Variable inlet guide vane device combined with compressor end cap

Abstract

The inlet guide vane device includes a compressor end cap connectable to the main body of the compressor housing and a housing section connected to the end cap. The housing section and the end cap cooperate to define a fluid flow path and guide vane openings extending into the fluid flow path. The inlet guide vane device includes a ring gear rotatable relative to at least one of the housing section and the end cap, and guide vanes connected to the housing section and the end cap. Each guide vane extends through one of the guide vane openings and includes a vane gear operably connectable to the ring gear and disposed outside the housing section, and a vane disposed within the fluid flow path. Each guide vane is rotatable, thereby allowing the orientation of the vane within the fluid flow path to be selectively adjusted.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 186,273, filed March 20, 2023, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] The field of the disclosure relates generally to compressors, and more particularly to variable inlet guide vane devices in combination with compressor end caps. [Background technology]

[0003] Inlet guide vane devices can be used to adjust the pressure and direction of fluid flow at the inlet of a compressor, such as a centrifugal compressor. Conventional inlet guide vane devices include guide vanes arranged circumferentially about the fluid flow path. The vanes impart a swirling motion to the fluid flow, directing the fluid flow into the compressor at the 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 compressor's intake requirements under various operating conditions.

[0004] Each guide vane may be rotatable relative to a housing mounted near the compressor inlet. Wear-prone components of known inlet guide vane apparatuses can be difficult to access for inspection and / or maintenance. Known inlet guide vane apparatuses include one or more bearings that require maintenance, such as relubrication and / or periodic replacement, resulting in compressor downtime. In some cases, during repair or inspection, the guide vane housing must be removed from the compressor and then disassembled to access the guide vanes. This disassembly process can result in significant compressor downtime. Furthermore, disassembling the housing to access the guide vanes increases the likelihood of damage during handling and installation, shortening the overall lifespan of the inlet guide vane apparatus. For example, disassembling the housing exposes bearing surfaces to contaminants and debris, which can lead to etching and corrosion. Reassembling the guide vanes relative to the housing can 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 better understand the various aspects of the present disclosure. As such, these statements are not admitted as prior art, and should be construed in this light. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In one aspect, an inlet guide vane device for use in combination with a compressor housing is provided. The inlet guide vane device is configured to impart a pre-swirl motion to a fluid flow entering an inlet of the compressor housing. The inlet guide vane device includes a compressor end cap connectable to a main body of the compressor housing and defining an inlet to the compressor housing, and a housing section connected to the end cap. The housing section and the end cap cooperate to define a fluid flow path and guide vane openings extending into the fluid flow path. The inlet guide vane device also includes a ring gear rotatable relative to at least one of the housing section and the end cap. The inlet guide vane device also includes guide vanes connected to the housing section and the end cap. Each guide vane extends through one of the guide vane openings. Each guide vane includes a vane gear operably connectable to the ring gear and disposed outside the housing section. Each guide vane also includes a vane disposed within the fluid flow path. Each guide vane is rotatable relative to the housing portion and the end cap, thereby allowing the orientation of the vane within the fluid flow path to be selectively adjusted.

[0007] In another aspect, a compressor is provided. The compressor includes a compressor housing and a drive shaft rotatably supported within the compressor housing. The compressor housing includes a body and an end cap connected to an end of the body. The end cap defines an inlet to the compressor housing. The compressor also includes an impeller connected to the drive shaft and operative to impart kinetic energy to a fluid flow entering the inlet upon rotation of the drive shaft. The compressor also includes an inlet guide vane device coupled to the end cap of the compressor housing. The inlet guide vane device includes a housing portion connected to the end cap and positioned axially downstream of the end cap. The end cap and housing portion cooperate to define a fluid flow path and guide vane openings extending into the fluid flow path. The inlet guide vane device includes a ring gear rotatable relative to at least one of the housing portion and the end cap, and guide vanes connected to the housing portion and the end cap. Each guide vane extends through one guide vane opening. Each guide vane includes a vane gear operatively connected to the ring gear and disposed externally of the housing portion, and each guide vane also includes a vane disposed within the fluid flow path, and each guide vane is rotatable relative to the housing portion, thereby selectively adjusting the orientation of the vane within the fluid flow path.

[0008] In another aspect, a method for assembling a compressor is provided. The compressor includes a compressor housing having a body and end caps connected to ends of the body, and an inlet guide vane arrangement combined with the end caps. The inlet guide vane arrangement includes a housing portion and guide vanes. Each guide vane includes a vane gear and a vane. The method includes assembling the inlet guide vane arrangement by rotatably connecting a ring gear to one of the housing portion and the end cap; connecting the housing portion to the end cap, whereby the housing portion and the end cap cooperate to define a fluid flow path and guide vane openings extending into the fluid flow path; positioning the guide vanes relative to the other of the housing portion and the end cap such that, when the housing portion and the end cap are connected, each guide vane extends through one of the guide vane openings and a vane of each vane gear is positioned within the fluid flow path; and operably connecting the vane gear of each guide vane to the ring gear. The method also includes positioning an inlet guide vane device within a body of the compressor housing and connecting an end cap to an end of the body to define an inlet of the compressor housing fluidly connected to the fluid flow path.

[0009] Various refinements exist in the features described in connection with the above-described aspects of the present disclosure. Additional features may also be incorporated into the above-described aspects of the present disclosure. These refinements and additional features may exist individually or in any combination. For example, various features discussed below in connection with any of the illustrated embodiments of the present disclosure may be incorporated into any of the above-described aspects of the present disclosure, alone or in any combination. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary variable inlet guide vane apparatus including first and second housing portions, a bearing, a ring gear, and a guide vane. FIG. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a side view of the variable inlet guide vane device shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 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 section used in the variable inlet guide vane apparatus shown in FIG. 1; [Figure 5] 5 is a rear or downstream view of the second housing portion shown in FIG. 4. [Figure 6] 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 guide vane used in the variable inlet guide vane device shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a side view of one guide vane 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 section used in the variable inlet guide vane apparatus shown in FIG. 1; FIG. [Figure 12] 12 is a front or upstream view of the first housing portion shown in FIG. 11. FIG. [Figure 13] FIG. 12 is a side view of the first housing portion shown in FIG. 11. [Figure 14] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a ring gear used in the variable inlet guide vane device shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is an end view of the ring gear shown in FIG. 14. [Figure 16] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the ring gear shown in FIG. 14. [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. 10 is a rear or downstream view of the variable inlet guide vane apparatus with the first housing portion, ring gear, and bearing disconnected, showing the guide vanes positioned within the second channel of the second housing portion. [Figure 19] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an assembled compressor used in a variable inlet guide vane device. [Figure 20]FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of the compressor taken along line 2-2 of FIG. 19. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is an enlarged view of a portion indicated by C300 in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 20. [Figure 22] 19 is an exploded view of the variable inlet guide vane device shown in FIG. 1 in combination with the compressor end cap of FIG. 19. [Figure 23] 21 is an enlarged view of the portion of the cross-sectional view of FIG. 20 designated C300, illustrating another exemplary inlet guide vane arrangement in combination with a compressor end cap. [Figure 24] 24 is an exploded view of an exemplary inlet guide vane apparatus in combination with the end cap shown in FIG. 23. Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the views. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary variable inlet guide vane device, generally designated 100. The variable inlet guide vane device 100 (also referred to herein as inlet guide 100) is suitable for use in compressors, such as centrifugal compressors (see, for example, compressor 300 shown in FIGS. 19 and 20), to improve the operating range and efficiency of the compressor by imparting a pre-swirling motion to a fluid flow F entering the compressor. The inlet guide 100 can be mounted near the inlet of the compressor, such that the fluid flow F exits the inlet guide 100 and enters the compressor inlet with a pre-swirling motion, thereby ensuring that the fluid flow F contacts the compressor impeller in the proper direction. Alternatively and / or additionally, the inlet guide vane 100 can be mounted near the inlet of each stage of a multi-stage compressor.

