Influence of T-shape tip clearance on performance of a mixed-flow pump

Influence of original and T-shape blade end on performance of a mixed-flow pump is investigated by using experimental measurement and numerical simulation. The new proposed T-shape blade end is formed at 95%–100% blade height with a linear increase of blade thickness. In comparison with original blade end, the efficiency of pump with T-shape blade end increases by 1.86%, and the leakage flow decreases by 15.95%. Space streamlines across the blade tip clearance can be divided into three beams with different movement trajectories, and the swirl motions of streamlines directly correspond to the swirling strength. The highest amplitude of pressure fluctuation appears at the blade leading edge along the tip clearance. In comparison with original blade end, the highest amplitude of pressure fluctuation for T-shape blade end decreases by 27.45%. The dominant frequencies of the pressure fluctuations in tip clearance region for original blade end and T-shape blade end are both five times of the axis rotation frequency, corresponding to the impeller blade number of five.