DEVELOPMENT OF A MULTI-PUMP TEST RIG

Undergraduate thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the

degree of Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the Mariano Marcos
State University, City of Batac, Ilocos Norte. Prepared under the guidance of Engr.
Ian V. Romas.

RENZ JOSHUA L. TABAY

JARON OLIVER G. INGAN
MARC DANIELLE G. JOSUE
IVAN NIÑO S.BALOALOA

INTRODUCTION

Background of the Study

Pumps are used throughout society for a variety of purposes. Early application

includes the use of the windmill or watermill to pump water. Today, the pump is used

for irrigation, water supply, gasoline supply, air conditioning systems, refrigeration

(usually called a compressor), chemical movement, sewage movement, flood control,

marine services, industrial etc. Because of the wide variety of applications, pumps

have a plethora of shapes and sizes: from very large to very small, from handling gas

to handling liquid, from high pressure to low pressure, and from high volume to low

volume.

Pumps are generally grouped into two broad categories positive displacement

pumps and dynamic pumps. Positive displacement pumps use a mechanical means to

carry the size of the fluid chamber to cause the fluid to flow. On the other hand,

Dynamic pumps impart momentum to the fluid by rotating impellers that are
immersed in the fluid. The momentum produces an increase pressure or flow at the

pump outlet. A pump is one of the main apparatus used by all industries completely

around the world. As a result, this equipment is a necessary study and must have a

higher understanding. Therefore, one method of understanding this material is to have

an actual experiment.

This multi-pump test rig is a piece of apparatus, or perhaps a system involving

several pieces of equipment working together, specifically designed for the purpose of

testing characteristics of pumps.

Objectives of the Study

General Objective:

In this study, the researchers was develop a multi-pump test rig that was test

pump properties. The multi-pump test rig was serve as an experiment apparatus to the

future students of the Department of the Mechanical Engineering in Mariano Marcos

State University

Specific Objective:

1. To construct a multi-pump test rig

2. To evaluate the performance of the multi-pump test rig by testing

-Two 1 Horsepower water pump in Series & Parallel connection.

3. To formulate exercises that can be performed in the multi-pump test rig.

 Conceptual Framework of the Study

This study attempts 1.) To develop a multi-pump test rig that would test pump

properties on series or parallel connection 2.) To construct a test rig that composes of

pumps, pressure gauges, valves, fittings, frame and a measuring tank would be input

of the study. The efficiency, capacity, total dynamic head and water power of the

pump will be the expected output in assembly and evaluation of the multi-pump test

rig.
.

Input Process
1. Development of 1. Fabrication of the
Output
Multi-Pump Test Rig. Multi-Pump Test Rig. 1. Evaluation of the
- jet pump 1hp Multi-Pump Test Rig.
- pipelines 2. Assembly of the 2. Hydrotesting.
- circulation tank Multi-Pump Test Rig . 3. Total Dynamic
2. Selection of Head.
measuring devices to 3. Formulation of 4. Operation manual
be used: experiment in the 5. Laboratory
-pressure gauge Multi-Pump Test Rig. exercises.
-water meter

Figure 1. Conceptual Framework of the Multi-Pump Test Rig.

 Significance of the Study

The lack of multi-pump test rig in the Mechanical Engineering Laboratory

encourages the researchers to conduct this study. The research output will serve as

additional laboratory apparatus for the future students to actually relate the theories

and lectures through their hands on experiments. This will make them recognize more

about pump characteristics which they will use in their future subjects in ME. Also,

having a multi-pump test rig model will inspire the students to conduct continuation

study along with this with research work. Hence, this study will be useful to BSME

students.

Scope and Limitations of the Study

The study will focus on the development of a multi-pump test rig. The multi-

pump test rig will consist of two 1HP centrifugal water pump and will be tested in

series and parallel connection one at a time. The materials to be used in this study will

be acquired locally by the researchers. The construction, assembly and evaluation of

the multi-pump test rig will be done on the Mechanical Engineering laboratory in

Mariano Marcos State University.

 REVIEW RELATED OF LITERATETURES

Pumps

A pump is a device that moves fluids (liquids or gases), or sometimes slurries,

by mechanical action. Pumps can be classified into three major groups according to

the method they use to move the fluid: direct lift, displacement, and gravity pumps.

Pumps operate by some mechanism (typically reciprocating or rotary), and

consume energy to perform mechanical work moving the fluid. Pumps operate via

many energy sources, including manual operation, electricity, engines, or wind power,

come in many sizes, from microscopic for use in medical applications to large

industrial pumps.

Mechanical pumps serve in a wide range of applications such as pumping

water from wells, aquarium filtering, pond filtering and aeration, in the car industry

for water-cooling and fuel injection, in the energy industry for pumping oil and

natural gas or for operating cooling towers. In the medical industry, pumps are used

for biochemical processes in developing and manufacturing medicine, and as artificial

replacements for body parts, in particular the artificial heart and penile prosthesis.

When a casing contains only one revolving impeller, it is called a single-stage

pump. When a casing contains two or more revolving impellers, it is called a double-

or multi-stage pump. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pump)

 Centrifugal Pumps

A centrifugal pump is a mechanical device designed to move a fluid by means

of the transfer of rotational energy from one or more driven rotors, called impellers. 

Fluid enters the rapidly rotating impeller along its axis and is cast out by centrifugal

force along its circumference through the impeller’s vane tips.  The action of the

impeller increases the fluid’s velocity and pressure and also directs it towards the

pump outlet.  The pump casing is specially designed to constrict the fluid from the

pump inlet, direct it into the impeller and then slow and control the Fluid before

discharge (https://www.michael-smith-engineers.co.uk/resources/useful-

info/centrifugal-pumps)

Jet Pumps

Jet pumps create suction in a rather novel way. The pump is powered by an

electric motor that drives an impeller, or centrifugal pump. The impeller moves water,

called drive water, from the well through a narrow orifice, or jet, mounted in the

housing in front of the impeller. This constriction at the jet causes the speed of the

moving water to increase, much like the nozzle on a garden hose. As the water leaves

the jet, a partial vacuum is created that sucks additional water from the well. Directly

behind the jet is a Venturi tube that increases in diameter. Its function is to slow down

the water and increase the pressure. The pumped water–new water that's drawn from

the well by the suction at the jet–then combines with the drive water to discharge into

the plumbing system at high pressure.

 Because shallow-well jet pumps use water to draw water, they generally need

to be primed–filled with water–before they'll work. To keep water in the pump and

plumbing system from flowing back down into the well, a 1-way check valve is

installed in the feed line to the pump.