[0012] FIG. 2 is a side view of inlet guide 100, and FIG. 3 is an exploded view of inlet guide 100. In the illustrated embodiment, 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 of the first housing portion 102 relative to the direction of fluid flow. Inlet guide 100 also includes a ring gear 108 rotatably connected to housing assembly 106. In the illustrated embodiment, the ring gear 108 is rotatably connected to first housing portion 102. The ring gear 108 may be rotatably connected to housing assembly 106 by a bearing, such as bearing 110 ( FIG. 3 ). In other embodiments, bearing 110 may be omitted. Directional terms such as "radial" and "axial" used in describing elements and features of the inlet guide 100 refer to the housing axis A of the vane housing assembly 106. 106 is used as a reference and is used for ease of explanation only. The entrance guide 100 is not limited to any particular orientation.

[0013] The inlet guide 100 further includes guide vanes 112. Each guide vane 112 is rotatable relative to the vane housing assembly 106 and operatively connected to the ring gear 108, such that rotation of the ring gear 108 causes each guide vane 112 to rotate in union. Because each guide vane 112 is rotatable relative to the housing assembly 106, the orientation of the vanes 112 within the fluid flow path P of the housing assembly 106 is selectively adjustable. In some embodiments, the guide vanes 112 are rotatable in union relative to the housing assembly 106.

[0014] The inlet guide 100 may also include one or more motors 174 operably connected to one or more guide vanes 112 to selectively rotate the guide vanes 112. The illustrated inlet guide 100 includes a motor 174 mounted to a motor mount on the second housing portion 104. The motor 174 is operably coupled to one guide vane 112, also referred to as the drive guide vane, by a drive shaft 175. As described further herein, rotation of the drive guide vane by the motor 174 causes rotation of the ring gear 108, which in turn causes rotation of the other guide vanes 112, also referred to as the driven guide vanes. 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, thereby ensuring that all vanes are driven to the desired angle. Motor 174 can include, for example, but is not limited to, brushed or brushless DC motors and synchronous AC motors.

[0015] 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 for a fluid flow path P extending through the vane housing assembly 106. The vane housing assembly 106 is defined by a housing axis A extending through the fluid flow path P. 106The 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. A fluid flow F enters the vane housing assembly 106 at the inlet 134, passes through the fluid flow path P, and exits at the outlet 132 of the housing assembly 106. 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 flow direction of the fluid. The fluid flow F exiting the outlet 132 is pre-swirled by the guide vanes 112, as described in more detail herein.

[0016] The vane housing assembly 106 surrounds the first outer surface 130 and the second outer surface 124 and includes an outer region 136 located generally radially outward from the housing assembly 106. In the illustrated embodiment, at least a portion of each guide vane 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 outer 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 having to disassemble the inlet guide 100. As an example, an operator or technician can access portions of the ring gear 108 and the guide vanes 112 (e.g., vane gears, described in more detail herein) without first disconnecting the first housing portion 102 from the second housing portion 104.

[0017] Figure 4 is a perspective view of the second housing portion 104. Figures 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 120The 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 including 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 106 132 from the inlet 134 to the outlet 132. 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 compressor size and aerodynamic requirements of the compressor.

[0018] 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.

[0019] 5, the downstream surface 140 includes second channel surfaces 148, each of which defines a corresponding second channel 150. Each second channel surface 148 is aligned with the housing axis A. 106In the illustrated embodiment, the downstream surface 140 of the second annular wall 120 is aligned with the housing axis A. 106 Inlet guide 100 includes ten second channel surfaces 148 that define ten second channels 150 arranged in a radially symmetric pattern about downstream surface 140. In alternative embodiments, downstream surface 140 may include any number of second channel surfaces 148 that enable inlet guide 100 to function as described herein. For example, in some embodiments, there are six second channel surfaces 148 that define six second channels 150.

[0020] In the illustrated embodiment, each second channel surface 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 segment of a cylindrical surface. Thus, the second channel 150 is generally semi-cylindrical in shape. 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 a width W of the second annular wall 120. 120 In other embodiments, the second channel surface 148 extends the entire width W of the second annular wall 120. 120 As described in more detail herein, second channel surface 148 is sized and shaped to allow second channel 150 to accommodate at least a portion of guide vane 112.

[0021] In the illustrated embodiment, each second channel surface 148 includes a secondary channel surface 152 that defines a slot 154. The secondary 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 secondary channel surface 152 defining the slot 154 includes a first end 156 and a second end 158, with a secondary channel length L 152 (FIG. 5). The secondary channel surface 152 has a slot width W 152 Further specified below.

[0022] 7 is a perspective view of the guide vanes 112. Each guide vane 112 includes a vane 160, a stem 162, and a vane gear 164. The guide vanes 112 are arranged in a radially symmetrical pattern that mirrors the radially symmetrical pattern of the second channel surfaces 148 on the second housing portion 104. In the illustrated embodiment, there are ten guide vanes 112 corresponding to the ten second channel surfaces 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 six second channel surfaces 148.

[0023] In the illustrated embodiment, the vane 160 is integrally formed with the stem 162. For example, the vane 160 may be integrally formed with the stem 162 by molding it as a single, unitary piece. In alternative embodiments, the vane 160 may be formed separately from the stem 162 and connected or attached to the stem 162.

[0024] 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 and second vane sides 166, 168 are substantially planar. The first and second vane sides 166, 168 are connected by a trailing edge 170 and a leading edge 172. The trailing edge 170 and the leading edge 172 may be knife-shaped. The vane 160 defines a fluid flow path P 120 The vanes 160 may be selectively rotatable to selectively block or obstruct fluid flow F therethrough. The vanes 160 may be prevented from rotating to place the vanes 160 in a closed position, as described herein, in which the trailing edge 170 of each guide vane contacts or is adjacent to the leading edge 172 of the adjacent guide vane.

