CFD modelling and design optimization of a gerotor pump

Gerotor pumps are widely used in the automotive industry for fuel lift and injection, engine oil lubrication and in transmission systems. The CFD analysis of gerotor pumps can help optimise flow performance and reduce cavitation damage and noise. In this paper, a CFD design optimisation of a fuel lift gerotor pump has been conducted using a 3-D transient model with moving and deforming boundaries. The effect of different design parameters, such as porting geometry and rotor clearances has been investigated. Results showed that the rotor clearances and the inlet grooves arc! the most influential parameters for pump performance, while for noise and cavitation damage, porting sealing are most important. The optimum pump design was verified using experimental data.