Problem of Prolonging the Safe Life of Vortex Pumps.

A hydraulic method of balancing the axial forces on the working wheel is considered. Its essence is that the outer radius of the pocket situated on the suction side is greater than onthe forcing side. Holes are made in the pump frame and in the wheel boss. The former connects the smaller pocket with the forcing chamber, and the latter connects both pockets. When the wheel is displaced from its central position, a difference in pressures and, consequently, a restoring force come into play.