A PRELIMINARY FLOW VISUALIZATION STUDY IN A MULTIPLE DISK CENTRIFUGALARTIFICIAL VENTRICLE

Flow patterns in a multiple disk centrifugal pump were analyzed so tha t the device could be incorporated as a ventricular assist or a bridge -to-transplant device. The pump operates either in pulsatile or steady flow modes with the ability to change modes within a fraction of a se cond. The pump was tested on a mock circulatory system consisting of a n arterial fluid capacitor, a systemic resistor, and a venous capacito r. Arterial volume flow rate, arterial pressure, inlet (venous) pressu re, and pump rotation speed are continually monitored. A glycerin/wate r solution is used as a blood analog. Flow visualization was performed with a 3 mW yellow laser, sheet lens, neutrally buoyant amberlite par ticles, and both still and motion picture photography. Flow patterns m atched theoretical predictions very well; inlet flow spread radially o utward through the disk annular spaces while propelled by shear and ce ntrifugal forces.