Flow investigation of a miniature pulsatile pump

• Main Author: Koh, Tee Yan.
• Other Authors: Chan Weng Kong
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: 2013
• Subjects: DRNTU::Engineering
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10356/53559
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

Fluid flow pattern for a miniature pulsatile pump is investigated through experimental flow visualization method conducted through the use of an existing in house experimental rig. The original experimental rig is modified in this project to further enhance the quality of the images captured. Various imaging methods are also used to determine the best method of capturing the require image. To ensure consistency, the pump was set to run at 100 rpm for the capturing of all images. The floating tracer method is used in this project to visualize the flow pattern. The flow channel is illuminated by a laser sheet generated using a laser pen and a glass rod. The flow image is then captured using a camera in both video and individual image mode. By comparing the images captured, the photo imaging mode is determined to be able to produce images that are of a higher quality. Different camera lens and settings are also explored in order to determine the best combination of settings to be used for taking flow images. The best images are taken with the AF-S Nikkor Micro 200mm 1:4 ED lens with a Nikon D7000 body with settings ISO 3200, F-number 5.0, Shutter speed 1/80. Flow images of the pump at the various instantaneous positions are also captured and analyzed. The flow images are then cross referenced with CFD results that were collected previously in another separate project. It was found that for most of the pump position, the CFD results are largely accurate with exception for one of the position. The deviation is likely to be due to the difference in the assumed ball valve position as well as omission by the CFD software to include previous compressive forces on fluid due to the previous pump strokes