[0025] The first housing portion 102 and the second housing portion 104 cooperate to define a guide vane passage P 160 Each vane 160 defines one vane passage P 160Each vane passage P 160 is part of the fluid flow path P. 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. Furthermore, the shape and size of the vanes 160 may be selected based on the 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 the type of fluid used in 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 guide vane 112 shown in FIG. 162 The stem 162 extends from a first inner end 178 to a second outer end 176 along a stem length L. 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 inside one of the second channels 150, the stem axis A 162 is the housing axis A 106 is perpendicular to

[0027] In this illustrated embodiment, the guide vanes 112 extend circumferentially around the stem 162 and extend from the stem 162 to the stem axis A. 162 The guide vanes 112 include a stop 177 extending radially outward in a direction generally perpendicular to the stem axis A. The stop 177 is sized and shaped to fit within the slot 154 defined by the secondary channel surface 152. In the illustrated embodiment, the stop 177 is generally rectangular. The stop 177 and the secondary channel surface 152 prevent the guide vanes 112 from being aligned with the stem axis A.162 When the stopper 177 rotates relative to the first housing part 102 and the second housing part 104 around the 152 Furthermore, the slot width W 152 is sized and shaped so that the stopper 177 contacts the secondary channel surface 152, thereby causing the guide vane 112 to contact the stem axis A. 162 Prevents movement along a direction parallel to the slot width W 152 is dimensioned to provide sufficient clearance between the stopper 177 and the secondary channel surface 152 so that the stopper 177 extends beyond the slot length L 152 can move along.

[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 Restrict rotation around

[0030] The vane gear 164 includes an upper surface 180, a lower surface 182, and a wall 184 extending between the upper surface 180 and the lower surface 182. The wall 184 is generally cylindrical (FIG. 8). The vane gear 164 includes 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 slope radially inward or outward from the upper surface 180 to the lower 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 around only a portion of the wall 184. In the illustrated embodiment, the gear teeth 186 extend through an arc angle of approximately 225° around the wall 184. In other embodiments, the gear teeth 186 may extend through 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 mesh with the ring gear 108, while the stopper 177 is retained 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, when the outer end 176 is disposed within the central opening of the vane gear 164, the stem 162 and the vane gear 164 may be connected using a press-fit engagement. Additionally and / or alternatively, the stem 162 and the vane gear 164 may be connected using an epoxy or other suitable adhesive. 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 key 188 is positioned within keyed opening 189, stem 162 and vane gear 164 frictionally engage, and rotation of vane gear 164 is transmitted to stem 162. In some embodiments, key 188 may be press-fit into keyed opening 189. In some embodiments, key 188 may include a channel, and interface 190 may include a key sized and shaped to fit within the channel. Alternatively and / or additionally, key 188 and interface 190 may include any suitable features that enable frictional engagement between vane gear 164 and stem 162. In other embodiments, vane gear 164 is integral with the guide vane (e.g., vane gear 164 is integral with 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, allowing 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 key-shaped, semicircular, star-shaped, or any suitable shape that allows the alignment feature 191 to engage with the drive shaft and 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 attaching 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 extending between the first outer surface 130 and the first inner surface 128. 126 (FIG. 12). The first annular wall 126 has a height H 122 (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 cylindrical shape is a 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 106 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, a first fluid flow path P 120 and the second fluid flow path P 122are aligned to form a fluid flow path P. The dimensions of the first annular wall 126, for example, the width W 126 , height H 122 , diameter D 122 , and length L 122 can be tailored to the compressor size and / or the aerodynamic requirements 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 first channel surface 196 that defines a first channel 198. The first channel surface 196 is aligned with the housing axis A, which mirrors the radially symmetrical pattern of the second channel surface 148 and the radially symmetrical pattern of the guide vanes 112. 106 In the illustrated embodiment, each first channel surface 196 is substantially similar, having approximately the same size and shape. In other embodiments, the first channel surface 196 is identical to the second channel surface 148. Each first channel surface 196 extends over the 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 segment of a cylindrical surface. Thus, the first channel 198 is generally semi-cylindrical. In the illustrated embodiment, the first channel surface 196 has a 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 described above, the stopper 177 is aligned with the stem axis A of the guide vane 112 when the stopper 177 is engaged with one or more stop surfaces 195. 162In the illustrated embodiment, for example, first housing portion 102 includes first stop surface 197 and second stop surface 199 ( FIG. 12 ). When guide vane 112 rotates in a first direction (e.g., counterclockwise), stopper 177 slides within slot 154 until stopper 177 engages first stop surface 197, preventing or inhibiting further rotation of guide vane 112. When guide vane 112 rotates in a second direction (e.g., clockwise), stopper 177 slides within slot 154 until stopper 177 engages second stop surface 199, preventing or inhibiting further rotation of guide vane 112.

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

[0039] In the illustrated embodiment, the slots 154, stops 177, first stop surfaces 197, and second stop surfaces 199 are configured to allow the motor to rotate the guide vanes 112 a total of 90°. For example, the guide vanes 112 are configured such that the first vane side 166 or the second vane side 168 of each guide vane 122 is aligned with the housing axis A. 106and / or parallel to the fluid flow F entering the inlet 134. In the illustrated embodiment, the stop 177 is positioned in the center of the slot 154 when the guide vane 112 is in the neutral position. The stop 177 and stop surface 195 are positioned so that the guide vane 112 can be oriented between +45° and −45° relative to the neutral position, such that either the first vane side 166 or the second vane side 168 is aligned with 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] Second housing portion 104 can include one or more stop surfaces 195. For example, in some embodiments, first end 156 and second end 158 include stop surfaces that interact with stoppers 177. In such embodiments, guide vane 112 rotates in either the first direction or the second direction until stoppers 177 engage the stop surfaces, preventing or arresting further rotation of guide vane 112.

[0041] When the first housing portion 102 is connected to the second housing portion 104, each second channel 150 is aligned with each first channel 198, and the first and second channels 198 and 150 cooperate to form guide vane openings 200 that extend radially through the vane housing assembly 106 (FIG. 2). The boundaries of the guide vane openings 200 are defined by the first channel surfaces 196 and the second channel surfaces 148. Each guide vane opening 200 is generally cylindrical and is sized and shaped to receive at least a portion of the stem 162 of one of the guide vanes 112. The stem 162 of each guide vane 112 is rotatable relative to the first and second channel surfaces 196 and 148, such that each guide vane 112 is oriented along its respective stem axis A within one of the guide vane openings 200. 162In some embodiments, first channel surface 196 and second channel surface 148 include plain bearings to facilitate rotation of stem 162 relative to first channel surface 196 and second channel surface 148. Additionally and / or alternatively, stem 162, first channel surface 196, and second channel surface 148 may include suitable bearings that enable inlet guide 100 to function as described herein. In some embodiments, stem 162 and / or first channel surface 196 and second channel surface 148 may be impregnated with Teflon or other suitable lubricant. In an exemplary embodiment, inlet guide 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 threads. More specifically, the first housing portion 102 includes fastener openings 202 extending through the first annular wall 126, and the second housing portion 104 includes fastener openings 204 that correspond to the placement of the openings 202 in the first housing portion 102. Each fastener opening 204 includes threads such that a threaded bolt or screw (not shown) can be inserted through the opening 202 in the first housing portion 102 and threaded into the threads of the opening 204 in the second housing portion 104. In other embodiments, the first housing portion 102 and the second housing portion 104 may be connected using any suitable fasteners to connect the first housing portion 102 and the second housing portion 104 to one another to form the vane housing assembly 106.