Series Operation

Centrifugal pumps are connected in series if the discharge of one pump is

connected to the suction side of a second pump. Two similar pumps, in series, operate

in the same manner as a two-stage centrifugal pump.

Each of the pumps is putting energy into the pumping fluid, so the resultant

head is the sum of the individual heads. (http://www.mcnallyinstitute.com/18-

html/18-1.htm)

Some things to consider when you connect pumps in series:

 Both pumps must have the same width impeller or the difference in capacities

(GPM or Cubic meters/hour.) could cause a cavitation problem if the first

pump cannot supply enough liquid to the second pump.

 Both pumps must run at the same speed (same reason).

Be sure the casing of the second pump is strong enough to resist the higher pressure.

Higher strength material, ribbing, or extra bolting may be required.

 The stuffing box of the second pump will see the discharge pressure of the

first pump. You may need a high-pressure mechanical seal.

  Be sure both pumps are filled with liquid during start-up and operation.

 Start the second pump after the first pump is running.

Figure 2. Pump in series connection

Parallel Operation

Pumps are operated in parallel when two or more pumps are connected to a

common discharge line, and share the same suction conditions.

Some things to consider when pumps are operated in parallel:

 Both pumps must produce the same head this usually means they must be

running at the same speed, with the same diameter impeller.

 API 610, states that when pumps are run in parallel, “the head shall rise at

least 10% of the head at rated capacity”. (this is called a “stable curve because

there is a continuous rise to shutoff.)

 Two pumps in parallel will deliver less than twice the flow rate of a single

pump in the system because of the increased friction in the piping.

  The shape of the system curve determines the actual increase in capacity. If

there is additional friction in the system from throttling (see dotted line in the

following diagram), two pumps in parallel may deliver only slightly more than

a single pump operating by its self.

 If you run a single pump only, it will operate at a higher flow rate (A) than if it

were working in parallel with another pump (B) because it will be operating

further out on the curve requiring increased power. The rule is that if a pump

is selected to run in parallel, be sure it has a driver rated for single operation.

(http://www.mcnallyinstitute.com/18-html/18-1.htm)

Figure 3. Pump in parallel connection

Pump Testing

A pump test is a procedure carried out by a pump manufacturer, supplier,

installer, or owner to confirm one or more aspects of pump design or performance.

Pump tests are conducted to confirm that the pump meets the performance, design,

and construction standards required by the project specifications and data sheets. The

most common types of pump tests include:

  Pump performance tests: A performance test is used to determine that the head

and flow produced by a pump as well as the power required to operate a pump

match the project requirements.

 Hydrostatic pressure tests: A hydrostatic pressure test, or hydro test, involves

putting the pump casing under pressure that is considerably greater than the

actual operating pressure to ensure that the casing is strong enough to

withstand operating pressures.

 Field tests: Most field tests are simple procedures used to demonstrate that the

pump operates without excessive vibration and noise or high bearing

temperatures as installed in the field.

Viscous flows in pipes

Our intension here is generalized the one-dimensional Bernoulli equation for

viscous flow. When the viscosity of the fluid is taken into account total energy head

v2 p
H= + + z is no longer constant along the pipe. In direction of flow, due to
2 g ρg

V 21 P1
friction cause by viscosity of the fluid we have + +z 2 so to restore the
2 g ρG 1>¿ 2Vg + ρG
P2 2
+z ¿ 2

equality we must add some scalar quantity to the right side of this inequality

V 21 P1
+ +z 2
2 g ρG 1=¿ V 2
+
P2
+ z2 ¿
2 g ρG
 This scalar quantity ∆ls is called as hydraulic loss. The hydraulic loss between

two different cross section along the pipe is equal to the difference of total energy for

this cross section:

∆ hls=H 1−H 2

We must remember that always H1 > H2. In horizontal pipe when z1 = z2 and

diameter of pipe is constant v1 = v2 hydraulic loss is equal to the head of pressure

drop or head loss.

P2 −P1
∆ hL=
ρg

DARCY WEISBACH EQUATION STATEMENT

It is an empirical equation in fluid mechanics named after Henry Darcy and

Julius Weisbach. The Darcy Weisbach Equation relates the loss of pressure or head

loss due to friction along the given length of pipe to the average velocity of the fluid

flow for an incompressible fluid.

The Darcy Weisbach Equation:

L v2
h f =f
D 2G

Where: h f = is the head loss or pressure loss

 f = is the coefficient of friction or friction factor

v = is the velocity of incompressible fluid

L = is the length of the pipe

D = is the diameter

G = is the acceleration due to gravity (g = 9.8m/s 2)

We must remember that Darcy - Weisbach equation is valid only for

horizontal pipes. In general, with v 1=v 2 but z 1 ≠ z 2 , The head loss is given

p 1−p 2 L v2
=(z 2−z 1)+f
ρg D 2g

Part of the pressure change is due to elevation change and part is due to head

loss associated with frictional effects, which are given in terms of the friction factor f

that depends on Reynolds number and relative roughness.

It is not easy to determine the functional dependence of the friction factor on

the Reynolds number and relative roughness ( ε /D). Much of this information is a

result of experiments conducted by J. Nikuradse in 1933 and amplified by many

others since then. One difficulty lies in the determination of the roughness of the pipe.

Nikuradse used artificially roughened pipes produced by gluing sand grains of known

size onto pipe walls to produce pipes with sandpaper-type surfaces. In commercially

available pipes the roughness is not as uniform and well defined as in the artificially

roughened pipes used by Nikuradse. However, it is possible to obtain a measure of the

effective relative roughness of typical pipes and thus to obtain the friction factor.

Figure (3)) shows the functional dependence of f on Re and and is called the Moody
chart in honor of L. F. Moody, who, along with C. F. Colebrook, correlated the

original data of Nikuradse in terms of the relative roughness of commercially

available pipe materials.

The Reynolds Experiment; Reynolds Number

Through the efforts of Reynolds, the limiting condition, defining the transition

from laminar to turbulent flow, as mentioned above, was determined. His experiment

on pipe flow, conducted in 1883, and the conclusion Reynolds derived from the

results are given as follows:

Figure 4. Reynolds Apparatus

A large glass tank (Figure 4) containing water with a glass tube had been

utilized in running the tests. The glass tube has a bell mouthed entrance and fitted

with a gate valve outside the tank, as shown. Through an injection, with a control

valve, colored fluid was released at the tube entrance. At the same time, with the

contained water free of any motion, the valve is opened slowly. As water flowed out,

it was observed that the colored fluid moved as a straight line, not mixing with the

surrounding water in the tube. As stated above, this flow type Reynolds termed as

laminar. As the valve opening was gradually increased, a flow velocity was attained
at which point the thread-like colored fluid started to breakup and finally mixed with

the surrounding water. The flow was called as turbulent. In addition, Reynolds

determined the transition zone for which the flow changed from laminar to turbulent

and vice versa, from turbulent to laminar. His findings showed that, starting from

turbulent flow a return to laminar flow always occurred at a smaller velocity than for

a change from laminar to turbulent. The velocities at these transition points are termed

as the lower and upper critical velocities, respectively.

