Ram Pump
The Fall 2017 Ram Pump subteam worked on mathematically modeling the ram pump's mechanical behavior. Experiments conducted the previous semester proved that the ram pump does not operate as anticipated or desired. Ideally, modeling will explain this unpredicted behavior. With this knowledge, the team will be able to produce a more efficient and effective design. The team found a way to derive the forces involved in the pump, but more work needs to be done to determine what the optimal spring force is for the system.
Abstract Abstract Fall 2016: The purpose of the Ram Pump team is to design and develop a properly functioning hydraulic ram pump, or hydram, for implementation in AguaClara plants. The hydram can be used to deliver water from below the facility back to the top for utilization in chemical stock tanks or to collect water at higher elevations for alternative uses. The team's main goals for this semester are to determine which parameters are effective in allowing the system to work at minimal driving head as well as developing an audio-based diagnostic system for plant operator use in order to identify specific issues and apply correct solutions.
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