Variable inlet guide vane device and compressor including same

Abstract

A variable inlet guide vane device for imparting motion to a fluid entering a compressor is provided. The variable inlet guide vane device includes a housing defining a fluid flow path. The housing includes first and second housing portions, a ring gear, and a plurality of guide vanes. The guide vanes include a stem, a gear, and a vane. The stem is disposed between the first and second housing portions, the vane is disposed in the fluid flow path, and the gear is disposed external to the housing.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 656,260, filed March 24, 2022, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The field of the disclosure relates generally to compressors, and more specifically, to variable inlet guide vane devices for use in compressors. [Background technology]

[0003] An inlet guide vane arrangement can be used to adjust the pressure and direction of a fluid flow at the inlet of a compressor, such as a centrifugal compressor. A conventional inlet guide vane arrangement includes a number of guide vanes arranged circumferentially around the fluid flow path. The vanes impart a swirling motion to the fluid flow, directing the fluid flow to enter the compressor at a proper angle to improve efficiency and performance. The guide vanes can be rotated to adjust the orientation of the guide vanes relative to the fluid flow path to meet the air intake requirements of the compressor at various operating conditions.

[0004] Each of the plurality of guide vanes is rotatable relative to a housing mounted near the inlet of the compressor. The wear-prone components of known inlet guide vane arrangements may be difficult to access for inspection and / or maintenance. Known inlet guide vane arrangements have one or more bearings that require maintenance, such as relubrication and / or periodic replacement, requiring compressor downtime. In some cases, access to the guide vanes requires disconnecting the guide vane housing from the compressor and disassembling the guide vane housing during repair or inspection. The disassembly process may significantly increase compressor downtime. Additionally, disassembling the housing to access the guide vanes increases the likelihood of handling and installation damage and shortens the overall life of the inlet guide vane arrangement. For example, disassembling the housing exposes the bearing surfaces to contaminants and debris, which may lead to etching and corrosion. Reassembling the plurality of guide vanes relative to the housing may also result in misalignment.

[0005] This section is intended to introduce the reader to various aspects of art that may be related to various aspects of the present disclosure, which are described and / or claimed below. This discussion is believed to be helpful in providing the reader with background information to facilitate a better understanding of the various aspects of the present disclosure. As such, it should be understood that these statements are to be read in this light, and not as admissions of prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In one aspect, an inlet guide vane apparatus includes a housing assembly defining a fluid flow path. The housing assembly includes a first housing portion and a second housing portion connected to the first housing portion and positioned axially upstream of the first housing portion. The first and second housing portions cooperate to define a plurality of guide vane openings extending radially through the housing assembly into the fluid flow path. A ring gear is rotatable relative to the housing assembly. A plurality of guide vanes are connected to the housing assembly. Each guide vane includes a stem extending from a first end to a second end. At least a portion of the stem is disposed within one of the guide vane openings. A vane gear is disposed at a first end of the stem and operably connected to the ring gear. The vane gear is disposed external to the housing assembly, and the vane is disposed at a second end of the stem and within the fluid flow path of the housing assembly. Each guide vane is rotatable relative to the housing assembly, and an orientation of the vane within the fluid flow path is selectively adjustable.

[0007] In another aspect, a compressor includes a compressor housing including an inlet and a drive shaft rotatably supported within the compressor housing. The compressor further includes an impeller connected to the drive shaft and operable to impart kinetic energy to an incoming refrigerant gas upon rotation of the drive shaft. An inlet guide vane arrangement is connected to the compressor inlet. The inlet guide vane arrangement includes a housing assembly defining a fluid flow path. The housing assembly includes a first housing portion and a second housing portion connected to the first housing portion and positioned axially upstream of the first housing portion. The first housing portion and the second housing portion cooperate to define a plurality of guide vane openings extending radially through the housing assembly into the fluid flow path. A ring gear is rotatable relative to the housing assembly, and the plurality of guide vanes are connected to the housing assembly. Each guide vane includes a vane gear operably connected to the ring gear and disposed external to the housing assembly, and a vane disposed within the fluid flow path of the housing assembly. Each guide vane is rotatable relative to the housing assembly such that the orientation of the vane within the fluid flow passage is selectively adjustable.

[0008] In yet another aspect, a method of assembling an inlet guide vane apparatus is provided that includes a housing assembly and a plurality of guide vanes. The housing assembly includes a first housing portion and a second housing portion. Each guide vane includes a stem extending from a first end to a second end. A vane gear is disposed on the first end of the stem and a vane is disposed on the second end of the stem. The method includes rotatably connecting a ring gear to the first housing portion and connecting the first housing portion to the second housing portion such that the second housing portion is positioned axially upstream of the first housing portion and the first housing portion and the second housing portion cooperate to define a plurality of guide vane openings extending radially through the housing assembly. The method further includes positioning the plurality of guide vanes relative to the second housing portion such that when the first housing portion is connected to the second housing portion, at least a portion of the stem of each guide vane is disposed within one of the openings of the guide vane and the vane gear of each guide vane is positioned external to the housing assembly. The method includes operatively connecting a vane gear of each guide vane to a ring gear.

[0009] There are various refinements to the features described in relation to the above aspects of the disclosure. Additional features may also be incorporated into the above aspects of the disclosure. These refinements and additional features may exist individually or in any combination. For example, the various features discussed below in relation to any of the illustrated embodiments of the disclosure may be incorporated alone or in any combination into any of the above aspects of the disclosure. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example of a variable inlet guide vane apparatus including first and second housing portions, a bearing, a ring gear, and a plurality of guide vanes. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a side view of the variable inlet guide vane device shown in FIG. 1. [Diagram 3]FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the variable inlet guide vane device shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 4] 2 is a perspective view of a second housing portion for use with the variable inlet guide vane apparatus shown in FIG. 1; FIG. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a rear or downstream view of the second housing portion shown in FIG. 4. [Figure 6] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the second housing portion shown in FIG. 4. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a plurality of guide vanes for use in the variable inlet guide vane apparatus shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a side view of one of the guide vanes shown in FIG. 7. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a top view of the guide vane shown in FIG. 8. [Figure 10] FIG. 9 is an exploded view of the guide vane shown in FIG. 8. [Figure 11] 2 is a perspective view of a first housing portion for use with the variable inlet guide vane apparatus shown in FIG. 1; FIG. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a front or upstream view of the first housing portion shown in FIG. 11. [Figure 13] FIG. 12 is a side view of the first housing portion shown in FIG. [Figure 14] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a ring gear used in the variable inlet guide vane apparatus shown in FIG. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is an end view of the ring gear shown in FIG. [Figure 16] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the ring gear shown in FIG. [Figure 17] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a bearing of the variable inlet guide vane device shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 18] FIG. 2 is a rear or downstream view of the variable inlet guide vane apparatus with the first housing portion, ring gear, and bearing disconnected and showing a plurality of guide vanes disposed within a second channel in the second housing portion. [Figure 19] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an assembled compressor for use with the variable inlet guide vane device. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 2-2 of the compressor of FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the drawings.