However, the velocity alone is not the only factor in characterizing the type of

flow in pipes. A complete criterion was developed by Reynolds to include all fluids to

characterize the type of flow, that is, by a dimensionless parameter named after him,

the Reynolds Number, Re , given by the relation,

VDρ VD
Re = =
μ v

m
Where: V = is the mean flow velocity ( )
s

D = is the pipe diameter (m)

ρ = is the mass density (kg/m3)

µ = is the dynamic viscosity ( Pa−s ¿

v (=µ/ρ) = is the kinematic viscosity (m3/s)

NOTE: Under normal cases of flow and usual inner wall roughness, the Reynolds

Number, Re , has the following approximate values:

i. Re = 2,000, corresponding to the lower or true critical velocity

(Vennard, in his Fluid Mechanics text, suggests Re = 2,100);

 ii. Re = 3,000, corresponding to the upper critical velocity or the lower

limit for turbulent flow (Blasius characterized turbulent flow for

smooth pipes within the limit, 3,000 ≤ Re ≤ 100,000

Moody Chart

The following characteristics are observed from the data of (3). For laminar

flow, Re < 2300, f =64 /ℜ, which is independent of relative roughness. For very large

Reynolds numbers f =ϕ (ε / D) which is independent of the Reynolds number. For

such flows, commonly termed completely turbulent flow, along the wall pipe, exists

the laminar sub layer so thin that the surface roughness completely dominates the

character of the flow near the wall. The gap in the figure for which no values of f are

given, 2100< ℜ< 4000, is a result of the fact that the flow in this transition range may

be laminar or turbulent (or an unsteady mix of both) depending on the specific

circumstances involved.

Note: that even for smooth pipes the friction factor is not zero. That is, there is a head

loss in any pipe, no matter how smooth the surface is made. This is a result of

the no-slip boundary condition that requires any fluid to stick to any solid

surface it flows over. There is always some microscopic surface roughness that

produces the no-slip behaviour (and thusf /0) on the molecular level, even when

the roughness is considerably less than the viscous sublayer thickness. Such

pipes are called hydraulically smooth. Various investigators have attempted to

obtain an analytical expression forf =ϕ (ℜ, ε / D). Note that the Moody chart

covers an extremely wide range in flow parameters. The non-laminar region

covers more than four orders of magnitude in Reynolds number from

ℜ=4 · 103 ¿ ℜ=108. Obviously, for a given pipe and fluid, typical values of the
 average velocity do not cover this range. However, because of the large variety

in pipes D, fluids (ρ, and µ and velocities (v), such a wide range in Re is needed

to accommodate nearly all applications of pipe flow. Colebrook combined all

data for transition and turbulent flow in smooth as well as rough pipes into the

following relation known as COLEBROOK EQUATION

ε
1 D 2.51 ¿
=−2.0 log ( + )¿
√f 3.7 ℜ √ f

The COLEBROOK EQUATION is implicit inf , and determination of

friction factor requires tedious iteration. An approximate explicit relation for f is

given by S.E. Haaland in 1983 as

ε 1.11
1 6.9 D ¿
=−1.8 log ( ℜ +( ) )¿
√f 3.7

Figure 5. Friction factor as a function of Reynolds number and relative roughness for

round pipes -the Moody Chart

 For hydraulically smooth pipe the friction factor is approximated by Blasius

(1911) formula

f =¿

The next formula proposed by Aldsul (1952) gained some popularity in the

engineering application due to its simplicity:

f =0.11¿

It is clear that in order to use the Moody diagram we must be able to obtain

values of surface roughness. These have been measured and tabulated (and sometimes

plotted) for an extensive range of materials used in piping systems. Table.1 provides

some representative values. This table gives the different values of Є for the most

common types of pipe.

Table 1. Surface roughness values for various engineering materials

Kind of Pipe Є

(New) (mm)
Wrought Iron/Steel 0.046

Asphalted Cast Iron 0.122

Galvanized iron 0.152

Cast Iron 0.260

Wood Stave 0.183 to 0.915

Concrete 0.305 to 3.050

Riveted Steel 0.915 to 9.150

Є is the average height of the protuberances on the pipe’s inner surface and D

is the pipe’s diameter.

 We must remember that the values in table typically used, are not actual

measured ones, but are instead the result of data correlations constructed over a range

of measurements. They are sometimes referred to as ”equivalent” roughnesses; it is

useful to consider them as simply representative values.

Minor losses

For any pipe system, in addition to the Moody-type friction loss computed for

the length of pipe. Most pipe systems consist of considerably more than straight pipes.

These additional components add to the overall head loss of the system. Such losses

are generally termed minor losses, with the apparent implication being that the

majority of the system loss is associated with the friction in the straight portions of the

pipes, the major losses or local losses. In many cases this is true. In other cases the

minor losses are greater than the major losses. The minor losses may raise by:

1. Pipe entrance or exit

2. Sudden expansion or contraction

3. Bends, elbows, tees, and other fittings

4. Valves, open or partially closed

5. Gradual expansions or contractions

The major losses may not be so minor; e.g., a partially closed valve can cause

a greater pressure drop than a long pipe. The losses are commonly measured

experimentally. The data, especially for valves, are somewhat dependent upon the
particular manufacturers design. The most common method used to determine these

head losses or pressure drops

∆P v2
hL= =K L
ρG 2g

Where K Lmeans (local) loss coefficient. Although K Lis dimensionless, it is not

correlated in the literature with the Reynolds number and roughness ratio but rather

simply with the raw size of the pipe. Almost all data are reported for turbulent-flow

conditions.

Figure 6. Friction Loss Coefficient for Fittings

Pipe in Series
 Pipes are said to be in series if they are connected end to end (in continuation

with each other) so that the fluid flows in a continuous line without any branching.

The volume rate of flow through the pipes in series is the same throughout.

Suppose a pipe line consists of a number of pipes of different sizes and lengths

Figure 7. Pipe in Series

Let d1, d2, d3 be the diameters of the component pipes.