[0043] When the stem 162 of each guide vane 112 is positioned within one guide vane opening of the vane housing assembly 106, the vane gear 164 is positioned in the exterior region 136 of the vane housing assembly 106, and each vane 160 is positioned within the fluid flow path P. Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, each vane gear 164 is accessible by an operator for inspection and / or repair without having to disconnect or disassemble the first and second housing parts 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 removing it from the stem 162 and connecting a new or repaired vane gear 164 to the stem 162. As described above, the vane gear 164 and the stem 162 can be integrally molded. Additionally, by disconnecting the first housing portion 102 from the second housing portion 104, all of the 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-shaped 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 can be 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 part 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 press-fit bearing 110 is disposed about the first outer surface 130. The lip 216 engages the bearing 110 to prevent or inhibit axial movement of the bearing 110 relative to the first housing part 102. Alternatively, when the ring gear 108 is rotatably connected to the first housing part 102, the lip 216 can contact the first surface 206 of the ring gear 108 to prevent or inhibit axial movement of the ring gear 108 relative to the first housing part 102.

[0046] 15 is an end view of the ring gear 108, and FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the ring gear 108. The ring-shaped second surface 208 of the ring gear 108 includes 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 The rotation of the ring gear 108 around the vane axis A is transmitted to the vane gear 164, which rotates the guide vanes 112 along the vane axis A 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 moving axially relative to the ring gear 108. The feature 222 may span the circumference of the inner surface 212. In some embodiments, the feature 222 includes a lip.

[0047] The ring gear 108 and vane gear 164 are located in the exterior region 136 of the vane housing assembly 106, allowing an operator to inspect and / or repair the ring gear 108 without disconnecting the first and second housing parts 102, 104. Accessibility to the ring gear 108 and vane gear 164 is beneficial in that it reduces the time required to inspect and / or repair the ring gear 108 and vane gear 164. Additionally, accessibility to the vane gear 164 and ring gear 108 without disassembling the first and second housing parts 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 guide vane 112 is a drive guide vane 220. The drive guide vane 220 is operatively connected to a motor 174 (e.g., by a drive shaft 175), which rotates the drive guide vane 220. Rotation of the drive guide vane 220 causes rotation of the ring gear 108, which is transmitted to the remaining guide vanes 112, referred to as driven guide vanes. Thus, all of the guide vanes 112 rotate in unison. 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, causing the motor to rotate the drive guide vane 220 and position the guide vanes 112 in a selected direction relative to the fluid flow F.

[0049] 17 is a perspective view of the bearing 110. The bearing 110 can be disposed between the first outer surface 130 of the first housing part 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 part 102. In some embodiments, the bearing 110 is connected to the ring gear 108, e.g., the bearing 110 is press-fitted to frictionally engage with the ring inner surface 212. Thus, the ring gear 108 and the bearing 110 rotate relative to the first housing part 102. Alternatively, the bearing 110 can be press-fitted into the first housing part 102, thereby frictionally engaging the bearing 110 and the first housing part 102 and allowing the ring gear 108 to rotate relative to the bearing 110 and the first housing part 102.

[0050] The bearing 110 may be a dry bearing or a self-lubricating bearing. As such, the bearing 110 does not require application of lubricant. For example, the bearing 110 is constructed of bronze and / or a bronze composite. In some embodiments, the bearing 110 is bronze coated. The bearing 110 may be impregnated with a lubricant, or the bearing 110 may include one or more graphite plugs. In alternative embodiments, the bearing 110 may include any suitable type of bearing 110 that enables the inlet guide 100 to function as described herein. In other embodiments, the bearing 110 may be omitted, and the ring gear 108 may rotate around the first housing portion 102 without the use of a bearing.

[0051] FIG. 18 is a rear view of the inlet guide 100 with the first housing portion 102, ring gear 108, and bearing 110 removed, illustrating the arrangement of the guide vanes 112 positioned within the second channel 150. As described above, rotating the guide vanes 112 in unison changes the orientation of the vanes 160 relative to the fluid flow F entering the inlet 134. For example, rotating the guide vanes 112 in unison can position the inlet guide 100 in any suitable position based on the operating needs of the compressor. For example, rotating the guide vanes 112 in unison can position the inlet guide 100 in a fully open position or 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, ensuring that the vanes 160 do not substantially obstruct the fluid flow F through the fluid flow path P. In the fully open position, the vanes 160 align the fluid flow F, creating a more laminar fluid flow F profile, thereby improving compressor efficiency. The 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 clockwise or counterclockwise to adjust the orientation of the vanes 160. The position of the vanes 160 can be selected to extend the operating range of the compressor, including both surge and choke.

[0052] 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 commands 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.

[0053] 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 that defines at least one sealed cavity within which stages of refrigerant compression occur. The compressor housing 302 includes a body 334 extending between a first end 336 and a second end 338. The compressor housing 302 also includes an end cap 340 connected to the body 334 at the first end 336. The end cap 340 defines a first refrigerant inlet 310 of the compressor 300, which introduces refrigerant vapor into the first compression stage. The compressor 300 also includes a first refrigerant outlet 314 adjacent to the first refrigerant inlet 310, a refrigerant transfer conduit 312 for transferring compressed refrigerant from the first compression stage to the second compression stage, a second refrigerant inlet 318 defined in a second end 338 of the body 334 for introducing refrigerant vapor into the second compression stage, and a second refrigerant outlet 320 (shown in FIG. 19 ). The refrigerant transfer conduit 312 has opposite ends operably connected to the first refrigerant outlet 314 and the second refrigerant inlet 318, respectively. The second refrigerant outlet 320 transfers compressed refrigerant from the second compression stage to a refrigeration system incorporating the compressor 300. The refrigerant transfer conduit 312 may further include a refrigerant bleed (not shown in FIG. 20 ) for adding or removing refrigerant from the compressor 300 as needed.

[0054] Referring to FIG. 20 , the outer compressor housing 302 encloses a first compression stage 324 adjacent a first end 336 of the body 334 and a second compression stage 326 adjacent a second end 338. The first compression stage 324 includes a first-stage impeller 306 configured to impart kinetic energy to refrigerant gas entering through a first refrigerant inlet 310. The kinetic energy imparted to the refrigerant by the first-stage impeller 306 is converted to an increase in refrigerant pressure (i.e., compression) as the refrigerant velocity decreases upon transfer to a diffuser formed between the first-stage inlet ring 301 and a portion of the outer compressor housing 302. Similarly, the second compression stage 326 includes a second-stage impeller 316 configured to impart kinetic energy to refrigerant transferred from the first compression stage 324 and entering through a second refrigerant inlet 318. The kinetic energy imparted to the refrigerant by the second stage impeller 316 is converted to an increase in refrigerant pressure (i.e., compression) as the refrigerant velocity decreases as it passes into a diffuser formed between the second stage inlet ring 303 and the second portion of the outer compressor housing 302. The compressed refrigerant leaves the second compression stage 326 through a second refrigerant outlet (not shown in FIG. 20).

