Optimization of impeller design in the RotaFlow centrifugal pump

Abstract

As part of the development of a domestic counterpart, the impeller of the RotaFlow centrifugal pump (Maquet, Germany) was modernized within the framework of research into the operating conditions of centrifugal pumps used in extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) therapy. A novel rotor impeller design was proposed, featuring two types of blades: the primary elongated blades responsible for generating most of the pressure, and secondary shortened auxiliary blades. A three-dimensional computational model of the RotaFlow pump was created incorporating the redesigned impeller. To evaluate the effectiveness of the modernization, the new design was compared to the original Maquet impeller. Computational simulations were conducted to analyze key fluid dynamics parameters, such as turbulence intensity and flow velocity, within the typical operating range of the pump (flow rates from 1 to 5 L/min at a pressure drop of 350 mmHg). Mathematical modeling demonstrated that the new blade configuration yields improved flow characteristics compared to the original design.