Let l1, l2, l3 be the lengths of these component pipes.

Let v1, v2, v3 be the velocities in these pipes.

Pipes connected in continuation as in this case are said to be connected in

series. In this arrangement the rate of discharge Q is the same in all the pipes.

Ignoring secondary losses the total loss of head is equal to the sum of the friction

losses in the individual pipes.

If h f 1, h f 2, h f 3 be the losses of head in the individual pipes the total loss of

head h f is given by:

4 fl 1 v 12 4 fl2 v 22 4 fl3 v32

h f = h f 1 +hf 2+ hf 3 = + +
d1 2 g d2 2 g d3 2 g
 fl1 Q 2 fl2 Q2 fl3 Q 2
= + +
3.0257 d 15 3.0257 d 25 3.0257 d35

If the pipe coefficients of the pipes are different the above equation can be re

arranged as

fl f 1 l 1 f 2 l 2 f 3 l 3
= + + +…
d 5 d 1 5 d 25 d 3 5

Equivalent Pipe Corresponding to a Given Set of Pipes in Series:

Let d1, d2, d3 be the diameters, and l1, l2, l3 be the lengths of the various pipes in

a series connection. Let Q be the discharge. Let hf be the total loss of head.

Let d be the diameter of an equivalent pipe of length l to replace the

compound pipe to pass the same discharge at the same loss of head.

fl1 Q2 fl2 Q2 fl3 Q2 flQ 2

hf = 5
+ 5
+ 5
= 5
3.0257 d 1 3.0257 d 2 3.0257 d3 3.0257 d

l l1 l2 l3
= + +
d 5 d5 d 5 d 5

The above relation is called Dupuit’s equation.

Equivalent Length of a Pipe with Intermediate Fittings:

Suppose a pipe of length I is provided with an intermediate fitting due to

which the loss of head = k(v2/2g). Let Ie be the length of pipe, the friction loss due to

which is equal to k(v2/2g).

4 fle v 2 v2 kd
=k ∴ le
d 2g 2g 4f

This length may be added to the actual length of the pipe to determine the

overall loss of head. Similarly if l e 1 , l e1 , l e1 … etc . are the equivalent lengths of pipe

corresponding to various fittings.

(l e1 , l e1 ,l e 1 …) v 2
overall loss of head=4 f
d 2g

Pipes Connected in Parallel

Pipes are said to be in parallel when they are so connected that the flow from a

pipe branches or divides into two or more separate pipes and then reunite into a single

pipe.

Suppose a main pipe branched at section 1-1 into two pipes of lengths l 1 and l2

and diameters d1 and d2 and unite again at a section 2-2 to form a single pipe.

Figure 8. Pipe in Parallel

Then the two branch pipes are said to be connected in parallel.

Water And Pump Horse Power

 To fully understand water horsepower, it is important to understand the

terminology involved in deriving such a unit. The term “energy” is defined as the

capacity to do work. “Power” is the rate at which energy flows or at which energy is

used per unit of time; it is also the rate at which work is performed. In other words,

power is the amount of energy that is used to do work or how quickly work can be

done. Water horsepower is the minimum power that is required to move the water. In

other words, it is the power that the pump would require if the pump were 100%

efficient. The water horsepower can be determined if the flow rate of the water and

the force (pressure) required to produce that flow are known. The following formula

can be used to calculate water horsepower (WHP).

HQ
WHP=
3960

Where H is the change in pressure measured in height of water in feet and Q is

the water flow rate in gallons per minute.

Pumping Power

The power imparted into a fluid increases the energy of the fluid per unit

volume. Thus the power relationship is between the conversion of the mechanical

energy of the pump mechanism and the fluid elements within the pump. In general,

this is governed by a series of simultaneous differential equations, known as the

Navier–Stokes equations. However, a simpler equation relating only the different

energies in the fluid, known as Bernoulli's equation can be used. Hence the power, P,

required by the pump:

 ∆ pQ
P= η

Where Δp is the change in total pressure between the inlet and outlet (in Pa), and Q,

the volume flow-rate of the fluid is given in m 3/s. The total pressure may have

gravitational, static pressure and kinetic energy components; i.e. energy is distributed

between change in the fluid's gravitational potential energy (going up or down hill),

change in velocity, or change in static pressure. η is the pump efficiency, and may be

given by the manufacturer's information, such as in the form of a pump curve, and is

typically derived from either fluid dynamics simulation (i.e. solutions to the Navier–

Stokes for the particular pump geometry), or by testing. The efficiency of the pump

depends upon the pump's configuration and operating conditions (such as rotational

speed, fluid density and viscosity etc.)

¿¿

For a typical "pumping" configuration, the work is imparted on the fluid, and

is thus positive. For the fluid imparting the work on the pump (i.e. a turbine), the work

is negative. Power required to drive the pump is determined by dividing the output

power by the pump efficiency. Furthermore, this definition encompasses pumps with

no moving parts, such as a siphon.

(https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pump#Pumping_power)

Pump Efficiency

When we speak of the efficiency of any machine, we are simply referring to

how well it can convert one form of energy to another. If one unit of energy is
supplied to a machine and its output, in the same units of measure, is one-half unit, its

efficiency is 50 percent. 

As simple as this may seem, it can still get a bit complex because the units

used by our English system of measurement can be quite different for each form of

energy. Fortunately, the use of constants brings equivalency to these otherwise

diverse quantities.

A common example of such a machine is the heat engine, which uses energy

in the form of heat to produce mechanical energy. This family includes many

members, but the internal combustion engine is one with which we are all familiar.

Although this machine is an integral part of our everyday lives, its effectiveness in

converting energy is far less than we might expect. 

The efficiency of the typical automobile engine is around 20 percent. To put it

another way, 80 percent of the heat energy in a gallon of gasoline does no useful

work. Although gas mileage has increased somewhat over the years, that increase has

as much to do with increased mechanical efficiency as increased engine efficiency

itself. 

In the pump industry, much of the work involves two extremely simple, yet

efficient, machines—the centrifugal pump and the AC induction motor. The

centrifugal pump converts mechanical energy into hydraulic energy (flow, velocity

and pressure), and the AC motor converts electrical energy into mechanical energy. 

Many medium and larger centrifugal pumps offer efficiencies of 75 to 93

percent and even the smaller ones usually fall into the 50 to 70 percent range. Large
AC motors, on the other hand, approach an efficiency of 97 percent, and any motor—

ten horsepower and above—can be designed to break the 90 percent barrier.