[0055] The first stage impeller 306 and the second stage impeller 316 are aligned with 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 with a drive shaft axis A. 304 Furthermore, the drive shaft axis A 304 extends 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, such that the motor 308 rotates the drive shaft 304 along a drive shaft axis A 304Both first stage impeller 306 and second stage impeller 316 are connected to drive shaft 304, which causes first stage impeller 306 and second stage impeller 316 to rotate at a selected rotational speed to compress the refrigerant to a preselected pressure that is discharged through a second refrigerant outlet. Compressor 300 may incorporate any suitable motor, including, but not limited to, an electric motor.

[0056] The inlet guide 100 is positioned within the compressor housing 302 and is disposed adjacent to the first refrigerant inlet 310. The inlet 134 to the fluid flow path P is fluidly connected to the first refrigerant inlet 310, and the outlet 132 of the fluid flow path P is fluidly connected to the first compression stage 324. In this example configuration, a housing axis A extends through the fluid flow path P. 106 is the drive shaft axis A 304 In another embodiment of the compressor 300, the housing axis A 106 and drive shaft axis A 304 During operation, fluid flow F enters compressor 300 through first refrigerant inlet 310 and is guided through fluid flow path P at inlet 134 and into inlet guide 100. As discussed above, guide vanes 112 can be positioned within fluid flow path P (e.g., by orienting vanes 160) so that fluid flow F exits inlet guide 100 through outlet 132 with pre-swirl and enters first compression stage 324, where fluid flow F contacts first stage impeller 306 of compressor 300 in the proper direction.

[0057] Figure 21 shows the cross section of Figure 20. 300 2 shows in more detail a portion of the inlet guide 100 positioned within the compressor housing 302 adjacent the first refrigerant inlet 310, indicated by a dotted line 21. FIG. 21 shows a portion of the inlet guide 100 adjacent to and connected to the end cap 340 of the compressor housing 302. FIG. 22 shows an exploded view of the inlet guide 100, similar to FIG. 3 above, with the end cap 340 shown.

[0058] End cap 340 includes an annular flange 342 that defines a radially outermost portion of end cap 340. As shown in FIG. 21 , annular flange 342 is connected to body 334 of compressor housing 302 at first end 336. Annular flange 342 has holes 344 formed therein that align with corresponding holes 345 formed in body 334 at first end 336. Aligned holes 344 and corresponding holes 345 in body 334 receive fasteners 346 to connect end cap 340 to body 334.

[0059] An annular flange 342 extends radially outward from an annular sidewall 348 of the end cap 340. The annular sidewall 348 extends axially from a shoulder 350 of the end cap 340. The end of the annular sidewall 348 opposite the shoulder 350 is open. A recess 352 is defined by an inner surface 354 of the annular sidewall 348 and a concave surface 356. The concave surface 356 is defined by the shoulder 350. The shoulder 350 also defines an outer surface 358 opposite the concave surface 356. The end cap 340 also includes a neck 360 extending axially from the shoulder 350. A central bore 362 is defined by the neck 360 and extends through the concave surface 356. The central bore 362 defines the first refrigerant inlet 310. The outer diameter of the neck 360 is smaller than that of the annular sidewall 348. Shoulder 350 extends radially between and joins neck 360 and annular sidewall 348. Directional terms such as "radial" and "axial" used to describe elements and features of end cap 340 are relative to drive shaft axis A when end cap 340 is installed in compressor 300. 304 is used as a reference and for ease of explanation only. The orientation of the end cap 340 is not limited to any particular orientation.

[0060] When the inlet guide 100 is connected to the end cap 340, the inlet guide 100 is partially positioned within the recess 352. The upstream surface 142 of the second annular wall 120 of the second housing portion 104 faces the recess 356 in the end cap 340. As described above, the second housing portion 104 includes one or more flanges 144 extending radially outward from 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, and thus the inlet guide 100, to the end cap 340. In particular, at least a portion of the fastener openings 146 are aligned with corresponding openings 364 formed in the shoulder 350 of the end cap 340. The alignment openings 146 and the corresponding openings 364 receive suitable fasteners for connecting the second housing portion 104 to the end cap 340. A central bore 362 extending through the end cap 340 is aligned with the inlet 134 defined by the second housing portion 104 and fluidly connects the first refrigerant inlet 310 to the fluid flow path P. As shown in FIG. 21 , the central bore 362 and the inlet 134 are aligned with the housing axis A. 106 and drive shaft axis A 304 are aligned to the alignment of

[0061] 23 and 24, another example variable inlet guide vane arrangement 400 (also referred to herein as inlet guide 400) is shown. FIG. 23 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of inlet guide 400 installed in compressor 300, taken along section C of FIG. 30023 and 24, which show portions similar to those shown in FIG. 21. In FIG. 23, the inlet guide 100 and cap 340 (shown in FIG. 21) are replaced with an inlet guide 400 combined with an end cap 402. That is, the end cap 402 defines a portion of the inlet guide 400. FIG. 24 is an exploded view showing the inlet guide 400 combined with the end cap 402. Elements and features of the inlet guide 400 that are similar to elements and features of the inlet guide 100 shown in FIGS. 1-22 and described above are identified in FIGS. 23 and 24 using the same reference numerals as used in FIGS. 1-22. The end cap 402 has a similar configuration to the end cap 340 described above and shown in FIGS. 19-22, and includes additional features described below.

[0062] In this example, an end cap 402 is included in the compressor housing 302 (FIGS. 19 and 20), and the end cap 402 is connected at a first end 336 to the body 334 of the compressor housing 302. The end cap 402 defines the first refrigerant inlet 310 of the compressor 300, which introduces refrigerant vapor to the first compression stage 324 (shown in FIG. 20). The end cap 402 includes an annular flange 404 that defines a radially outermost portion of the end cap 402. As shown in FIG. 23, the annular flange 404 is connected at the first end 336 to the body 334 of the compressor housing 302. The annular flange 404 has holes 406 formed therein that align with corresponding holes 345 formed in the first end 336 of the body 334. The aligned holes 406 and corresponding holes 345 in the body 334 receive fasteners 346 to connect the end cap 402 to the body 334. The annular flange 404 extends radially outward from an annular sidewall 408 of the end cap 402. The annular sidewall 408 extends axially from a shoulder 410 of the end cap 402. The end of the annular sidewall 408 opposite the shoulder 410 is open. A recess 412 is defined by an inner surface 414 of the annular sidewall 408 and a concave surface 416. The concave surface 416 is defined by the shoulder 410. The shoulder 410 also defines an outer surface 418 opposite the concave surface 416. The end cap 402 also includes a neck 420 extending axially from the shoulder 410. The outer diameter of the neck 420 is smaller than that of the annular sidewall 408. A shoulder 410 extends radially between and joins the neck 420 and the annular sidewall 408 .

