Numerical analysis on the cavitation and unsteady flow in a scroll hydraulic pump

This paper presents numerical analysis of unsteady flow in a scroll hydraulic pump to discover its flow mechanism. The dynamic mesh model has to be used to simulate the flow field unsteadily. The unsteady flow patterns and pressure distributions in the suction, squeezing and discharge chamber are analysed. The suction process continues until the crank angle reaches the 320 degree. Then the pressure in the chamber rises instantaneously, and the fluid begins to flow out from the chamber. Because of the high pressure difference at the clearance, the jet flow and the vortex appear, and the large flow losses generates with them. In addition, the velocity and static pressure distribution in the two symmetry crescent suction chamber is different remarkably. One reason is that the location of suction port cannot be set symmetrically for the simplification of the pump structure. Another reason for that is the fluid is impelled by different part of the orbiting scroll. The asymmetric pressure distribution will result in the extra force on the scroll. The cavitation generates at the negative pressure region. Therefore, the unsteady simulation shows some important phenomena. The structure of the scroll pump need to be optimized to reduce the maximum pressure, weaken the jet flow, vortex and the uneven pressure distribution to ensure the pump working safely and efficiently.