The overall efficiency of a centrifugal pump is simply the ratio of the water

(output) power to the shaft (input) power and is illustrated by the equation below:

Pw
Ef=
Ps

Where:

Ef= efficiency

Pw= the water power

Ps= the shaft power

In the U.S., Ps is the power provided to the pump shaft in brake horsepower

(BHP) and Pw is:

Q×H
Pw =
3960 Pw

Where:

Q = Flow (gallons per minute—GPM) 

H = Head (feet)

The constant (3,960) converts the product of flow and head (GPM-feet) into

BHP. These equations predict that a pump that produces 100 GPM at 30 feet of head

and requires 1 BHP will have an overall efficiency is 75.7 percent at that flow point.

An extension of the second equation also allows the computation of the BHP required
at any point on a pump’s performance curve if we know its hydraulic efficiency. I will

show some examples of this later in this series.

(https://www.pumpsandsystems.com/topics/pumps/pumps/centrifugal-pump-

efficiency-what-efficiency)

Specific Speed

Specific Speed is often confusing to many of us because when we see the

word speed, we immediately think “impeller speed”. Actually, it is just a number that

refers to a particular impeller design or geometry without respect to its size (capacity).

A model number, the specific speed, is therefore used to classify pumps. Pumps with

low specific speed, so-called low Ns pumps, have a radial outlet with large outlet

diameter compared to inlet diameter. On the contrary, pumps with high specific

speed, so-called high Ns pumps, have an increasingly axial outlet, with small outlet

diameter compared to the width. Different pump sizes and pump types have different

maximum efficiency. The chart below shows the relationship of the efficiency of

centrifugal pumps as functions of specific speed, this chart is used to test or show if

the designed pumps are working properly.

 RELATED STUDIES

DESIGN, FABRICATION AND PERFORMANCE EVALUATION OF A TEST

RIG OF CENTRIFUGAL PUMPS IN SERIES AND PARALLEL

COMBINATION

By: Naveen Sharma and Lajpat Rai

A study by Naveen S. et.al was conducted. Centrifugal pumps find vast

applications in modern machineries and often works either in series or parallel. In this

experimental work, an attempt has been made to design and fabricate an experimental

set-up that comprises of two centrifugal pumps arranged in such a manner that the

experimental set-up works either individually or in series and in parallel

combinations. The maximum value of efficiency estimated is 62.45% for C1 and

65.30% for C2, 55.10% and 58.15%, when pumps operate individually, in series and

in parallel combination, respectively. The designed and fabricated test rig has

efficiently served the purpose of providing a clear idea about the effectiveness of

experimental set-up in transmitting fluid to distant work stations. This study indicated
the methodology could be used to transfer gases or liquid to long distances by using

more number of pumps in series and parallel combinations.

CONSTRUCTION AND EVALUATION OF A LAB-SCALE PUMP TEST RIG

BY: BAGAIN OMAR II A.; BUTAY, KENNETH CARL R.; CORPUZ,

MICHAEL JOHN L.; GUMAYAGAY, KELLY T.; QUIAGAO, ROLDAN D.;

A lab-scale pump test rig was constructed to be used as equipment in

determining pump characteristics. It consists of pipelines which are the suction and

the discharge line. Every pipeline was composed of test ports for pressure gauge

attachments. The source of water in the pump test rig is above pump centreline.

The performance of the pump test rig was evaluated based on the computed

total dynamic head, water power, and efficiency output of the pump. The property of

the pump was also considered in evaluating the pump test rig. In testing and

evaluating the pump test rig, The researcher used the PAES 115 Series 2000 of the

Philippine Agricultural Engineering Standard for the testing procedure. The

researcher use the standard performance curve for the typical pumps as their basis in

reflecting the efficiency of the test rig.

 The pump test rig engine bed was designed to be removable and adjustable by

the use of the flexible hose installed in the suction and discharge. It is used to easier to

mount the electric motor and the pump which is used to test the test rig. Supports are

considered in the base for the firm handling of the pipe connections.

Certain problem was encountered due to fittings, and pulley alignment.

Another problem was encountered during testing because there was high vacuum

pressure causing the flexible hose at the suction to compress until only little water it

can suck. To overcome the problem. The student s used adjustable hose as connector

of the steel pipes so that the pressure given by the vacuum cannot compress the steel

pipe at the suction.

Configuration of Pumps in Series or Parallel installations: Delivery Capacity

Enhancement

BY: Edgar U. Tibay

The challenge of today’s engineers is to find the most efficient way to

operate a pump by increasing its delivery head and its discharge flow in every given

condition. Configurations of pumps in series, parallel and single installations were

compared and studied for eventual developments in pumping systems, technologically

and economically beneficial for future pumping applications in domestic, industrial,

agricultural and re-creational use. The study evaluated the effect and delivery of the

single pump and the configuration in series and parallel arrangement of the units of

equal geometric characteristics. The performance of the delivery discharge and head

and the best arrangement or configuration of the pumping units for an optimum
capacity enhancement was determined. Results of the study show that the pumps

configured in series and parallel statistically increased their respective capacities in

terms of static delivery head and discharge volume flow, respectively.

Keywords: Pump, discharge flow, water, pumping system, Total Dynamic

Head

The study is all about the comparative performance of the pumping units of

geometrically similar capacities configured units in series and parallel installations

against single pump installation. When the pumps are installed in series or parallel it

is very important that they have reasonably similar head-capacity characteristics

throughout their range of operation; otherwise, one pump will carry most of the load,

and under certain conditions, all of the load, with the other pump acting as a

hindrance rather a help. The configuration of pumping units of the same size will

result to an eventual increase of delivery capacities in terms of discharge volume

flows and its static height. White, (2011) averred that two pumps need not to be

identical at all, since they merely handle the same discharge; they may even have

different speeds, although normally both are driven by the same shaft. The combined

operating-point head or resulting head will be more than either pump A or pump B

separately but not as great as their sum.

Flow rate evaluation in parallel pump arrangements: Two case studies

BY: J. Lanzersdorfer, M. Schmidt, J. Pichler

 Hydraulic tests on pumps for industrial applications pose several challenges

for measurement engineers. Among them, conditions for pressure and own rate

measurement do usually not comply with standards for precision measurements. It is

therefore common to perform factory acceptance tests to achieve high accuracy. In

certain cases performance testing on site remains inevitable. In here, we present two

case studies of o-factory measurements using index testing on parallel arranged

pumps. The focus of these studies is on the flow rate determination which comprises

the choice and application of an adequate measurement method, a flow rate

calibration strategy and a reliability test of the results. It is nally possible to determine

the weights of the measured branch flow rates. Comparisons with accessible

performance data correlate very well and makes this kind of proceeding a powerful

tool for volumetric discharge determination at unfavourable flow conditions.

