To optimize the stationary components in the multistage centrifugal pump, the effects of the return vane profile on the performances of the multistage centrifugal pump were investigated experimentally, taking account of the inlet flow conditions for the next stage impeller. The return vane, whose trailing edge is set at the outer wall position of the annular channel downstream of the vane and which discharges the swirl-less flow, gives better pump performances. By equipping such return vane with the swirl stop set from the trailing edge to the main shaft position, the unstable head characteristics can be also suppressed successfully at the lower discharge. Taking the pump performances and the flow conditions into account, the impeller blade was modified so as to get the shock-free condition where the incidence angle is zero at the inlet.

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