Design and Application of Low Flow Steam Siphon Jet Pumps

Low flow steam siphon jet pumps are referred to as rate jets, since these pumps have the ability to control flow rates by varying the steam pressure applied to the jet. The jet pump design consists of several components. Steam inlet piping is connected to a steam nozzle that directs steam into the jet body to provide energy to lift a liquid, or feed. Feed is lifted up through the suction lift piping, where the condensing steam forces the liquid into a diffuser and out of the jet discharge piping. Closed form equations cannot model these jets, and commercial computer models to describe jet performance are still in a state of development. In general, experimental data is required to determine the performance characteristics of this type of jet design. Numerous tests were performed on different jet designs to evaluate the effects of motive steam pressures, suction lift, discharge head, jet dimensions, and the specific gravity of the fluid that is lifted and pumped by the jet. Additionally, the system installation significantly affects the performance of siphon jets, and one such installation was studied.