Thermodynamic performance investigation and multi-objective optimization of the subcooled liquid hydrogen centrifugal pump for hydrogen refueling stations

Subcooled liquid hydrogen refueling stations are regarded as promising infrastructure for hydrogen-powered vehicles. Centrifugal pump is considered the most critical component to pressurize liquid hydrogen into subcooled liquid hydrogen, achieving fast-refueling for the onboard tank. Its thermodynamic behaviour significantly affects refueling efficiency, but the influencing mechanisms are lacking. Therefore, the thermodynamic model considering cryogenic cavitation is developed for the pump. Quantitative influence of structural factors on the thermodynamic performance is investigated by signal-to-noise ratio and analysis of variance. Results demonstrate that thermodynamic performance is significantly affected by the blade wrapping angle and outlet installation angle. An optimal combination with higher efficiency and pressure ratio is identified by grey relational analysis. Compared to initial design, the isentropic efficiency and total pressure ratio are increased by 5.09% and 0.64% under optimal combination. These findings provide novel insight for efficient design to enhance refueling efficiency for subcooled liquid hydrogen centrifugal pump.