[0063] The directional terms "radial" and "axial" used to describe the elements and features of the end cap 402 are relative to the drive shaft axis A when the end cap 402 is attached to the compressor 300. 304 are used as a reference and for ease of explanation only. For example, the end cap 402 is not limited to any particular orientation.

[0064] End cap 402 also includes an inner wall 422 that extends axially within recess 412 and extends outward from concave surface 416. Inner wall 422 is part of inlet guide 400 and is defined by and integral with end cap 402. In particular, inner wall 422 forms a second housing portion of inlet guide 400 that is integral with end cap 402. Inner wall 422 is similar to second housing portion 104 of inlet guide 100 described above with reference to FIGS. 1-18, 21, 22, and 3-5. Inner wall 422 may be integral with end cap 402 by manufacturing techniques including, but not limited to, casting, molding, powder metal manufacturing, additive manufacturing or 3D printing, and machining (e.g., computer numerical control machining). The end cap 402 and the inner wall 422 may be made from any suitable material, including, for example, cast iron, aluminum, steel, and alloys thereof, and plastic, and any combination of these materials. The end cap 402 and the inner wall 422 may also be made from graphite or other suitable self-lubricating materials, which may be added to a casting or molding, for example. Making the end cap 402 and the inner wall 422 from a self-lubricating material may eliminate the need for bearings 110 to facilitate rotation of the ring gear 108 relative to the inner wall 422 and / or the first housing portion 102.

[0065] In this description of end cap 402 and inlet guide 400, elements and features of inner wall 422 that are similar to elements and features of second housing portion 104 of inlet guide 100 are labeled in Figures 23 and 24 with the same reference numerals as used in Figures 1-18, 21, and 22. Because inner wall 422 is integral with end cap 402, no flange is needed to connect inner wall 422 to end cap 402 (e.g., inner wall 422 does not include flange 144 that is included in second housing portion 104 of inlet guide 100).

[0066] The end cap 402 also includes a central bore 430 defined by a neck portion 420 and an inner wall 422. 10623 , the central bore 430 extends through the cap 402. The central bore 430 extends axially through the cap 402 and defines the first refrigerant inlet 310 of the compressor 300 and the boundary of the fluid flow path P of the inlet guide 400. That is, the central bore 430 defines a continuous passage between the first refrigerant inlet 310 and the inlet 134 of the fluid flow path P. The fluid flow path P of the inlet guide 400 is similar to the fluid flow path P described above for the inlet guide 100. The inner wall 422 surrounds a portion of the fluid flow path P and defines the inlet 134 of the fluid flow path P. As shown in FIG. 23 , the central bore 430 is generally conical in shape, and the diameter defined by the central bore 430 is oriented along the axis A. 106 , decreasing from the refrigerant inlet 310 to the inlet 134 of the inlet guide 400. In other embodiments, the central bore 430 can be generally cylindrical and define a generally constant diameter.

[0067] Similar to the inlet guide 100 described above, the inlet guide 400 is mounted adjacent the refrigerant inlet 310 of the compressor 300. Fluid flow F enters the inlet 134, flows through the fluid flow path P, and exits the inlet guide 400 with pre-swirling as described above. The fluid flow F enters the first compression stage 324 (shown in FIG. 20 ), where it contacts the first-stage impeller 306 of the compressor 300 in the appropriate direction. Alternatively and / or additionally, the inlet guide vanes 400 are mounted adjacent the inlet of each stage of a multi-stage compressor. Similar to the inlet guide 100, the inlet guide vanes 400 include a first housing portion 102.

[0068] When the inlet guide 400 is assembled, the inner wall 422 is connected to the first housing portion 102. The end cap 402, and therefore the inner wall 422, is positioned axially upstream of the first housing portion 102 relative to the direction of fluid flow F. The inner wall 422 and the first housing portion 102 are directly connected to form a vane housing assembly. Thus, the first housing portion 102 is directly connected to the end cap 402. The vane housing assembly is similar to the vane housing assembly 106 of the inlet guide 100 and is aligned with the housing axis A. 106It has.

[0069] Directional terms such as "radial" and "axial" used to describe elements and features of the inlet guide 400 are relative to the housing axis A. 106 are used as a reference and for ease of explanation only. The entrance guide 400 is not limited to any particular orientation.

[0070] Inlet guide 400 includes, similar to inlet guide 100, a ring gear 108 and guide vanes 112, in addition to first housing portion 102 and inner wall 422. Ring gear 108 includes the same features and elements as described above for inlet guide 100, with particular reference to FIGS. 1-3 and 14-16. Ring gear 108 is rotatably connected to first housing portion 102 and / or inner wall 422, and may be rotatably connected by bearings 110, as described above for inlet guide 100, with particular reference to FIGS. 1-3, 7-10, and 18. Guide vanes 112 include the same features and elements as described above for inlet guide 100, with particular reference to FIGS. 1-3, 7-10, and 18 (e.g., each guide vane 112 has a vane 160, a stem 162, and a vane gear 164). Each guide vane 112 is rotatable relative to the vane housing assembly of the inlet guide 400 and is operably connected to the ring gear 108, such that rotation of the ring gear 108 rotates each guide vane 112 in unison. Each guide vane 112 is rotatable relative to the vane housing assembly of the inlet guide 400, thereby selectively adjusting the orientation of each vane 112 within the fluid flow path P defined by the first housing portion 102 and the inner wall 422. In some embodiments, the guide vanes 112 are rotatable relative to the vane housing assembly of the inlet guide 400. The inlet guide 400 may also include one or more motors 174 operably connected to one or more guide vanes 112 for selectively rotating the guide vanes 112, as described above for the inlet guide 100.

[0071] The first housing portion 102 includes a first annular wall 126 having a first inner surface 128 and a first outer surface 130, as described above for the inlet guide 100. The inner wall 422, like the second annular wall 120 of the second housing portion 104, has a second inner surface 424 and a second outer surface 426. The first inner surface 128 and the second inner surface 424 extend through the vane-housing assembly and are aligned with the housing axis A. 106 The first housing portion 102 defines a boundary of a fluid flow path P that extends generally parallel to the housing axis A. The first housing portion 102 defines an outlet or outlet 132 for the fluid flow path P, and the inner wall 422 defines an inlet 134 for the fluid flow path P. A fluid flow F enters the inlet 134 of the vane housing assembly of the inlet guide 400, passes through the fluid flow path P, and exits the vane housing assembly of the inlet guide 400 at the outlet 132. The fluid flow F flows along the housing axis A. 106 The fluid flows through the fluid flow path P in a direction generally parallel to the inlet guide 100. As described above, the fluid flow F exiting the outlet 132 has a pre-swirl imparted to it by the guide vanes 112 included in the inlet guide 400, similar to the inlet guide 100.