[0012] 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary variable inlet guide vane apparatus, generally designated 100. The variable inlet guide vane apparatus 100 (also referred to herein as inlet guide 100) is suitable for use in a compressor, such as a centrifugal compressor (see, for example, compressor 300 shown in FIGS. 19 and 20), and can improve the operating range and efficiency of the compressor by imparting a pre-swirl motion to a fluid flow F entering the compressor. The inlet guide 100 may be mounted near the inlet of the compressor, such that the fluid flow F exits the inlet guide 100 with a pre-swirl and enters the inlet of the compressor, such that the fluid flow F contacts the compressor impeller in the proper direction. Alternatively and / or additionally, the inlet guide vane 100 is mounted near the inlet of each stage of a multi-stage compressor.

[0013] FIG. 2 is a side view of the inlet guide 100, and FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the inlet guide 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the inlet guide 100 includes a first housing portion 102 and a second housing portion 104. The first housing portion 102 and the second housing portion 104 may be connected to form a vane housing assembly 106. The second housing portion 104 is positioned axially upstream from the first housing portion 102 with respect to the direction of fluid flow. The inlet guide 100 also includes a ring gear 108 rotatably connected to the housing assembly 106. In the illustrated embodiment, the ring gear 108 is rotatably connected to the first housing portion 102. The ring gear 108 may be rotatably connected to the housing assembly 106 by a bearing, such as bearing 110 (FIG. 3). In other embodiments, the bearing 110 may be omitted.

[0014] The inlet guide 100 further includes a plurality of guide vanes 112. Each guide vane 112 is rotatable relative to the vane housing assembly 106 and is operatively connected to a ring gear 108 such that rotation of the ring gear 108 causes each of the plurality of guide vanes 112 to rotate simultaneously. Each guide vane 112 is rotatable relative to the housing assembly 106 such that an orientation of the vanes 160 within the fluid flow path P of the housing assembly 106 is selectively adjustable. In some embodiments, the guide vanes 112 are rotatable together with the housing assembly 106.

[0015] The inlet guide 100 may also include one or more motors 174 operably connected to one or more of the guide vanes 112 to selectively rotate the guide vanes 112. The illustrated inlet guide 100 includes a motor 174 mounted to a motor mount in the second housing portion 104. The motor 174 is operably coupled to one of the guide vanes 112, also referred to as the driven guide vane, by a drive shaft 175. As described further herein, rotation of the driven guide vane by the motor 174 rotates the ring gear 108, which in turn rotates the other guide vane 112, also referred to as the driven guide vane. The motor 174 may include any suitable motor that enables the inlet guide 100 to function as described herein, including, but not limited to, an electric motor. In some embodiments, the motor 174 is a stepper motor. In other embodiments, motor 174 includes a synchronous motor that operates based on rotational feedback from one or more driven vanes, for example using a potentiometer or position sensor coupled to one or more driven vanes such that all vanes are driven to a desired angle. Motor 174 includes, but is not limited to, brushed or brushless DC motors, and synchronous AC motors.

[0016] 3, the first housing portion 102 includes a first annular wall 126 having a first inner surface 128 and a first outer surface 130. The second housing portion 104 includes a second annular wall 120 having a second inner surface 122 and a second outer surface 124. The first inner surface 128 and the second inner surface 122 define a boundary of a fluid flow path P that extends through the vane housing assembly 106. The vane housing assembly 106 includes a housing axis A that extends through the fluid flow path P. 106 The first housing portion 102 defines an outlet or flow outlet 132 for a fluid flow path P, and the second housing portion 104 defines an inlet 134 for the fluid flow path P. Fluid flow F enters the vane housing assembly 106 at the inlet 134, passes through the fluid flow path P, and exits the housing assembly 106 at the outlet 132. The fluid flow F is directed along the housing axis A. 106 The fluid flows through the fluid flow passage P in a direction generally parallel to the outlet 132. The fluid flow F exiting the outlet 132 is pre-swirled by a plurality of guide vanes 112, as described in more detail herein.

[0017] The vane housing assembly 106 includes an exterior region 136 that surrounds the first exterior surface 130 and the second exterior surface 124 and is generally radially outward from the housing assembly 106. In the illustrated embodiment, at least a portion of each of the plurality of guide vanes 112 is disposed between the first housing portion 102 and the second housing portion 104, and at least a portion of the guide vanes 112 and the ring gear 108 are disposed in the exterior region 136 of the vane housing assembly 106. Thus, at least a portion of the ring gear 108 and the guide vanes 112 are accessible (e.g., by an operator or technician) for inspection and / or repair without disassembling the inlet guide 100. As an example, an operator or technician may access the ring gear 108 and portions of the guide vanes 112 (e.g., vane gears, described in detail herein) without first disconnecting the first housing portion 102 from the second housing portion 104.

[0018] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the second housing portion 104. FIGs. 5 and 6 are a rear view and a cross-sectional view, respectively, of the second housing portion 104. The second annular wall 120 includes a downstream surface 140 and an upstream surface 142. The downstream surface 140 is generally annular in shape. The second annular wall 120 has a width W extending between the second outer surface 124 and the second inner surface 122. 120 The second annular wall 120 may have a height H 120 The second inner surface 122 may have a diameter D defined by the second inner surface 122 (FIG. 6). 120 A second fluid flow path P 120 In the illustrated embodiment, the second fluid flow path P 120 is roughly conical in shape and has a diameter D 120 is axis A 106 In another embodiment, the second fluid flow path P 120 is generally cylindrical and has a diameter D defined by the second inner surface 122. 120 is approximately constant. 120 is the length L 120 In the illustrated embodiment, the length L 120 is the height H of the second annular wall 120 120 Corresponding to housing axis A 106 is the second fluid flow path P 120 The upstream surface 142 is generally planar and may be attached to the compressor. Alternatively, the second housing portion 104 may be attached to any suitable structure near the inlet of the compressor. The dimensions of the compressor, e.g., width W 120 , height H 120 , diameter D 120 , and length L 120 can be tailored to the size of the compressor and the aerodynamic needs of the compressor.

[0019] 4-6, the second housing portion 104 includes one or more flanges 144 extending radially outward from the second annular wall 120. The flanges 144 may extend generally perpendicular to the second annular wall 120. The flanges 144 include one or more fastener openings 146 for receiving suitable fasteners (e.g., screws, bolts, etc.) for connecting the second housing portion 104 to the compressor.

[0020] 5, the downstream surface 140 includes a plurality of second channel surfaces 148, each of which defines a corresponding second channel 150. Each of the plurality of second channel surfaces 148 is aligned with the housing axis A. 106 In the illustrated embodiment, the downstream surface 140 of the second annular wall 120 is aligned with the housing axis A. 106 The downstream face 140 includes ten second channel faces 148 that define ten second channels 150 arranged in a radially symmetric pattern about the downstream face 140. In alternative embodiments, the downstream face 140 may include any number of second channel faces 148 that enable the inlet guide 100 to function as described herein. For example, in some embodiments, there are six second channel faces 148 that define six second channels 150.