EXPERIMENTAL TESTING AND SIMULATION OF ANSYS

PERFORMANCE OF THE CIRCUM CENTRIFUGAL PUMP SERIES AND

PARALLEL

Junaidi1, Angri Abdirullah2, Bhagaskara Teguh Samudra3

This study was conducted to identify the performance of centrifugal pump

series configuration and parallel configuration experimentally and Ansys simulation.

In the previous study, the performance of centrifugal pumps was calculated by

varying the valve opening. In this study researchers varied motor rotation of 1000

rpm, 1200 rpm, 1400 rpm, 1600 rpm and 1800 rpm with open valve 100%. The

results show that series configuration has higher head value than parallel
configuration. While the parallel configuration has a higher capacity value than the

series configuration. The highest pump efficiency for this pump performance test is in

series configuration of 1800 rpm is 83.4% for experimental and 85% for simulation.

While the lowest pump efficiency is in parallel configuration pumps of 1800 rpm with

an efficiency 14.1% for experimental and 15.5% for simulation. Key Words:

Centrifugal pump, performance, efficiency.

METHODOLOGY

Locale of the Study

The fabrication of the multi-pump test rig was done at Mariano Marcos State

University, College of Engineering, Batac City. The said area is accessible for the

students for the use of the available equipment’s and tools necessary for the

fabrication of the study. The evaluation of the study held at the Mechanical

Engineering Laboratory. The duration of the study started on October 2019 until May

2020.

Flow chart of the study

DESIGN

FABRICATION AND ASSEMBLY

REVISE/ADJUST
PRE-TESTING

WERE REQUIREMENTS
SATISFIED?
 NO YES YES

FINAL TESTING AND EVALUATION

Figure 9. Flow chart of the Study

Materials

By the use of some mechanical equipment that were available in the university

the researchers assembled the test rig. In constructing the multi –pump test rig, the

researchers used materials that are locally available in the area. These different

materials were purchased from reliable hardware’s. The main materials used in the

fabrication are the following.

1) G.I PIPE – these are pipes that are threaded manually or mechanically at

which the water will. The whole system are made of these pipes.

Figure 10. GI Pipe

 2) Fittings – these are materials that are used to interconnect pipes using thread.

Figure 11. Tee Figure 12. A 90˚ Elbow and a

1“Union

3) Valves – materials that are used in controlling the flow of the water from the

system. Valves used are ball valves and check valve.

Figure 13. Check Valve Figure 14. Ball Valve

4) Plastic Drum Container – a material used to contain the water a circulation

tank within the system.

Figure 15. Drum

5) Measuring Devices – materials used to gather data. These are gauges that are

calibrated. The system consists of negative, positive pressure gauge, water

flow meter and energy meter.

Figure 16. Pressure Gauge Figure 17. Vacuum Gauge

Figure 18. Water Meter Figure 19. Energy Meter

6) Pump – This material is the main device used in the study. This is the one that

was used to evaluate the test rig.

Figure 20. Jet Pump

 Fabrication and Assembly Phase

After all the equipment and materials had been secured, made and delivered

the fabrication and assembly was next at the Mechanical Laboratory and Workshop,

The multi-pump test rig has four main parts, the frame, circulation tank, pipelines and

supports.

The first part of the project was the fabrication of the frame of the test rig. A

frame was created by 3x4 angle bars. Next is the placement of the circulation tank in

the frame and then the pipelines It consist of the suction and the discharge, The

researchers used 2” and 1” is being manually and machine generated thread after all

the pipes are fully thread, the length of pipes used was measured and cut in their

desired length, The researchers assembly the system for the series and parallel

connection thru system. Along with fittings so the pipelines are attached. Respectively

pipes were connected by means of threads. And lastly we support out pipelines to

lessen the vibration and to hold it still.

 Frame

Figure 22. Top view Figure 23.Bottom view

 Figure 24. Side view Figure 25. Isometric view

Figure 26. Isometric model of the multi-pump test rig.

This figure shows the isometric drawing of the multi-pump test rig consisting the

pipeline (series, parallel connection) and the pump. It show the arrangement of parts of the

test rig.

Testing and Evaluation of the Project

The pump test rig was tested by testing two connections, the series and parallel

connections. The testing was done in different time intervals and recording the water volume

flow by the use of water flow meter, energy consumed by the use of energy meter and

pressures by the use of negative pressure gauge for the suction and positive pressure gauges

for the discharge. The static head, pressure head, total dynamic head, volume flow rate, water

power and efficiency were calculated. The calculation of the different heads was done by the

use of Bernoulli’s equation.

GENERAL START-UP PROCEDURES

 Before conducting any experiment, it is necessary to do the following to avoid

any misused and malfunction

1) Fill the circulation tank with water

2) Make sure the drain valve is in fully closed

3) Switch on/plug in the main power supply

4) Review and check for the following valve position

For Single Pump Operating

-Pump 1 with valve 1 and valve 3 is fully closed and valve 2 is fully open

and Pump 2 is turned off.

-Pump 2 with valve 2 and valve 3 is fully closed and valve 1 is fully open

and Pump 1 is turned off.

For Series Connection

- Both Pump is operating with valve 1 and valve 2 is fully closed and

valve 3 is fully open

Figure 26. Series Pipeline

For Parallel Connection

- Both Pump is operating with valve and 1 and valve 2 is fully open and

valve 3 is fully closed.

 Figure 27. Parallel Pipeline

5) Turn on the main switch on the control panel. Ensure all indicators illuminate.

6) Slowly open the valves for the desired experiment.

GENERAL SHUT-DOWN PROCEDURES

1) Turn off the switch of the pump. Ensure all the indicators doesn’t illuminate.

2) Empty the water inside the circulation tank. Make sure to fully open the drain

valve.

3) Unplug/Switch Off the main power supply.

Volume Flow Rate Determination

The researchers used volume method in determining the flow rate. The

circulation tank has sufficient capacity to prevent the liquid from overflowing during

experiment, and it was sufficiently rigid to prevent deformation when it was filled

with liquid. The liquid was obtained in the circulation tank along with the water meter

for a definite time.

