Flow field determination at axial pump impeller tip section

In most applications the principal limitation on the performance of an axial-flow pump is its cavitation-free operating range, characterized by the nett positive suction head (NPSH). The adverse effects of cavitation are not restricted to impaired performance; noise and vibration levels tend to increase and mechanical integrity of components can be jeopardised, sometimes severely. Cavitation may occur in the inlet region or, in some instances, in the stator blades; however the most usual source of cavitation occurrence is the impeller blading, specifically the tip section