[0021] In the illustrated embodiment, each of the plurality of second channel surfaces 148 is identical and has the same size and shape. In the illustrated embodiment, the second channel surfaces 148 are in the shape of a portion of a cylindrical surface. Thus, the second channel 150 is generally in the shape of a semi-cylinder. The second channel surfaces 148 have a second channel length L that extends from the second inner surface 122 to the second outer surface 124. 148 In the illustrated embodiment, the second channel surface 148 and the second channel 150 have an overall width W 120 In other embodiments, the second channel surface 148 extends over a width W of the second annular wall 120. 120The second channel surface 148 extends across only a portion of the second channel 150. The second channel surface 148 is sized and shaped such that the second channel 150 is sized and shaped to receive at least a portion of the guide vane 112 therein, as described in more detail herein.

[0022] In the illustrated embodiment, each second channel surface 148 includes a second channel surface 152 that defines a slot 154. The second channel surfaces 152 extend radially from the second channel surface 148, and the slots 154 extend from the second channel surface 148 to a depth D 152 (FIG. 4). The second channel surface 152 defining the slot 154 has a first end 156 and a second end 158 and a second channel length L extending therebetween. 152 (FIG. 5) The second channel surface has a slot width W 152 Further specified.

[0023] 7 is a perspective view of the plurality of guide vanes 112. Each of the plurality of guide vanes 112 includes a vane 160, a stem 162, and a vane gear 164. The plurality of guide vanes 112 are arranged in a radially symmetrical pattern that mirrors the radially symmetrical pattern of the plurality of second channel faces 148 in the second housing portion 104. In the illustrated embodiment, there are ten guide vanes 112 corresponding to the ten second channel faces 148. In other embodiments, the inlet guide 100 can include any suitable number of guide vanes 112 such that the inlet guide 100 can function as described herein. For example, in some embodiments, there may be six guide vanes 112 corresponding to the six second channel faces 148.

[0024] In the illustrated embodiment, the vane 160 is integrally formed with the stem 162. For example, the vane 160 and the stem 162 may be molded as one piece. In an alternative embodiment, the vane 160 may be formed separately from and connected to the stem 162. In the illustrated embodiment, the vane 160 is substantially triangular and includes a first vane side 166 and an opposing second vane side 168. The first vane side 166 and the second vane side 168 are substantially planar. The first vane side 166 and the second vane side 168 are connected at a trailing edge 170 and a leading edge 172. The trailing edge 170 and the leading edge 172 may be knife-like shaped. The plurality of vanes 160 define a fluid flow path P 120 1 and 2. The plurality of vanes 160 may be prevented from rotating to place the vanes 160 in a closed position in which the trailing edge 170 of each guide vane contacts or is adjacent to the leading edge 172 of an adjacent guide vane, as described herein.

[0025] The first housing portion 102 and the second housing portion 104 cooperate to define a plurality of guide vane passages P 160 Each of the plurality of vanes 160 defines a vane passage P 160 Each vane passage P 160 is part of the fluid flow path P. 160 1 and 2. The vanes 160 are circumferentially spaced about the fluid flow path P. The vanes 160 may be of any shape or size that enables the inlet guide 100 to function as described herein. Additionally, the shape and size of the vanes 160 may be selected based on the intended application of the inlet guide 100. For example, the size, shape, and angle of the vanes 160 may be selected based on the compressor type and configuration, operating conditions, and / or fluid type used with the compressor. Each guide vane 112 is rotatable relative to the vane housing assembly 106, thereby allowing the orientation of the vanes 160 within the fluid flow path P to be selectively adjusted.

[0026] 8 and 9 are a side view and a top view, respectively, of one of the guide vanes 112 shown in FIG. 162 The vane 160 is disposed at the first inner end 178 of the stem 162, and the vane gear 164 is disposed at the second outer end 176 of the stem 162. The stem 162 has a stem length L between the inner end 178 and the outer end 176. 162 The stem length L 162 is the second channel length L 148 When the stem 162 is disposed within one of the second channels 150, the stem axis A 162 is the housing axis A 160 is perpendicular to

[0027] In the illustrated embodiment, the guide vanes 112 extend circumferentially around the stem 162 and are spaced apart from the stem axis A. 106 The stopper 177 includes a stopper 177 extending radially outward in a direction generally perpendicular to the stem axis A. The stopper 177 is sized and shaped to fit within the slot 154 defined by the second channel surface 152. In the illustrated embodiment, the stopper 177 is generally rectangular in shape. The stopper 177 and the second channel surface 152 are sized and shaped to align the guide vane 112 with the stem axis A. 162 When the stopper 177 rotates relative to the first housing portion 102 and the second housing portion 104 around the 152 1. The slot width W 152 When the stopper 177 contacts the second channel surface 152, the guide vane 112 is aligned with the stem axis A. 162 The slot width W is sized and shaped so as not to translate along a direction parallel to the slot. 152 The stopper 177 has a slot length L 152 The stopper 177 is sized to provide sufficient clearance between the stopper 177 and the second channel surface 152 to allow translation along the

[0028] The stopper 177 extends only partially around the circumference of the stem 162. In the illustrated embodiment, the stopper 177 extends circumferentially around the circumference of the stem 162 at an arc angle of approximately 45°. In other embodiments, the stopper 177 may extend at an arc angle greater than or less than 45°. For example, in some embodiments, the stopper 177 may extend at an arc angle of 90° around the stem 162. In another example, the stopper 177 may extend at an arc angle of 30° around the stem 162.

[0029] The stopper 177 is configured to contact the stem axis A of the guide vane 112 when the stopper 177 engages a stop surface of at least one of the first housing portion 102 or the second housing portion 104, as described further herein. 162 Limit rotation around the

[0030] The vane gear 164 includes a top surface 180, a bottom surface 182, and a wall 184 extending between the top surface 180 and the bottom surface 182. The wall 184 is generally cylindrical (FIG. 8). The vane gear 164 includes a plurality of gear teeth 186 extending radially outward from the wall 184. In some embodiments, such as the illustrated embodiment, the vane gear 164 is a tapered gear. That is, the gear teeth 186 taper or angle radially inward or outward from the top surface 180 to the bottom surface 182. In some embodiments, the vane gear 164 may be a bevel gear. In some embodiments, the vane gear 164 may be a helical gear.

[0031] In the illustrated embodiment, the vane gear 164 is a partial gear with the gear teeth 186 extending only partially around the wall 184. In the illustrated embodiment, the gear teeth 186 extend at an arc angle of approximately 225° around the wall 184. In other embodiments, the gear teeth 186 may extend at an arc angle greater than or less than 225° around the wall 184. Further, in the illustrated embodiment, the gear teeth 186 are positioned generally opposite the stopper 177 on the stem 162. Thus, during operation, the vane gear 164 is positioned to engage the ring gear 108 while the stopper 177 is captured within the slot 154.