[0072] The vane housing assembly of the inlet guide 400 surrounds the first outer surface 130 and the second outer surface 426 and includes an exterior region 136 located generally radially outward from the vane housing assembly. In the illustrated embodiment, at least a portion of each guide vane 112 is disposed between the first housing portion 102 and the inner wall 422, 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 of the inlet guide 400. 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 400. As an example, an operator or technician can access portions of the ring gear 108 and the guide vanes 112 (e.g., the vane gear 164 described above) without first disconnecting the first housing portion 102 from the end cap 402. 24, the annular sidewall 408 includes a notch 409 formed therein. The notch 409 provides a circumferential discontinuity in the sidewall 408, providing clearance for access to the ring gear 108 and portions of the guide vanes 112 (e.g., vane gear 164). The notch 409 can additionally and / or alternatively provide clearance for connecting one or more motors 174 to one or more guide vanes 112.

[0073] The inner wall 422 includes a downstream surface 428 having a configuration similar to the downstream surface 140 of the second annular wall 120, as described above for the second housing portion 104 with reference to Figures 4-6. Elements and features of the downstream surface 428 that are similar to elements and features of the downstream surface 140 of the second annular wall 120 are shown in Figures 23 and 24 and will be described below using the same reference numbers as used in Figures 4-6.

[0074] Unlike second annular wall 120, which includes upstream surface 142, inner wall 422 does not include an upstream surface because inner wall 422 is integrally formed with end cap 402. Downstream surface 428 in this example is generally annular. The inner wall has a width extending between second outer surface 426 and second inner surface 424, which is less than width W of second annular wall 120. 120 The inner wall 422 has a height extending between the downstream surface 428 and the concave surface 416, which is equal to the height H of the second annular wall 120. 120 The diameter of the second inner surface 424 may be approximately equal to the diameter D defined by the second inner surface 122 of the second annular wall. 120 (FIG. 5). The length of the portion of the fluid flow path P surrounded by the inner wall 422 corresponds to the height of the inner wall 422. The dimensions of the inner wall 422, such as width, height, diameter, and length, can be adjusted to suit the dimensions of the compressor 300 and the aerodynamic requirements of the compressor.

[0075] The downstream surface 428 includes the second channel surfaces 148 described above for the downstream surface 140 of the second annular wall 120. Each second channel surface 148 defines a corresponding second channel 150, and the second channel surfaces 148 are aligned with the housing axis A. 106 5. The downstream surface 428 may include the same number of second channel surfaces 148 as the downstream surface 140 (e.g., ten second channel surfaces 148 defining ten second channels 150). Each second channel surface 148 is identical and has the same size and shape, with the second channel surfaces 148 having the shape of a segment of a cylindrical surface. Thus, the second channels 150 are generally semi-cylindrical in shape. The second channel surfaces 148 have the same second channel length L as described above and shown in FIG. 5. 148, which in this example is the length from the second inner surface 424 to the second outer surface 426. The second channel surfaces 148 and second channels 150 may extend across the entire width of the inner wall 422, or across only a portion of the width of the inner wall 422. The second channel surfaces 148 are sized and shaped such that the second channels 150 are sized and shaped to receive at least a portion of the guide vanes 112, as described above. Each second channel surface 148 includes a secondary channel surface 152 that defines a slot 154. The secondary channel surfaces 152 extend radially from the second channel surfaces 148, and the slots 154 extend from the second channel surfaces 148 to a depth D 152 (shown in FIG. 4 ). The secondary channel surface 152 defining the slot 154 has a first end 156 and a second end 158 and a secondary channel length L extending therebetween. 152 (shown in FIG. 5). The secondary channel surface 152 includes a slot width W 152 (shown in Figure 5) is further defined.

[0076] The guide vanes 112 are arranged in a radially symmetric pattern that mirrors the radially symmetric pattern of the second channel surfaces 148 on the inner wall 422. The number of guide vanes 112 corresponds to the number of second channel surfaces. In this example inlet guide 400, there are ten guide vanes 112 corresponding to the ten second channel surfaces 148. The inlet guide 400 may include any suitable number of guide vanes 112 that enables the inlet guide 400 to function as described herein. For example, the inlet guide 400 may include six guide vanes 112 corresponding to the six second channel surfaces 148.

[0077] The first housing portion 102 and the inner wall 422 cooperate to define the guide vane passage P 160 (shown in FIG. 18). Each vane passage P 160 is part of the fluid flow path P. 160 are circumferentially spaced about the fluid flow path P. Each vane 160 is associated with one vane passage P 160, can be covered. The vanes 160 can be of any shape or size that enables the inlet guide 400 to function as described herein. Furthermore, the shape and size of the vanes 160 can be selected depending on the application of the inlet guide 400. For example, the size, shape, and angle of the vanes 160 can be selected based on the type and configuration of the compressor 300, the operating conditions, and / or the type of fluid used in the compressor. Each guide vane 112 can be rotatable relative to the vane housing assembly of the inlet guide 400, thereby selectively adjusting the orientation of the vanes 160 within the fluid flow path P.

[0078] Each guide vane 112 of inlet guide 400 has elements and features similar to those described above for guide vanes 112 of inlet guide 100, particularly with reference to Figures 7-10. Each guide vane 112 extends circumferentially around stem 162 and is aligned with stem axis A. 162 The stopper 177 includes a stopper 177 extending radially outward in a direction generally perpendicular to the stem axis A, a vane gear 164, and an alignment mechanism 191. The vane gear 164 may be removably connected to the stem 162 or may be made integral with the stem. When the stopper 177 engages a stopper surface of at least one of the first housing portion 102 or the inner wall 422, the stopper 177 moves in a direction generally perpendicular to the stem axis A. 162 1. The alignment mechanism 191 limits rotation of the guide vanes 112 about the vane housing assembly of the inlet guide 400. The vane gear 164 is positioned to engage the ring gear 108, while the stop 177 is captured in the slot 154. The alignment mechanism 191 receives a portion of a drive shaft of a motor, such as the drive shaft 175 of the motor 174, to operably connect the guide vanes 112 to the motor. Alternatively and / or additionally, the alignment mechanism 191 may be sized and shaped to receive an alignment tool (not shown) to facilitate aligning and attaching the guide vanes 112 to the vane housing assembly of the inlet guide 400.

[0079] The first housing portion 102 of the inlet guide 400 has the same elements and features as those described above for the inlet guide 100, particularly with reference to Figures 11-13. In particular, the first housing portion 102 includes a first annular wall 126 that includes a downstream surface 192 and an upstream surface 194. The first annular wall 126 has a width W extending between a first outer surface 130 and a first inner surface 128. 126 and a height H extending between the downstream surface 192 and the upstream surface 194. 122 The first inner surface 128 has a diameter D defined by the first inner surface 128. 122 and the height H of the first annular wall 126. 122 The length L corresponding to 122 A first fluid flow path P 122 The housing axis A defines the boundary of 106 is the first fluid flow path P 122 When first housing portion 102 and inner wall 422 are connected to form the vane housing assembly of inlet guide 400, first inner surface 128 and second inner surface 424 are aligned with housing axis A. 106 defines the boundary of a fluid flow path P extending therethrough.

