Engineering Paper ITT Flygt AB

Number 02001
Revison 2
Sign AEin
Dept WA
Date 2003-01-27
Page: 1 (3)

Contents
GENERAL ......................................... 2
DESCRIPTION OF THE TESTS ....... 2
TEST PRINCIPLES............................ 2
Closed system ............................... 3
Motor speed control ..................... 3
Inlet restriction ............................. 3
Determination of NPSHR for
submersible pumps
Abstract: The paper describes the methods used
for the tests that are used to determine the
NPSHR curve. The test procedure is based devel-
oped by Flygt and is based on ISO9906, ISO2548,
DIN1944 and ANSI/HI 1.6-1994.

Three methods are used depending on the prod-

ucts being tested: With a closed system, by alter-
nating the rotating frequency and with an inlet
restriction. The paper is based on the instruction
FP-98115.

Key words: NPSH, Performance test, ISO 9906

 Engineering Paper ITT Flygt AB
Determination of NPSHR for submersible pumps
Page: 2 (3)

General
The NPSHR (Net Positive Suction Head Required) is the recommended
minimum inlet pressure for the pump to avoid disturbances caused by cavi-
tational effects. NPSHR is expressed as absolute pressure, i.e. it is always a
positive figure. Cavitation occurs if the static pressure in the pumped fluid
in any point is below the evaporation pressure of the fluid. The small va-
pour bubbles formed at this point will disturb the flow and decrease the
performance of the pump. When the bubbles implode, they will cause noise
and vibrations and can also deteriorate internal surfaces of the pump.

The results of a NPSHR-test are shown in a graph NPSHR, where net

inlet pressure (total static pressure minus evaporation pressure) is plotted
against the flow.

Description of the tests

The test procedure developed by Flygt is based upon official standards
ISO9906, ISO2548, DIN1944 and ANSI/HI 1.6-1994, describing how
performance (including NPSHR) are to be guaranteed and measured.

The NPSHR test procedure include 3 different methods to match different

systems and products:

Closed system: A closed loop system where the system pressure can
be controlled. Feasible for small centrifugal and propeller pumps.

Motor speed control: An open system where pump speed can be

controlled. Feasible for larger pumps, especially propeller pumps.

Inlet restriction: An open system where inlet pressure can be con-

trolled. Feasible for small and midsize pumps.

All test methods are strictly described regarding details in equipment set up
and preparations. The test fluid (water) is deaerated and the atmospheric
pressure measured.

Test principles
For all test methods the aim is to run the pump at a specified duty point and
decrease the inlet pressure until the pump performance is affected by cavi-
tation. The inlet pressure is decreased gradually and data regarding flow,
pressure, pump power, water temperature and inlet pressure are collected at
each step. The data obtained are plotted against inlet pressure, NPSHavailable,
to form pressure drop graphs valid for this specific duty point. The proce-
dure is then repeated for a necessary number of duty points to get a set of
pressure drop graphs covering the actual performance interval.
 Engineering Paper ITT Flygt AB
Determination of NPSHR for submersible pumps
Page: 3 (3)

From those graphs, an evaluation of NPSHR is made at every investigated

duty point. Those values are then presented in the pump performance chart
as an NPSHR graph.

Depending on size and type of pump different test methods must be applied
to allow for change of duty points and operational parameters. Subse-
quently there will be different methods for evaluation and calculation of
obtained data.

Closed system
The overall system pressure can be controlled. When the settings for a
specified duty point are found, the overall pressure is decreased. The inlet
pressure will decrease simultaneously. The pressure is decreased gradually
until pump performance is distinctly affected. Test data and calculations are
collected and performed as described above.

Motor speed control

For large pumps, especially propeller pumps, the most feasible way of
changing operational parameters during the test are by changing the revo-
lution speed. When the pump is working at specified duty point, the fre-
quency of the current supply is increased stepwise to increase the flow.
Typical changes are in steps of approx. 2 Hz. The pump speed is increased
until pump performance is distinctly affected. Flow, pressure and power
consumption is then recalculated to specified (nominal) frequency by means
of the affinity laws. Test data and calculations are collected and performed
as described above.

Inlet restriction
The inlet restriction method is mainly used for small and midrange pumps
where an inlet pipe connection is available. The test stand is an open system
where the flow is controlled by valves. When the settings for a specified
duty point are found, the inlet pressure is decreased by a restriction in the
inlet tube. The pressure is decreased gradually until pump performance is
distinctly affected. Test data and calculations are collected and performed as
described above.