[0032] 10 is an exploded view of the guide vane 112. In some embodiments, the vane gear 164 is removably connected to the stem 162 of the guide vane 112. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the outer end 176 of the stem 162 is received within a central opening of the vane gear 164, connecting the vane gear 164 to the stem 162. In some embodiments, the stem 162 and the vane gear 164 may connect using a press-fit engagement when the outer end 176 is disposed within the central opening of the vane gear 164. Additionally and / or alternatively, an epoxy or other suitable adhesive may be used to connect the stem 162 and the vane gear 164. Further, in the illustrated embodiment, the stem 162 includes a key 188 disposed at the outer end 176, and the vane gear 164 includes a keyed boundary 190 that defines a keyed opening 189 sized and shaped to receive the key 188. When the key 188 is positioned within the keyed opening 189, the stem 162 and vane gear 164 frictionally engage and rotation of the vane gear 164 is transmitted to the stem 162. In some embodiments, the key 188 may be press fit into the keyed opening 189. In some embodiments, the key 188 may include a channel and the interface 190 may include a key sized and shaped to fit within the channel. Alternatively and / or additionally, the key 188 and interface 190 may include any suitable features that enable frictional engagement with the vane gear 164 and stem 162. In other embodiments, the vane gear 164 is integral with the guide vane (e.g., the vane gear 164 is integrally formed with the stem 162).

[0033] In the illustrated embodiment, the guide vane 112 includes an alignment feature 191. The alignment feature 191 receives a portion of a drive shaft of a motor, such as the drive shaft 175 of the motor 174, to allow the guide vane 112 to be operably connected to the motor. As such, the alignment feature 191 is complementary in shape to the drive shaft. For example, the alignment feature 191 may be keyed, semi-circular, star-shaped, or any suitable shape such that the alignment feature 191 may mate with the drive shaft to frictionally couple the drive shaft to the alignment feature 191. Alternatively and / or additionally, the alignment feature 191 may be sized and shaped to receive an alignment tool (not shown) to facilitate aligning and installing the guide vane 112 to the vane housing assembly 106.

[0034] 11 is a perspective view of the first housing portion 102. The first annular wall 126 includes a downstream surface 192 and an upstream surface 194. The upstream surface 194 is generally annular in shape. The first annular wall 126 has a width W that extends between the first outer surface 130 and the first inner surface 128. 126 The first annular wall 126 has a height H 126 (FIG. 13). The first inner surface 128 may have a first fluid flow path P 122 The first fluid flow path P 122 is the diameter D defined by the first inner surface 128 122 In the illustrated embodiment, the diameter D 122 is the diameter D of the second inner surface 122 120 The first fluid flow path P 122 is the height H of the first annular wall 126 122 The length L corresponding to 122 (Fig. 13) Housing axis A 160 is the first fluid flow path P 122 When the first housing portion 102 and the second housing portion 104 are connected to form the vane housing assembly 106, the first fluid flow path P 120 and the second fluid flow path P122 are aligned to form a fluid flow path P. The dimensions of the compressor, e.g., width W 126 , height H 126 , diameter D 122 , length L 122 can be tailored to the size of the compressor and / or the aerodynamic needs of the compressor.

[0035] 12 is a front view of the first housing portion 102. The upstream face 194 of the first housing portion 102 includes a plurality of first channel faces 196 that define a plurality of first channels 198. The plurality of first channel faces 196 are aligned relative to the housing axis A which mirrors the radially symmetrical pattern of the second channel faces 148 and the radially symmetrical pattern of the plurality of guide vanes 112. 106 In the illustrated embodiment, each of the first channel sides 196 has about the same size and shape and is substantially similar. In other embodiments, the first channel sides 196 are identical to the second channel sides 148. Each of the first channel sides 196 has a first channel length L 196 and the first channel width W 196 (FIG. 12). The first channel width W 196 may extend from the first inner surface 128 to the first outer surface 130 .

[0036] In the illustrated embodiment, the first channel surface 196 is in the shape of a portion of a cylinder. Thus, the first channel 198 is generally semi-cylindrical in shape. In the illustrated embodiment, the first channel surface 196 is approximately equal to the overall width W of the upstream surface 194. 126 In other embodiments, the first channel surface 196 extends only partially along the width of the upstream face 194.

[0037] As previously described, the stopper 177 is aligned with the stem axis A of the guide vane 112 when the stopper 177 engages one or more of the stop surfaces 195. 162In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the first housing portion 102 includes a first stop surface 197 and a second stop surface 199 ( FIG. 12 ). When the guide vane 112 rotates in a first direction (e.g., counterclockwise), the stopper 177 slides within the slot 154 until the stopper 177 engages the first stop surface 197, preventing or blocking further rotation of the guide vane 112. When the guide vane 112 rotates in a second direction (e.g., clockwise), the stopper 177 slides within the slot 154 until the stopper 177 engages the second stop surface 199, preventing or blocking further rotation of the guide vane 112.

[0038] In some embodiments, the contact between the stopper 177 and the stopper surface 195 functions as a stopper for the stepper motor. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the stopper 177 is disposed within the slot 154, and as the guide vane 112 rotates, the stopper 177 moves in a direction parallel to the slot length L. 154 The guide vanes 112 may include a drive guide vane operatively connected to a motor and a number of driven guide vanes that rotate in response to rotation of the drive guide vane. In such an embodiment, the stepper motor may rotate the drive guide vane 112 until a stop 177 on one of the guide vanes 112 engages either the first stop surface 197 or the second stop surface 199, causing the rotational motion of all of the guide vanes 112 to stop and the stepper motor to stop.

[0039] In the illustrated embodiment, the slot 154, stop 177, and first and second stop surfaces 197, 199 are configured to allow the motor to rotate the guide vanes 112 a total of 90°. For example, the guide vanes 112 may be positioned in a first rotational position of 0°, or a neutral position, with the first vane side 166 or second vane side 168 of each guide vane 122 aligned relative to the housing axis A. 106and / or parallel to the fluid flow F entering the inlet 134. In the illustrated embodiment, the stopper 177 is located in the center of the slot 154 when the guide vanes 112 are in the neutral position. The stopper 177 and stop surface 195 are positioned such that the plurality of guide vanes 112 are positionable between +45° and −45° relative to the neutral position, with the first vane side 166 or the second vane side 168 being positioned relative to the housing axis A depending on the desired operating conditions. 106 and may be positioned at a desired angle relative to the fluid flow F entering the inlet 134.

[0040] In some embodiments, the second housing portion 104 can include one or more stop surfaces 195. For example, in some embodiments, the first end 156 and the second end 158 include a stop surface that interacts with a stopper 177. In such embodiments, the guide vane 112 rotates in either the first direction or the second direction until the stopper 177 engages the stop surface, preventing or arresting further rotation of the guide vane 112.

