Stationary pipe network modeling

We have conducted steady-state pipe network modeling for several partners, using both our proprietary code (the Staci program) and the EPANET software. These calculations analyze the steady-state behavior of pipe networks, including branch flows, flow velocities, nodal pressures, water levels in open channels, water age (residence time), and chlorine concentration distribution. Additionally, our proprietary program runs as background support for our partner’s geographic information system, allowing the immediate assessment of any operational changes to the network through automatic simulation.

Partners: Budapest Metropolitan Water Works, Sopron Water Works Ltd.

Transient pipe network modeling

At the request of our partner, the Department examined the impact of large consumers on the hydraulic systems of Hungarian cities, focusing especially on transient phenomena in the planned water network. The modeling was divided into two main parts: the sudden shutdown and startup of pumps, and the abrupt cessation of industrial consumption. Special attention was given to the minimum (below atmospheric pressure) and maximum (10 bar) pressure levels occurring in individual pipelines. In the first case, infiltration (contamination from groundwater), pipe collapse, or even fluid column splitting may occur, while high pressures can lead to pipe bursts. These studies were carried out using computer simulations.

Partners: FŐMTERV Engineering Design Ltd., Sopron Waterworks Ltd.

Measurement of hydraulic machine characteristic curves

At our partners’ sites, many material transport and pumping tasks arise, often carried out using centrifugal or positive displacement machines. The pump characteristic curves H(Q), P(Q), and NPSH(Q) were determined either by on-site measurements or by transferring the pumps to our laboratory at BME. We have tested both small-scale pumps, such as automotive windshield washers, and large industrial pumps, for example those handling reduced crude oil. Our investigations have covered both standard series and custom-made designs.

Partners: Robert Bosch Ltd., Trans Lex Work Ltd., D-Tech Ltd., PannErgy Plc., Gömbmotor Ltd.

Pump impeller shape optimization

The energy consumed by fluid machinery represents a significant portion of the world’s total energy production, so even small improvements in efficiency can lead to substantial global energy savings. Moreover, the geometric design can be optimized not only for water but also for specialized fluids, including those with non-Newtonian rheology. In our related research, we have carried out measurements and numerical simulations to study and optimize the design of pump impellers for water applications.

Partners: Grundfos South East Europe Ltd., Elpumps Ltd.

Contrast agent mixing studies

In our work for a medical technology company, we investigated how contrast agents with different viscosities mix with blood when introduced into the bloodstream. To model this two-component fluid flow, we used two-dimensional fluid dynamics simulations. Special attention was given to the mixing quality during the injection of the contrast agent through a catheter. Our results helped to understand the factors influencing the mixing process, enabling our partner to improve the quality of medical imaging.

Partner: GE Healthcare

Kayak paddle development

In elite sports, the technical characteristics of the equipment used can be as important as the athlete’s performance. For our partner, we developed a kayak paddle geometry with improved hydrodynamic properties compared to those currently available on the market. This was achieved through numerical flow simulations combined with laboratory measurements for validation.

Partner: Best Paddle Sports Equipment Manufacturer and Distributor Ltd.

Testing of pipes, pipe fittings, and flow measurement systems

The primary purpose of testing flow components and fittings is to ensure compliance with the applicable national standards and to independently verify the data provided by the manufacturers. In addition, our laboratory performs loss coefficient measurements, as well as leakage and pressure tests, on behalf of our partners.

Partners: Euroflow Zrt., Kristály Kft., Elpumps Kft., Ometrys Kft., ASG Kft.

UV water purifier – disinfection equipment design

As a result of our research and design work, a custom-made UV water purification system was developed for the Csepel drinking water treatment plant to complement chlorine-based water treatment. We conducted hydraulic and CFD-based dose calculations, as well as our own laboratory measurements to estimate the arrangement and intensity of the UV lamps.

Partner: Metropolitan Waterworks Ltd.

Grants

Wilo Hungary Ltd.

Donation of pumps for teaching and research measuring equipment

Wilo Hungary Ltd. will continuously support our lab with pumps of various sizes and types from 2023. The donation is significant, nearly 30 machines, covering the main pump types used in industry, including small circulators to high-performance industrial pumps. The donated pumps will be continuously installed in the BSc and MSc student measurements, as well as in the lab’s large water circuit.

KSB Hungary Ltd.

Modern pump measuring station and component support for student measuring system

Thanks to KSB Hungary Kft., our lab has a modern, instrumented measuring station for measuring pump characteristic curves, which we use for student measurements and research. In addition to the initial support, the company continuously ensures the further development and maintenance of the measuring system. In 2025, it also supported the modernization of one of our student measuring devices with a modern frequency converter motor.

Pressair Ltd.

Providing an industrial compressor and building the entire laboratory ventilation network

Within the framework of the cooperation established in 2023, courtesy of Press Air Kft., the HVAC network of the HDR Laboratory was completely renewed. The main elements of the new HVAC system are the modern industrial BOGE piston compressor, the refrigeration dryer, the air tank and the network built over a length of nearly 100 meters, which provides air connection options at several points in all three laboratory hall sections. In addition to the machines and fittings, the company also provided us with the construction and installation.

Knorr-Bremse Brake Systems Ltd.

Providing financial support for measurement renovation and instrument purchase

Knorr-Bremse Brake Systems Ltd. has been providing significant financial support to our Department continuously since 2022. Thanks to the support, the partial or complete mechanical renovation of 7 student measuring equipment has already been completed, in addition, the installation of a high-performance pump system and the purchase and renovation of instruments have become possible. Furthermore, the financial support also helps to establish student and research scholarships.

Einhell Hungary Ltd.

Donation of mobile aggregates and hand tools

The Department entered into a sponsorship relationship with Einhell Hungaria Kft. in 2023, who donated two new mobile aggregates for the laboratory measurement of the BSc subject of Mechanical Engineering Basics, and also provided significant financial support so that we could equip our newly established workshop for our students and the Solar Boat competition team with safe and modern hand tools.

EMOS HU Kft.

Donation of a waterproof electrical distribution system

EMOS HU Ltd. supported the Department’s laboratory with a significant amount of IP protected electrical distribution boards in 2025. Thanks to the new IP protected distribution boards, we were able to significantly improve the occupational and accident safety risks of our wet laboratory.