Water-Ring Self-Priming Pumps

Abstract

The method of operation of water-ring self-priming pumps is briefly described, with performance data of three designs of such pump. The mechanism by which these pumps produce their effect is discussed, and the conclusions reached indicate that it is impossible to anticipate their performance from their physical dimensions as can be done with a centrifugal pump. If, however, the head-discharge curve of any pump is established, and the horsepower required to overcome mechanical and disk friction is known or can be closely estimated, the horsepower taken by the pump at any point of its range can be calculated with a high degree of accuracy. Amongst the information included are graphs of air-pumping capacity and details of experiments to determine the best designs of rotor vane. Small changes in the shape of the vanes produce remarkable differences in performance.