Paper 5: Model Testing of High Head Pumps

Abstract

After a world-wide survey of possible sites, the National Engineering Laboratory was chosen as the independent laboratory best fitted to carry out acceptance tests on the bidder's model pumps for the Tehachapi Crossing Scheme.

Model test conditions corresponding as nearly as possible to the full prototype head of 1970 ft were required, involving powers of between 3000 and 4000 hp, comparative repeatabilities of the order of ±0·15 per cent, and overall accuracies better than ± 0·3 per cent, the whole test programme to be completed within a tight time schedule. The paper describes the preparation, specification, and general aspects of the execution of the test programme. Its relevance to model testing of pumps in general is also discussed.