[0041] When connecting the first housing portion 102 to the second housing portion 104, each of the second channels 150 aligns with a respective one of the first channels 198, and the first channels 198 and the second channels 150 cooperate to form a plurality of guide vane openings 200 extending radially through the vane housing assembly 106 (FIG. 2). The boundaries of the guide vane openings 200 are defined by the first channel faces 196 and the second channel faces 148. Each guide vane opening 200 is generally cylindrical and sized and shaped to receive at least a portion of the stem 162 of one of the guide vanes 112 therein. The stem 162 of each guide vane 112 is rotatable relative to the first channel faces 196 and the second channel faces 148, and each guide vane 112 is aligned with a respective stem axis A. 1621 and 2. In some embodiments, the first channel surface 196 and the second channel surface 148 include plain bearings that facilitate rotation of the stem 162 relative to the first channel surface 196 and the second channel surface 148. Additionally and / or alternatively, the stem 162 and the first channel surface 196 and the second channel surface 148 may include suitable bearings that enable the inlet guide 100 to function as described herein. In some embodiments, the stem 162 and / or the first channel surface 196 and the second channel surface 148 may be impregnated with Teflon or other suitable lubricant. In an exemplary embodiment, the inlet guide vane 100 may be used with an oil-free compressor.

[0042] The first housing portion 102 and the second housing portion 104 may be connected in any suitable manner that enables the inlet guide 100 to function as described herein. In the illustrated embodiment, the first housing portion 102 is connected to the second housing portion 104 by a plurality of screws. More specifically, the first housing portion 102 includes a plurality of fastener openings 202 through the first annular wall 126, and the second housing portion 104 includes a plurality of fastener openings 204 that correspond to the arrangement of the plurality of openings 202 on the first housing portion 102. Each of the fastener openings 204 may include a threaded portion, such that a threaded bolt or screw (not shown) may be inserted into the opening 202 of the first housing portion 102 and threaded into the threaded portion of the opening 204 of the second housing portion 104. In other embodiments, any suitable fasteners may be used to connect the first housing portion 102 and the second housing portion 104 together to form the vane housing assembly 106.

[0043] The stem 162 of each guide vane 112 is disposed within one of the guide vane openings 200 of the vane housing assembly 106, the vane gear 164 is disposed within the exterior region 136 of the vane housing assembly 106, and each of the plurality of vanes 160 is disposed within the fluid flow path P. Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, each of the vane gears 164 is accessible by an operator for inspection and / or repair without having to disconnect or disassemble the first and second housing portions 102, 104. In embodiments in which the vane gear 164 is removably connected to the stem 162, the vane gear 164 can be easily replaced with another vane gear. For example, an operator can replace a worn or damaged vane gear 164 by disconnecting it from the stem 162 and connecting a new or repaired vane gear 164 to the stem 162. As previously described, the vane gear 164 and the stem 162 may be formed in one piece. Additionally, when the first housing portion 102 is disconnected from the second housing portion 104, all of the plurality of guide vanes 112 can be accessed simultaneously.

[0044] 14 is a perspective view of the ring gear 108. The ring gear 108 includes a first face 206, a ring second face 208, and an annular wall 210 extending therebetween. The annular wall 210 includes a ring inner surface 212 that defines a boundary of a ring opening 214. The inner surface 212 is sized and shaped such that at least a portion of the first housing portion 102 is received within the ring opening 214. In the illustrated embodiment, the ring gear 108 is rotatably connected to the first housing portion 102 and is rotatable relative to the first housing portion 102. In other embodiments, the ring gear 108 is rotatably connected to the second housing portion 104.

[0045] The first housing portion 102 includes a lip 216 extending radially outward from the first outer surface 130 (FIG. 13). The lip 216 engages a surface 217 of the press fit bearing 110 when the bearing 110 is disposed about the first outer surface 130. The lip 216 engages the bearing 110 to prevent or inhibit axial translation of the bearing 110 relative to the first housing portion 102. Alternatively, when the ring gear 108 is rotatably connected to the first housing portion 102, the lip 216 can contact the first surface 206 of the ring gear 108 to prevent or inhibit axial translation of the ring gear 108 relative to the first housing portion 102.

[0046] 15 is an end view of the ring gear 108, and FIG. 16 is a side view of the ring gear 108. The second face 208 of the ring gear 108 includes a plurality of gear teeth 218. The gear teeth 218 of the ring gear 108 are sized and shaped to mesh with the gear teeth 186 of each vane gear 164 of the guide vane 112. Housing axis A 106 Rotation of the ring gear 108 about the vane axis A is transmitted to the vane gear 164, which rotates the guide vanes 112 within the guide vane openings 200 of the vane housing assembly 106. 162 The ring gear 108 further includes a feature 222 disposed on the inner surface 212. The feature 222 engages the bearing 110 and prevents the bearing 110 from axially translating relative to the ring gear 108. The feature 222 may span the periphery of the inner surface 212. In some embodiments, the feature 222 includes a lip.

[0047] The ring gear 108 and the vane gear 164 are located in the exterior region 136 of the vane housing assembly 106 such that an operator can inspect and / or repair the ring gear 108 without disconnecting the first and second housing portions 102, 104. Accessibility to the ring gear 108 and the vane gear 164 is beneficial in reducing the time required to inspect and / or repair the ring gear 108 and the vane gear 164. Additionally, accessibility to the vane gear 164 and the ring gear 108 without disassembling the first and second housing portions 102, 104 helps prevent exposure of the bearing surfaces between the first channel surface 196, the second channel surface 148, and the stem 162 to debris and / or contaminants.

[0048] In the illustrated embodiment, at least one of the guide vanes 112 is a driven guide vane 220. The driven guide vane 220 is operatively connected to a motor 174 (e.g., by a drive shaft 175), which drives the rotation of the driven guide vane 220. The rotation of the driven guide vane 220 rotates the ring gear 108, which transmits the rotation to the remainder of the plurality of guide vanes 112, referred to as driven guide vanes. Thus, the plurality of guide vanes 112 all rotate simultaneously. In some embodiments, the motor is a stepper motor. In some embodiments, the motor is communicatively connected to a controller, which sends one or more commands to the motor, which rotates the driven guide vane 220 to position the plurality of guide vanes 112 in a selected orientation relative to the fluid flow F.

[0049] 17 is a perspective view of the bearing 110. The bearing 110 may be disposed between the first outer surface 130 of the first housing portion 102 and the ring inner surface 212 of the ring gear 108. The bearing 110 facilitates rotation of the ring gear 108 around the first housing portion 102. In some embodiments, the bearing 110 is connected to the ring gear 108, e.g., the bearing 110 is press-fitted such that the bearing 110 is frictionally engaged with the ring inner surface 212. Thus, the ring gear 108 and the bearing 110 rotate relative to the first housing portion 102. Alternatively, the bearing 110 may be press-fitted into the first housing portion 102 such that the bearing 110 and the first housing portion 102 are frictionally engaged and the ring gear 108 rotates relative to the bearing 110 and the first housing portion 102.

