Mixed Flow Submersible Pumps combines the characteristics of both axial and radial flow pumps. This hybrid design allows it to handle large volumes of water at moderate pressure, making it suitable for various industrial and commercial applications. Understanding its design, construction, and operational principles can help in selecting the right pump for specific needs. 

Design and Construction

Mixed flow submersible pumps are designed to operate underwater, often used in applications like water supply, irrigation, flood control, and sewage treatment. The construction of these pumps involves robust materials to withstand harsh operating conditions and prolonged exposure to water.

①Casing and Housing

The pump casing is typically made of cast iron, stainless steel, or other durable materials to resist corrosion and wear. The casing design helps direct the flow of water efficiently through the pump. Submersible pumps often feature a cylindrical or tubular housing that encloses the motor and impeller assembly, protecting them from water and contaminants.

②Seals and Bearings

Sealing mechanisms are crucial for submersible pumps to prevent water ingress into the motor. These pumps often use mechanical seals made of materials like silicon carbide or tungsten carbide for durability. The bearings are usually lubricated by the pumped fluid or sealed with grease to ensure smooth operation and reduce maintenance needs.

③Motor and Electrical Components

Submersible mixed flow pumps are powered by electric motors designed to operate underwater. These motors are typically hermetically sealed and insulated to prevent electrical failures. They are available in various power ratings to match the required flow and head conditions of specific applications.

Impeller Type

The impeller is a critical component in a mixed flow submersible pump, dictating its performance and efficiency.

Mixed Flow Impellers

Mixed flow impellers combine the features of axial and radial impellers. They create both axial and radial thrusts, allowing the pump to handle large volumes of water while generating sufficient pressure. These impellers are usually designed with three to five blades, which are curved to optimize water flow and minimize energy consumption.

Materials and Design

Impellers are typically made of high-strength materials like stainless steel or composite materials to withstand the mechanical stresses and corrosive environments. The design of the impeller blades, including their angle and curvature, is optimized to ensure efficient water movement and reduce the risk of clogging by debris.

Flow and Head Characteristics

The performance of a mixed flow submersible pump is determined by its flow rate and head characteristics, which define its capacity to move water and the height it can lift the water.

Flow Rate

Mixed flow pumps are known for their ability to handle high flow rates, making them ideal for applications requiring the movement of large volumes of water. The flow rate of these pumps can vary significantly based on the design and size, with some models capable of handling up to several thousand liters per second.

Head

The head is the height to which the pump can lift water. Mixed flow pumps are designed to achieve moderate head heights, typically ranging from a few meters to around 30-60 meters, depending on the specific model and application. The ability to generate moderate pressure while maintaining high flow rates makes these pumps versatile for various industrial applications. 

Application of Mixed Flow Submersible Pump

Mixed flow submersible pumps are specialized pumps designed to handle a range of fluid pumping applications, particularly in situations where the fluid has a significant amount of solids or where space constraints require a compact, efficient solution. These pumps combine features of both centrifugal and axial flow pumps, making them versatile and effective for various uses. Here are some key applications of mixed flow submersible pumps:

1. Wastewater Treatment:

Sewage Handling: Mixed flow submersible pumps are widely used in sewage treatment plants to handle wastewater containing solid particles and debris. Their design allows them to efficiently move water while managing solids and maintaining high efficiency.

Lift Stations: They are used in lift stations to transport wastewater from lower to higher elevations, ensuring continuous flow in gravity-based sewer systems.

2. Stormwater Management:

Stormwater Pumping Stations: In areas prone to flooding or where stormwater management is critical, mixed flow submersible pumps are used to manage and pump stormwater, helping to prevent overflow and property damage.

Drainage Systems: They help remove excess water from drainage systems, especially in locations with high water tables or heavy rainfall.

3. Industrial Applications:

Process Water: In industrial settings, these pumps are used to handle process water that may contain particulates or contaminants. They are effective in maintaining water flow in various industrial processes.

Cooling Systems: They are used in cooling systems to circulate water through cooling towers and heat exchangers, particularly in industries with large-scale cooling requirements.

4. Mining Operations:

De-Watering: Mixed flow submersible pumps are employed in mining operations to de-water mines and keep excavation sites dry. Their ability to handle water with suspended solids makes them suitable for mining environments.

Slurry Handling: In some mining operations, they are used to handle slurry and other fluids containing solids.

5. Agricultural Irrigation:

Irrigation Systems: These pumps are used in agricultural irrigation to pump water from wells or reservoirs, often in areas where the water contains sediments or particulates. They help ensure a steady and reliable water supply for crops.

6. Flood Control:

Emergency Flooding: In flood-prone areas, mixed flow submersible pumps can be used in emergency situations to rapidly remove excess water and reduce the impact of flooding.

7. Municipal Water Supply:

Water Supply Systems: They are used in municipal water supply systems to pump water from wells or other sources to storage tanks or treatment facilities. Their durability and efficiency make them suitable for maintaining water supply reliability.

8. Construction Sites:

Site De-Watering: During construction, especially in excavations and foundations, mixed flow submersible pumps are used to manage groundwater and keep construction sites dry.

Efficiency and Performance

The efficiency of mixed flow submersible pumps is a key factor in their performance. These pumps are designed to operate efficiently over a wide range of flow and head conditions. Efficiency improvements are achieved through optimized impeller design, high-quality materials, and advanced manufacturing techniques.

Tianjin Kairun

Tianjin Kairun is a prominent manufacturer known for its rigorous quality inspections to ensure defect-free pumps. They offer a comprehensive warranty service for their products, providing peace of mind and confidence in their performance. Their pumps are designed to meet the demanding needs of industries such as water supply, irrigation, and wastewater treatment.

For inquiries, you can contact Tianjin Kairun at catherine@kairunpump.com.

References

1. "What is a Mixed Flow Pump? What Does the Mixed Flow Pump Application Do?" Thai Khuong Pump.

2. "Submersible Mixed Flow Column Pump Type ABS AFLX," Sulzer.

3. "Mixed Flow Pump," KSB.

4. "Submersible Mixed Flow Pump," Andritz.