Abstract
This study examines the design, fabrication, and performance evaluation of water pump impellers utilising rapid prototyping technologies through 3D printing. Traditional impeller manufacturing methods, such as casting, forging, and CNC machining, are often time-intensive, costly, and limited to complex geometries. This project explores the application of additive manufacturing (3D Printing) techniques, particularly Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) and Selective Laser Sintering (SLS). The study used Computer-Aided Design (CAD) to optimize impeller geometries using SOLIDWORKS, followed by performance simulations with Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to analyze flow rate, pressure head, cavitation, and hydraulic efficiency. Materials such as PLA, ABS, and nylon are selected based on their mechanical properties, water resistance, and durability. 3D-printed prototypes are fabricated and tested experimentally using a custom-built pump test bench. The study compares the hydraulic and mechanical performance of 3D-printed impellers to those manufactured traditionally. Key performance indicators include flow rate, pressure head, cavitation resistance, and wear resistance. Results show that, with suitable design optimization and material selection, 3D-printed impellers can achieve comparable performance levels to conventional impellers, particularly in low-to-medium-duty applications. The study highlights critical challenges such as surface roughness, material variability, and long-term durability, recommending targeted post-processing and material advancements to mitigate these issues. Ultimately, this research demonstrates that 3D printing is a viable alternative for impeller manufacturing, offering significant potential for innovation, cost efficiency, and sustainability in fluid machinery applications. The findings contribute to the growing body of knowledge on additive manufacturing’s role in modern engineering and its transformative impact on pump technology.
Biography
Dr. Kazeem Aderemi Bello is an accomplished researcher in the field of Industrial and Mechanical Engineering, with a specialized focus on smart manufacturing technology. His research is highly relevant in today’s era of Industry 4.0 and sustainable engineering, aiming to improve production efficiency, reduce waste, and implement intelligent systems in industrial settings. His work has advanced critical topics such as zero-waste manufacturing, life cycle assessment of industrial processes, and advanced machining techniques. Dr. Bello’s current research at Durban University of Technology, South Africa, under a prestigious postdoctoral fellowship, reflects his growing international relevance and impact in applied industrial systems.