[0050] Bearing 110 may be a non-lubricated bearing or a self-lubricating bearing. As such, bearing 110 does not require application of lubricant. In some embodiments, for example, bearing 110 is constructed from bronze and / or a bronze composite. In some embodiments, bearing 110 is bronze coated. Bearing 110 may be impregnated with a lubricant or may include one or more graphite plugs. In alternative embodiments, bearing 110 may include any suitable type of bearing 110 that enables inlet guide 100 to function as described herein.

[0051] In an alternative embodiment, bearing 110 may be omitted and ring gear 108 may rotate about first housing portion 102 without the use of bearings.

[0052] FIG. 18 is a rear view of the inlet guide 100 with the first housing portion 102, the ring gear 108, and the bearing 110 removed, illustrating the arrangement of the plurality of guide vanes 112 disposed within the plurality of second channels 150. As described above, the plurality of guide vanes 112 may be rotated in unison to change the orientation of the vanes 160 relative to the fluid flow F entering the inlet 134. For example, the guide vanes 112 may be rotated in unison to position the inlet guide 100 in any suitable position based on the operating needs of the compressor. For example, the guide vanes 112 may be rotated in unison to position the inlet guide 100 in a fully open position or in a neutral position. In the fully open position, the guide vanes 112 are positioned such that the first vane side 166 and the second vane side 168 of the vanes 160 are substantially parallel to the direction of the fluid flow F, such that the vanes 160 do not substantially impede the fluid flow F through the fluid flow passage P. In the fully open position, the vanes 160 align the fluid flow F to create a more laminar fluid flow F profile, thereby increasing the efficiency of the compressor. The plurality of guide vanes 112 can be rotated to position the vanes 160 in any suitable orientation relative to the fluid flow F and fluid flow path P. For example, a motor can rotate the drive guide vanes 220 in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction to adjust the orientation of the plurality of vanes 160. The position of the vanes 160 can be selected to increase the operating range of the compressor, including both surge and choke.

[0053] In some embodiments, sensors (not shown) may be attached to one or more of the guide vanes 112 to measure the rotational position of the guide vanes 112. The sensors may be communicatively coupled to a controller. The controller may use feedback received from the sensors to determine instructions to the motor. In some embodiments, one or more sensors may be used to measure the rotational speed of the guide vanes 112. For example, the guide vanes 112 may rotate at a rotational speed of 1 revolution per minute (rpm) or less.

[0054] 19 and 20 are perspective and cross-sectional views, respectively, of a compressor 300 suitable for use with the inlet guide 100 described herein. The compressor 300 is shown in the form of a two-stage centrifugal compressor. The compressor 300 generally includes an outer compressor housing 302 forming at least one sealed cavity in which the stages of refrigerant compression are performed. The compressor 300 includes a first refrigerant inlet 310 for introducing refrigerant vapor to a first compression stage, a first refrigerant outlet 314, a refrigerant transfer conduit 312 for transferring compressed refrigerant from the first compression stage to a second compression stage, a second refrigerant inlet 318 for introducing refrigerant vapor to the second compression stage, and a second refrigerant outlet (not shown in FIG. 20). The inlet guide 100 may be positioned near the first refrigerant inlet 310. For example, the outlet 132 to the fluid flow path P may be positioned to be aligned with the first refrigerant inlet 310. The refrigerant transfer conduit 312 is operatively connected at opposing ends to a first refrigerant outlet 314 and a second refrigerant inlet 318, respectively. The second refrigerant outlet delivers compressed refrigerant from the second compression stage to a cooling system in which the compressor 300 is incorporated. The refrigerant transfer conduit 312 may further include a refrigerant bleed (not shown in FIG. 20) for adding or removing refrigerant as needed from the compressor 300.

[0055] Referring to FIG. 20, the compressor outer housing 302 encloses a first compression stage 324 and a second compression stage 326 at opposite ends of the compressor 300. The first compression stage 324 includes a first stage impeller 306 configured to impart kinetic energy to a refrigerant gas entering through a first refrigerant inlet 310. The kinetic energy imparted to the refrigerant by the first stage impeller 306 translates to an increase in refrigerant pressure (i.e., compression) as the refrigerant velocity slows as the refrigerant is transferred to a diffuser formed between the first stage inlet ring 301 and a portion of the compressor outer housing 302. Similarly, the second compression stage 326 includes a second stage impeller 316 configured to impart kinetic energy to a refrigerant transferred from the first compression stage 324 entering through a second refrigerant inlet 318. The kinetic energy imparted to the refrigerant by the second stage impeller 316 increases the refrigerant pressure (i.e., compression) as the refrigerant velocity slows as it travels through a diffuser formed between the second stage inlet ring 303 and the second portion of the compressor outer housing 302. The compressed refrigerant leaves the second compression stage 326 via a second refrigerant outlet (not shown in FIG. 20).

[0056] The first stage impeller 306 and the second stage impeller 316 are aligned along the drive shaft axis A. 304 The drive shaft extends from a drive shaft first end 330 to a drive shaft second end 332 and is aligned along a drive shaft axis A. 304 Furthermore, the drive shaft axis A 304 Extending through the center of gravity of the drive shaft 304. The drive shaft 304 is operatively connected to a motor 308 positioned between the first stage impeller 306 and the second stage impeller 316, and the motor 308 rotates the drive shaft 304 along a drive shaft axis A. 304The first stage impeller 306 and the second stage impeller 316 are both connected to the drive shaft 304 such that the first stage impeller 306 and the second stage impeller 316 rotate at a selected rotational speed to compress the refrigerant exiting the second refrigerant outlet to a preselected pressure. The compressor 300 may incorporate any suitable motor, including, but not limited to, an electric motor.

[0057] The inlet guide vane equipment embodiments described herein require simple assembly of a small number of parts. The inlet guide vane equipment embodiments described above include first and second housing portions, a ring gear and bearings, and a plurality of guide vanes. In the illustrated embodiment, the vane gear and ring gear of the inlet guide vane are both located in an exterior area of ​​the vane housing. Thus, these components are accessible to an operator to perform inspection and / or repair work. Specifically, an operator does not need to disassemble the inlet guide vane equipment to inspect and / or replace the gear of the guide vane. In one illustrated embodiment, the vane gear is selectively connected to the stem of the guide vane. Thus, the vane gear can be removed and replaced without the operator having to disassemble the housing, minimizing exposure of the bearing surfaces to contaminants. The bearing embodiments may be non-lubricated bearings or may be self-lubricating bearings. Thus, the bearings do not need to be lubricated for operation. The embodiments described herein include a relatively small number of parts, such as a two-piece "split housing," that allows an operator to quickly (e.g., in less than 10 minutes) disassemble and / or reassemble the inlet guide vane apparatus. Additionally, an operator need only use one tool to disassemble and / or reassemble the inlet guide vane apparatus.

