Frictional Loss Studies and Experimental Performance of a New Synchronal Rotary Multiphase Pump

A new synchronal rotary multiphase pump (SRMP) is presented, which is geometrically simple and easy to manufacture. With the rotary cylinder, the frictional losses between the major components of the SRMP are minimized. Its structural design and working principles are introduced. The mathematic models of the frictional losses at various friction-couplings are formulated. Calculations on the frictional losses and mechanical efficiency are performed for a SRMP prototype, too. Experimental works on the prototype in which crude oil is used as working fluids are conducted to validate the functionality of the SRMP and the established models. The calculated results show that the frictional losses in the SRMP are mainly produced by the friction from bearings and seals. The frictional losses caused by the other part of components occupy less than 13% of the total frictional losses. In addition, the theoretical analyses of the various shaft speeds and basic geometrical parameters reveal that the cylinder rotary inertia exercises a negative effect on the friction at the sliding vane sides. Lower shaft speed and smaller eccentricity-cylinder radius ratio are helpful to reduce this effect. In the experiment, the SRMP is operated at shaft speeds of 400, 600 and 800 rpm respectively. The pressure differences are arranged within 0–2.4MPa. The measured values of the shaft consumption powers are shown to be in good agreement with the calculations. These results confirm that the SRMP is suitable for multiphase transportation and has a higher mechanical efficiency.