 V f −V i
Q=
t

Where:
V f – Volume recorded after the set time, m3
V i – Volume recorded before the experiment, m3
t – Time set by the researchers, minute

The volume flow rates that were computed for the two connections are shown in table

# (See Appendix # for detailed computation.)

Table 2. Computed volume flow rate of the two connection

m3 ft 3
Q( ¿ Q( ¿ Q (GPM ¿ Q (LPM ¿
sec sec

SERIES 0.001002 0.035 15.79 60

PARALLEL 0.001503 0.053 23.68 90

Static Head Determination

Static head determination was obtained by subtracting the distance from point

1 (pressure attachment at suction) to pump centreline to the distance from point 2

(pressure attachment at discharge) to pump centreline.

Static Head=Z2 −Z 1
Where:

Z1 – vertical distance from the suction to centerline of the pump, m, ft.

Z2 – vertical distance from the centreline to the discharge, m , ft.

Pressure Head Determination

Pressure head was measured by negative pressure gauge at the suction side

and positive pressure gauge at the discharge side.

P2−P1
Pressure Head=
γ

Where:

P 1– Vacuum pressure gauge reading at the suction side, kPa, and psi

P 2– positive pressure gauge reading at the discharge side, kPa , psi, inHg

kN
γ – Specific weight of water,
m3

Total Dynamic Head Determination

TDH was calculated by the summation of static and pressure heads.

P2−P 1
TDH =Z 2−Z 1 + +hf
γ

Where:

TDH – measure of energy imparted to the water by the pump, m , ft.

hf – head loss due to friction, m , ft.

The computed total dynamic head of the two connection are as follows ( See

Appendix # for detailed computation.

Table 3. Computed total dynamic head of the two connection.

Connection PUMP 1 PUMP 2

Series 21.65 50.18

Parallel 72.68 72.67

Water Power Determination

Water power was calculated using the formula:

1 hp
WHP=Q x TDH x γ x
ft −lb
550
sec

Where:

WHP – Water horse power, HP

m3 ft 3
Q – Is the flow rate of the water, ,
sec sec

KN lbf
γ – Specific weight of water, ,
m 3 ft 3

The water power that were computed for the two connection are shown in table #

(See Appendix # for detailed computation.):

Table 4. Computed water powers of the two connection.

Connection WHP(hp) ηp

SERIES 0.205 20.5%

PARALLEL 0.44 44%

Pump Efficiency Determination

The pump efficiency was obtained using the formula:

WHP
ηp= x 100 %
BHP

Where:

WHP – water power, Hp

BHP – brake power, Hp

The computed pump efficiency of the pumps is presented in the table below (See

Appendix # for detailed computation.)

Table 5. Computed efficiencies of the two connection.

Connection WHP(hp) ηp

SERIES 0.205 20.5%

PARALLEL 0.44 44%

Specific Speed Determination

The specific speed was computed by the use of the equation:

N √Q
Ns=
H 3 /4

Where:

N – rated RPM of the pump

m3 liters ft 3
Q – Volume flow rate, GPM, , ,
sec sec sec

H – Total dynamic head in ft., m

Table 6 present the specific speeds that were computed using the pumps in

series and parallel connection.

Table 6. Computed specific speeds of the pumps in series and parallel connection.

Series Parallel
PUMP 1
1346.1 384
PUMP 2
716.1 384
 Figure 28. Volume Flow Rate Determination.

This figure shows the researchers recorded which has a volume initial and

volume final at the set time for the computation of the volume flow rate.

Figure 29. Researcher evaluating the multi –pump of the test rig .

The figure above shows the evaluation of the test rig. The researchers record

the different pressures and flow rates at constant RPM and two different connection.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

This chapter presents the results of construction, analysis, and interpretation of

data gathered through tables and graphs on the different parameters gathered

measured and solved using the constructed multi-pump test rig.

 Figure 30. The constructed multi-pump test rig.

The multi-pump test rig is shown in fig.the suction and discharge of both

pump consists a union, this was used by the researchers to easily detach the pumps to

the system for maintenance without disassembling the whole system. And also

consists of a bulkhead attached to the water tank for easy disassembling. The

researchers constructed an individual suction and 1 discharge for the two pumps. And

constructed pipeline connection from pump 1 discharge to pump 2 suction to create a

series connection.

The frame has a length of 2 m, width of 0.795 m, and a height of 0.804 m. the

frame were made of flat and angle bars joined together by arc welding.

Table 7. Project Cost

This table presents the cost of materials bought and ordered in the fabrication

and assembly of the multi- pump test rig.

DESCRIPTION QUANTITY COST UNIT AMOUNT

COST
 A. MATERIALS
Bolzano Jet Pump 1 Hp 2 Pc 4600 9200
Brake Caster 6 Pc 180 1080
G.I. pipe 1” s40 7 Mtr 620 620
G.I. pipe 2” s40 3 Mtr 750 750
G.I. Nipple 1” x 12” 1 Pc 90 90
G.I. Nipple 1” x 8” 1 Pc 80 80
G.I. Nipple 1” x 4” 5 Pc 41 205
G.I. Nipple 1” x 3” 8 Pc 28 232
G.I. Nipple 1” x 2” 10 Pc 24 240
G.I. Elbow 1” 19 Pc 75 1425
G.I. Tee 1” 12 Pc 98 1176
Ball Valve 1” 4 Pc 450 1800
Bolts and Nuts ⅟4” x 1” 30 Pc 5 150
Bolts and Nuts 3/4 “x2” 4 Pc 18 72
Pressure Gauge 6 Pc 200 1200
Vacuum gauge 2 Pc 260 520
Water Meter 1 Pc 370 370
P.D Wire 3.5” 2 Mtr 26 52
G.I. Nipple 2”x 4” 3 Pc 60 180
G.I. Clamp 2” 2 Pc 70 140
G.I. Coupling reducer 2 Pc 50 100

1”x 3/4 “
Clayton Check Valve 3 Pc 250 750
G.I. End Cap 2” 3 Pc 147 441
G.I. End Coupling 2” 2 Pc 58 116
G.I. Tee 2” 2 Pc 280 560
G.I. Elbow 2” 2 Pc 280 560
G.I. Tee Reducer 2”x1” 2 Pc 351 702
Drum Container 1 Pc 1850 1850
Bulkhead 2” 1 Pc 320 320
U-bolt 1” 4 Pc 25 100
Teflon 1/2 “ 30 Pc 10 300
Angle Bar 3/4 2 Pc 540 1080
Kolen Circuit Breaker 2 Pc 295 590
Total: 26491 PHP

The grand total of the project is PHP 26,491.00. It included all the pipes, valves,

pressure gauge, fittings, angle bars and all other materials necessary for the

fabrication and assembly as enumerated and tabulated on table #.