[0058] As used herein, the terms "about," "substantially," "essentially," and "approximately," when used in conjunction with a range of dimensions, concentrations, temperatures, or other physical or chemical properties or characteristics, are intended to include variations that may exist at the upper and / or lower limits of the range of the property or characteristic, such as variations due to rounding, measurement method, or other statistical variations.

[0059] When introducing elements of the present disclosure or embodiments thereof, the articles "a," "an," "the," and "said" are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements. The terms "comprising," "including," "containing," and "having" are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements. The use of specific orientation terms (such as "top," "bottom," "side," etc.) is for convenience of description and does not require a particular orientation of the items described.

[0060] Although several exemplary embodiments have been described above, it will be understood that various changes, modifications, and improvements will be readily made by those skilled in the art. Such changes, modifications, and improvements are intended to form part of this disclosure and are intended to be within the spirit and scope of this disclosure. Although some examples presented herein include specific combinations of functions or structural elements, it should be understood that those functions and elements can be combined in other ways to achieve the same or different purposes in accordance with this disclosure. In particular, operations, elements, and features discussed in connection with one embodiment are not intended to be excluded from similar or other roles in other embodiments. Furthermore, elements and components described herein may be further divided into additional components or combined together to form fewer components to perform the same functions. Accordingly, the foregoing description and accompanying drawings are intended to be illustrative only and not limiting.

Claims

1. 1. An inlet guide vane apparatus, the inlet guide vane apparatus comprising: a housing assembly defining a fluid flow path, a first housing portion; a housing assembly including: a second housing portion connected to the first housing portion and positioned axially upstream of the first housing portion, the first housing portion and the second housing portion cooperating to define a plurality of guide vane openings extending radially through the housing assembly into the fluid flow path; a ring gear rotatable relative to the housing assembly and limited in axial translation relative to the housing assembly in a first direction; a plurality of guide vanes connected to the housing assembly; Each guide vane is a stem extending from a first end to a second end, at least a portion of the stem being disposed within one of the guide vane openings; a vane gear disposed on the first end of the stem and operably connected to the ring gear, the ring gear and the vane gear being accessible from outside the housing assembly; and a vane at the second end of the stem, the vane being disposed within the fluid flow path of the housing assembly; each guide vane is rotatable relative to the housing assembly such that an orientation of the vane within the fluid flow path is selectively adjustable, and the connection between the first housing portion and the second housing portion operably connects the vane gear of each guide vane to the ring gear; Inlet guide vane equipment.

2. 2. The inlet guide vane apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first housing portion defines a plurality of first channels and the second housing portion defines a plurality of second channels, each of the first channels being aligned with one of the second channels, and the first and second channels cooperatively defining the plurality of guide vane openings.

3. The inlet guide vane apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising a bearing, said ring gear rotatably connected to said housing assembly by said bearing.

4. The inlet guide vane apparatus of claim 3 , wherein the bearing is a self-lubricating bearing.

5. The inlet guide vane apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of guide vanes includes a driving guide vane and a plurality of driven guide vanes.

6. 6. The inlet guide vane apparatus of claim 5, wherein the drive guide vane is operatively connected to a motor that operatively rotates the drive guide vane, the rotation of the drive guide vane driving the rotation of the ring gear, and the rotation of the ring gear imparting rotation to the plurality of driven guide vanes.

7. 2. The inlet guide vane apparatus of claim 1, wherein each guide vane includes a stop extending radially outward from the stem, and wherein at least one of the first housing portion and the second housing portion defines a plurality of slots, each slot extending from a first stop surface to a second stop surface and sized and shaped to receive one of the stops therein.

8. 7. The inlet guide vane apparatus of claim 6, wherein the motor is a stepper motor, and contact between a stop and at least one of first and second stop surfaces stops rotation of the plurality of guide vanes and stops the motor.

9. The inlet guide vane apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the vane gear of each guide vane is removably connected to the guide vane.

10. A compressor, the compressor comprising: a compressor housing including an inlet; a drive shaft rotatably supported within the compressor housing; an impeller connected to the drive shaft and operable to impart kinetic energy to an incoming refrigerant gas upon rotation of the drive shaft; an inlet guide vane arrangement connected to an inlet of the compressor; The inlet guide vane apparatus includes a housing assembly defining a fluid flow path; The housing assembly includes: a first housing portion; a second housing portion connected to the first housing portion and positioned axially upstream of the first housing portion, the first housing portion and the second housing portion cooperating to define a plurality of guide vane openings extending radially through the housing assembly into the fluid flow path; and a ring gear rotatable relative to the housing assembly and limited in axial translation relative to the housing assembly in a first direction; a plurality of guide vanes connected to the housing assembly; Each guide vane is a vane gear operably connected to the ring gear, the ring gear and the vane gear being accessible to an operator from outside the housing assembly; vanes disposed within the fluid flow path of the housing assembly, each guide vane being rotatable relative to the housing assembly such that an orientation of the vane within the fluid flow path is selectively adjustable, and a connection between the first housing portion and the second housing portion operably connects the vane gear of each guide vane to the ring gear; Compressor.

11. 11. The compressor of claim 10, wherein the first housing portion defines a plurality of first channels and the second housing portion defines a plurality of second channels, each of the first channels being aligned with one of the second channels, and the first and second channels cooperating to form the plurality of guide vane openings.

12. The compressor of claim 10 , further comprising a bearing, wherein the ring gear is rotatably connected to the housing assembly by the bearing.

13. 13. The compressor of claim 12, wherein the bearings are self-lubricating bearings.

14. The compressor of claim 10 , wherein the plurality of guide vanes includes a driving guide vane and a plurality of driven guide vanes.

15. 15. The compressor of claim 14, wherein the drive guide vanes are operatively connected to a motor that operatively rotates the drive guide vanes, the rotation of the drive guide vanes driving rotation of the ring gear, and the rotation of the ring gear imparting rotation to the plurality of driven guide vanes.

16. 11. The compressor of claim 10, wherein each guide vane includes a stop, and wherein at least one of the first housing portion and the second housing portion defines a plurality of slots, each slot extending from a first stop surface to a second stop surface and sized and shaped to receive one of the stops therein.

17. 1. A method of assembling an inlet guide vane apparatus including a housing assembly and a plurality of guide vanes, comprising: The housing assembly includes a first housing portion and a second housing portion, and each guide vane includes a stem extending from a first end to a second end, a first vane gear disposed at the first end of the stem, and a vane disposed at the second end of the stem, and the method includes: rotatably connecting a ring gear to the first housing portion; connecting the first housing portion to the second housing portion such that the second housing portion is positioned axially upstream of the first housing portion, the first housing portion and the second housing portion cooperatively defining a plurality of guide vane openings extending radially through the housing assembly; positioning the plurality of guide vanes relative to the second housing portion such that at least a portion of the stem of each guide vane is disposed within one of the guide vane openings when the first housing portion is connected to the second housing portion; the ring gear and the first vane gear are accessible to an operator from outside the housing assembly, and the connection between the first housing portion and the second housing portion operatively connects the first vane gear of each guide vane to the ring gear. method.

