Comparative Study of Pumping Performance of Fluidyne Pump with Ejector and Centrifugal Solar Pumping Systems

Abstract

Fluidyne pump is a promising type of solar pumping system because of the absence of moving parts and low maintenance and primary cost. One of its defects is the small flow rate and efficiency. This paper presents a mathematical analysis of its governing equations to identify its key controlling parameters. These parameters were found to be the gas-to-liquid volume ratio, a temperature factor, and a pressure factor. These factors were found to be proportional to the system’s efficiency and flow rate. Comparing the fluidyne pump with different solar pumping systems shows that every system is suitable for specific operating conditions. Ejector solar thermal refrigerant system is suitable for high flow rate, low pressure, and large size applications, while centrifugal pump/ PV system is preferred for medium head, medium flow rate, and medium installation cost. The Fuidyne pump is suitable for low head, low flow rate, and low-cost applications.