Parametric analysis of centrifugal pumps for heavy end recovery using response surface methodology

A radial split axial pull-out barrel casing multistage centrifugal pump of BB5 class for heavy end recovery in a natural gas-to-liquid plant was evaluated in this study to determine its optimal operational parameters. A meta-heuristic approach to multi-parametric systems analysis was adopted in this investigation. This is a central composite circumscribed blocked single replicate response surface design with desirability function analysis. The experimental plan involved thirty-two factorial points, ten centre points and twelve axial points. Results revealed 417, 366, 70, 39°, 36 and 64 as the optimal settings of the pumps impeller discharge diameter, suction pipe diameter, impeller blade length, blade discharge angle, impeller radial tip clearance and blade discharge width respectively. The pump operated at an efficiency, flow rate, head and speed of 78.30%, 191.553ℎ⁄, 967.50 and 2505p respective with these optimal factor settings. Also this yields 1.2% saving in energy consumption of the pump.Keywords: Centrifugal pump, heavy end recovery, natural gas, gas-to-liquid pl