18. The first vane gear of each guide vane is removably connected to the stem, and the method includes: removing the first vane gear from the stem of one of the guide vanes; 18. The method of claim 17, further comprising: connecting a second vane gear to the stem of the one guide vane without disconnecting the first housing portion from the second housing portion.

19. An inlet guide vane device, comprising: A housing assembly defining a fluid flow path, the housing assembly comprising: a first housing portion; a second housing portion connected to the first housing portion and positioned axially upstream of the first housing portion, the first housing portion and the second housing portion cooperating to define a plurality of guide vane openings extending radially through the housing assembly into the fluid flow path, and at least one of the first housing portion and the second housing portion defining at least one slot, the slot extending from a first stop surface to a second stop surface; a ring gear rotatable relative to the housing assembly; a plurality of guide vanes connected to the housing assembly; Each guide vane is a stem extending from a first end to a second end, at least a portion of the stem disposed within an opening of one of the guide vane openings, at least one of the guide vanes including a stop extending from the stem and sized and shaped to be received in the slot; a vane gear disposed on the first end of the stem and operably connected to the ring gear; a vane at the second end of the stem, the vane being disposed within the fluid flow path of the housing assembly; Each guide vane is rotatable relative to the housing assembly to selectively adjust the orientation of the vane within the fluid flow path. Inlet guide vane equipment.

20. An inlet guide vane apparatus as described in claim 19, wherein the ring gear and the vane gear are accessible from outside the housing assembly.

21. An inlet guide vane apparatus as described in claim 19, wherein the first housing portion defines a plurality of first channels, the second housing portion defines a plurality of second channels, each of the first channels being aligned with one of the second channels, and the first and second channels cooperating to define the plurality of guide vane openings.

22. An inlet guide vane apparatus as described in claim 19, further comprising a bearing, wherein the ring gear is rotatably connected to the housing assembly by the bearing.

23. An inlet guide vane apparatus as described in claim 22, wherein the bearing is a self-lubricating bearing.

24. An inlet guide vane apparatus as described in claim 19, wherein the plurality of guide vanes includes a driving guide vane and a plurality of driven guide vanes.

25. An inlet guide vane apparatus as described in claim 24, wherein the driving guide vane is operably connected to a motor that operably rotates the driving guide vane, the rotation of the driving guide vane drives the rotation of the ring gear, and the rotation of the ring gear imparts rotation to the plurality of driven guide vanes.

26. An inlet guide vane device as described in claim 25, wherein the motor is a stepping motor, and contact between the stopper and at least one of the first and second stopper surfaces stops rotation of the plurality of guide vanes and stops the motor.

27. ​​An inlet guide vane apparatus as described in claim 19, wherein each guide vane includes a stopper extending radially outward from the stem.

28. An inlet guide vane apparatus as described in claim 19, wherein the vane gear of each guide vane is removably connected to the guide vane.

29. A compressor, comprising: a compressor housing including an inlet; a drive shaft rotatably supported within the compressor housing; an impeller connected to the drive shaft and operable to impart kinetic energy to an incoming refrigerant gas upon rotation of the drive shaft; an inlet guide vane arrangement connected to an inlet of the compressor; The inlet guide vane device comprises: A housing assembly defining a fluid flow path, the housing assembly comprising: a first housing portion; a second housing portion connected to the first housing portion and positioned axially upstream of the first housing portion, the first housing portion and the second housing portion cooperating to define a plurality of guide vane openings extending radially through the housing assembly into the fluid flow path, at least one of the first housing portion and the second housing portion defining at least one slot, the slot extending from a first stop surface to a second stop surface; a ring gear rotatable relative to the housing assembly; a plurality of guide vanes connected to the housing assembly; Each guide vane is a stem extending from a first end to a second end, at least a portion of the stem disposed within an opening of one of the guide vane openings, and at least one of the guide vanes including a stop extending from the stem and sized and shaped to be received in the slot; a vane gear disposed at the first end of the stem and operatively connected to the ring gear; a vane disposed at the second end of the stem and disposed within the fluid flow passage of the housing assembly; Each guide vane is rotatable relative to the housing assembly such that the orientation of the vane within the fluid flow path is selectively adjustable. Compressor.

30. A compressor as described in claim 29, wherein the ring gear and the vane gear are accessible from outside the housing assembly.

31. A compressor as described in claim 29, wherein the first housing portion defines a plurality of first channels, the second housing portion defines a plurality of second channels, each of the first channels being aligned with one of the second channels, and the first channel and the second channel cooperating to form the plurality of guide vane openings.

32. A compressor as described in claim 29, further comprising a bearing, wherein the ring gear is rotatably connected to the housing assembly by the bearing.

33. A compressor as described in claim 32, wherein the bearing is a self-lubricating bearing.

34. A compressor as described in claim 29, wherein the plurality of guide vanes includes a driving guide vane and a plurality of driven guide vanes.

35. A compressor as described in claim 34, wherein the drive guide vane is operably connected to a motor that operably rotates the drive guide vane, the rotation of the drive guide vane drives the rotation of the ring gear, and the rotation of the ring gear imparts rotation to the plurality of driven guide vanes.

36. A compressor as described in Claim 35, wherein the motor is a stepping motor, and contact between the stopper and at least one of the first and second stopper surfaces stops rotation of the plurality of guide vanes and stops the motor.

37. A method of assembling an inlet guide vane device including a housing assembly and a plurality of guide vanes, the housing assembly including a first housing portion and a second housing portion, each guide vane including a stem extending from a first end to a second end, a first vane gear disposed at the first end of the stem, and a vane disposed at the second end of the stem, at least one of the guide vanes including a stopper extending from the stem, the method comprising: rotatably connecting a ring gear to the first housing portion; connecting the first housing portion to a second housing portion, the second housing portion being positioned axially upstream of the first housing portion, the first housing portion and the second housing portion cooperating to define a plurality of guide vane openings extending radially through the housing assembly, at least one of the first housing portion and the second housing portion defining at least one slot; and positioning the plurality of guide vanes relative to the second housing portion such that, when the first housing portion is connected to the second housing portion, at least a portion of the stem of each guide vane is disposed within one of the guide vane openings and the stopper is disposed within the slot. method.

38. The first vane gear of each guide vane is removably connected to the stem; The method comprises: removing the first vane gear from the stem of one of the guide vanes; 38. The method of claim 37, further comprising: connecting a second vane gear to the stem of the one guide vane without disconnecting the first housing portion from the second housing portion.

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