Series and Parallel Pumps Apparatus
The Series and Parallel Pumps Apparatus by Atto Labware is a high-quality educational apparatus designed to study the characteristics and performance of centrifugal pumps operated individually, in series, and in parallel configurations. This system enables students to experimentally determine the combined head–flow relationships, efficiency curves, and overall performance for different pump arrangements. It is an essential setup for Fluid Mechanics and Hydraulic Machinery laboratories.
Educational Objectives
Students and researchers will be able to:
-
Compare the performance of pumps connected in series and parallel.
-
Determine pump head, discharge, power input, and efficiency.
-
Plot characteristic curves (Head vs. Discharge, Power vs. Discharge, Efficiency vs. Discharge).
-
Verify theoretical relationships for series and parallel operations.
-
Understand applications of multi-pump systems in water supply and industrial systems.
Performance Measurement
-
Measurement of flow rate using a rotameter or volumetric tank.
-
Measurement of suction and delivery pressure for each pump.
-
Determination of input power using a wattmeter or digital energy meter.
-
Calculation of efficiency under various flow and load conditions.
-
Comparison of results for single, series, and parallel operation modes.
Panel and Instruments / Components
-
Centrifugal Pumps (2 Nos.): Identical pumps with clear suction and delivery connections.
-
Prime Mover: Electric motor coupled to each pump.
-
Flow Measurement: Rotameter or calibrated measuring tank.
-
Pressure Measurement: Bourdon gauges or digital pressure sensors on suction and delivery sides.
-
Valves: Non-return valves and control valves to enable series and parallel operation.
-
Water Reservoir: Supply and return tank for closed-loop operation.
-
Electrical Control Panel: Includes on/off switches, energy meter, and speed control.
-
Frame Construction: Powder-coated steel frame with durable mounting for pumps and instruments.
Specifications (Includes Technical Data)
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Type | Pump Performance Test Apparatus |
| Pump Type | Centrifugal Pumps (Identical) |
| Pump Capacity | 0.5 HP each |
| Flow Range | 0 – 25 LPM |
| Head Range | Up to 25 m |
| Pressure Measurement | Bourdon Gauges / Digital Sensors |
| Flow Measurement | Rotameter / Measuring Tank |
| Power Supply | 230 V AC, Single Phase, 50 Hz |
| Motor Speed | 2800 RPM (Typical) |
| Working Fluid | Water (Closed Loop) |
| Frame Material | Stainless Steel and Powder-Coated Steel |
| Dimensions | 1500 mm L × 600 mm W × 1000 mm H |
| Weight (Approx.) | 65 kg |
Note: Optional data acquisition system and computer interface available for real-time performance analysis.