SERIES CONNECTION AND PARALLEL CONNECTION

Given Data:

Rated RPM = 3400 RPM

m3 ft 3
Volume Flow Rate = 0.06 = 0.036 At Series Connection
sec sec
m3 ft 3
Volume Flow Rate = 0.06 = 0.036 At Parallel Connection
sec sec
(Obtained from the Volume flow rate determination)

Table 8. Series Connection, volume flow rates, suction and discharge pressure, energy

consumed.

Time Pressure 1 Pressure 2 Pressure 3 Pressure 4 Pressure 5

(mins) (in - hg) (psi) (psi) (psi) (psi)

30 0.2 3 3 16 0
40 0.2 3 3 16 0
60 0.2 3 3 16 0

This table present the data gathered using the series connection on the multi-

pump test rig.

As shown, volume flow rate, suction and discharge pressure, the volume flow

rate has the same volume flow rate. The discharge at pump 1 and the suction at pump

2 have the same pressure and the discharge at pump 2 increased pressure and the

energy consumed the initial and final.

Table 9. Parallel Connection, volume flow rate, suction and discharge

pressure.

Time Pressure 1 Pressure 2 Pressure 3 Pressure 4 Pressure 5

(mins) (in - hg) (psi) (in - hg) (psi) (psi)
30 0.1 28 0.1 28 0
40 0.1 28 0.1 28 0
60 0.1 28 0.1 28 0

This table present the data gathered using the parallel connection on the

multi-pump test rig.

As shown, volume flow rate, suction and discharge pressure the volume flow

rate has increased volume flow rate, the discharge at pump 1 and pump 2 have the

same discharge pressure and the suction pressure at Pump 1 and Pump 2 due to

Parallel Connection due to separate suction line.

Table 10. Total Dynamic Head at Series and Parallel Connection

Connections PUMP 1 PUMP 2

Series 21.65 ft. 50.18 ft.
Parallel 72.68 ft. 72.67 ft.

The table shows how the series and parallel connection can affect the total

dynamic head. The volume flow rate at series connection is the same due to series

principle Q 1=Q2 but the total dynamic head increased in Pump 2 .At the volume flow

rate at parallel connection increases but the total dynamic head stay the same.

Table 11. Water Power and Pump efficiencies of the two Connection

Connection WHP(hp) ηp

SERIES 0.205 20.5%

PARALLEL 0.44 44%
The table shows the water horse power and pump efficiencies of the two connection,

at parallel connection has the highest water power of 0. 44 Hp and the highest

efficiency of 44% Efficiency was obtained by dividing the water power computed and

the rated horse power to the pump which is 1 hp.

Table 12. The specific speed of the two pumps in different connections

` Series Parallel
PUMP 1 1346.1 384
PUMP 2 716.1 384

The table represents the specific speed solved using the total dynamic head per pump

in different connections.

SERIES CONNECTION OPERATION CURVE

 SERIES 1 PUMP
60

50

40

30

20

10

0
0 15.79 GPM

Figure 31. Series Connection Operation Curve based on TDH vs. Volume Flow Rate

The figure above shows the variation between the volume flow rate of the

pump and the total dynamic head, It was observed that series connection within the

pump can increase total dynamic head with the same volume flow rate.

PARALLEL CONNECTION OPERATION CURVE

 80

70

60

50

40

30

20

10

0
11.84GPM 23.68 GPM

1 PUMP PARALLEL

Figure 32. Parallel connection operation curve based on TDH vs. Volume Flow Rate.

The figure above shows the variation between the volume flow rate of the

pump and the total dynamic head, It was observed that the parallel connection can

increases it volume flow rate but the total dynamic head stay the same.

SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

 SUMMARY OF FINDINGS

The findings in the assembly multi-pump test rig were obtained through

testing and evaluation of two connections, A series and a parallel connection with two

similar pumps Bolzano 1Hp jet pump respectively.

At rated RPM of the pumps, the volume flow rate from series and parallel

connection were recorded. From these data the volume flow rate was attained when

series and parallel connection in the experiment. The series connection has a flow rate

3
m
of 0.0001002 while the parallel connection has a volume flow rate of 0.001503
sec

m3
.
sec

Total dynamic heads of the pumps were calculated based on the static head

added by their pressure head differences and lastly added its head loss due to friction.

It is shown that when series in connection can double its total dynamic head, at Pump

1 was at 21.65 ft. and at Pump 2 the previous total dynamic head was doubled at

50.18ft and constant volume flow rate, when in parallel connection it has a constant

total dynamic but has a little discrepancy due to head loss due to friction but has more

volume flow rate at Pump 1 was at 72.68 ft. and at Pump 2 was at 72.67 ft.

The water power and efficiencies of the two connection are directly

proportional with their volume flow rate, the volume rate affect as shown in the

tables. The series connection has a water power of 0.205 hp with an efficiency of

20.5%, while the parallel connection has a water power of 0.44 hp with an efficiency

of 44%.
 CONCLUSION

The development of a multi-pump test rig to be used as an experimental

apparatus was the primary objective of the study. The test rig was evaluated and

tested using two similar pumps with different connection parameters.

1. The assembly of the multi-pump test rig can test two pumps at the same

time, with pipe suction diameter 2 inches, 1 inch and discharge diameter 1

inch. The total project cost of assembling and fabricating of the multi-

pump test rig is PHP. 26,491.

2. The multi-pump test rig gives compact data in attaining pump properties.

Based on the results of the multi-pump test rig by testing the series and

parallel connection, it gives as total dynamic head that are similar and have

the exactly the same graphical presentation in parallel and volume flow

rate which the same in series. That are obtained from the standards. Also

efficiencies and specific speed of the pumps that were tested belong to the

common pump efficiencies and speed.

3. In addition, using the multi-pump test rig you can perform experiments

regarding pumps and pipelines. This includes experiments on pump Total

Dynamic Head, Water Power, Pump efficiency and specific speed

determination.
 Recommendations

Based on the conclusions and findings, further improvements should be done

for the multi-pump test rig.

1. The constructed multi-pump test rig is ready to be used for testing series and

parallel connections. It is recommended to install pressure transducer to

compare pressure recorded by the analog pressure gauge to the digital pressure

gauge. It is recommended also to install flow meter sensor to be able to

compare the volume flow recorded through analog to the volume flow

recorded in digital. This is also for the convenience of the students.

2. It is recommended to fabricate a prony brake in able to record the actual brake

power of the pumps. And install water rotameter to control the flow.