[0080] 12, the upstream surface 194 of the first housing portion 102 includes a first channel surface 196. The first channel surface 196 is aligned with the housing axis A. 106 1, which defines first channels 198 arranged in a radially symmetrical pattern about the stem axis A, which pattern mirrors the radially symmetrical pattern of the second channel surface 148 and the radially symmetrical pattern of the guide vanes 112. The stopper 177 of each guide vane 112 is adapted to move in a radially symmetrical pattern about the stem axis A when the stopper 177 engages one or more stopper surfaces 195 of the first housing portion 102, as described above. 162 Similar to the second housing portion 104 described above for the inlet guide 100, the inner wall 422 may include one or more stop surfaces 195 that interact similarly to the stops 177 to limit the rotation of the respective guide vane 112.

[0081] The first housing portion 102 and the inner wall 422 may be connected in any suitable manner that enables the inlet guide 400 to function as described herein. For example, the first housing portion 102 may be connected to the inner wall 422 by screws or other suitable fasteners, as described above for connecting the first housing portion 102 and the second housing portion 104 in the inlet guide 100.

[0082] When the first housing portion 102 is connected to the inner wall 422, each second channel 150 in the inner wall 422 aligns with a respective first channel 198 in the first housing portion 102, and the first and second channels 198 and 150 cooperate to form a guide vane opening extending radially through the vane housing assembly of the inlet guide 400. The guide vane opening defined by the first housing portion 102 and the inner wall 422 is similar to the guide vane opening 200 described above and shown in FIG. 2. The boundary of the guide vane opening in the inlet guide 400 is defined by the first channel surface 196 of the first housing portion 102 and the second channel surface 148 of the inner wall 422. 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. The stem 162 of each guide vane 112 is rotatable relative to the first channel surface 196 and the second channel surface 148 such that each guide vane 112 is oriented along a respective stem axis A within one of the guide vane openings of the inlet guide 400. 162 The first channel surface 196 and the second channel surface 148 may be provided with plain bearings to facilitate rotation of the stem 162 relative to the first channel surface 196 and the second channel surface 148.

[0083] Additionally and / or alternatively, stem 162, first channel surface 196, and second channel surface 148 may be provided with suitable bearings that enable inlet guide 400 to function as described herein. Additionally and / or alternatively, stem 162 and / or first channel surface 196 and second channel surface 148 may be impregnated with Teflon or other suitable lubricant. Inlet guide vane 400 may be used in oil-free compressors.

[0084] When the stem 162 of each guide vane 112 is positioned within one of the guide vane openings of the inlet guide 400, the vane gear 164 is positioned within the exterior region 136 surrounding the first housing part 102 and the interior wall 422, and each vane 160 is positioned within the fluid flow path P. Thus, an operator can access each vane gear 164 for inspection and / or repair without disconnecting or disassembling the first housing part 102 and the interior wall 422. 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 removing it from the stem 162 and connecting a new or repaired vane gear 164 to the stem 162.

[0085] The ring gear 108 of the inlet guide 400 has the same elements and features as those described above for the ring gear 108 of the inlet guide 100, with particular reference to Figures 14-16. The ring gear 108 is rotatably connected to and rotatable relative to the first housing portion 102 and / or the inner wall 422. The ring-shaped second surface 208 of the ring gear 108 is provided with gear teeth 218 sized and shaped to mesh with the gear teeth 186 of each vane gear 164 of the guide vanes 112. The housing axis A 106 The rotation of the ring gear 108 around the vane axis A is transmitted to the vane gear 164, and the guide vanes 112 rotate within the guide vane openings of the inlet guide 400 along the vane axis A. 162The ring gear 108 further includes a mechanism 222 disposed on the inner surface 212. The mechanism 222 engages the bearing 110 and prevents the bearing 110 from moving axially relative to the ring gear 108. The ring gear 108 and the vane gear 164 are disposed in the outer region 136 of the inlet guide 400, allowing an operator to inspect and / or repair the ring gear 108 without disconnecting the first housing portion 102 and the inner wall 422. At least one of the guide vanes 112 is a drive guide vane 220, which is operably connected to a motor 174 that drives the rotation of the drive guide vane 220. The rotation of the drive guide vane 220 causes the ring gear 108 to rotate, which is transmitted to the remaining guide vanes 112, referred to as driven guide vanes. Thus, all of the guide vanes 112 rotate in unison. The motor 174 may be a stepper motor. The motor may be communicatively connected to a controller (not shown), which sends one or more commands to the motor, causing the motor to rotate the drive guide vanes 220 and position the guide vanes 112 in a selected orientation relative to the fluid flow F.

[0086] The inlet guide 400 may include a bearing 110 having the same elements and features as those described above for the bearing 110 of the inlet guide 100 with reference to FIG. 17 . The bearing 110 may be disposed between the first outer surface 130 of the first housing part 102 and the inner ring surface 212 of the ring gear 108. The bearing 110 facilitates rotation of the ring gear 108 around the first housing part 102. In some embodiments, the bearing 110 is connected to the ring gear 108, e.g., the bearing 110 is press-fit to frictionally engage with the inner ring surface 212. Thus, the ring gear 108 and the bearing 110 rotate relative to the first housing part 102. Alternatively, the bearing 110 is press-fit into the first housing part 102, whereby the bearing 110 and the first housing part 102 are frictionally engaged and the ring gear 108 rotates relative to the bearing 110 and the first housing part 102. Bearings 110 may be dry bearings or self-lubricating bearings and may include any suitable type of bearing 110 that enables inlet guide 100 to function as described herein. Bearings 110 may be omitted, and ring gear 108 may rotate about first housing portion 102 without the use of bearings. For example, first housing portion 102 and / or inner wall 422 may be made from a self-lubricating material (e.g., graphite), which may eliminate the need for bearings 110.

[0087] The arrangement of the guide vanes 112 within the second channel 150 of the inner wall 422 of the inlet guide 400 is similar to that of the inlet guide 100 shown in FIG. 18. As described above, simultaneous rotation of the guide vanes 112 changes the orientation of the vanes 160 relative to the fluid flow F entering the inlet 134. The guide vanes 112 can be rotated in unison to position the inlet guide 400 in any suitable position relative to the fluid flow F, such as a fully open position or a neutral position, based on the operating needs of the compressor 300. For example, the vane position 160 can be selected to extend the operating range of the compressor, including both surge and choke.

[0088] The described inlet guide vane apparatus embodiments are relatively simple and efficient to assemble with relatively few parts. The above-described inlet guide vane apparatus embodiments include first and second housing portions, a ring gear and bearings, and guide vanes. In the illustrated embodiment, both the vane gear and ring gear of the inlet guide vane are located in an exterior region of the vane housing. Therefore, these components are accessible to an operator for inspection and / or repair work. Specifically, an operator does not need to disassemble the inlet guide vane apparatus to inspect and / or replace the guide vane gear. In one embodiment, the vane gear is selectively connected to the guide vane stem. Therefore, an operator can remove and replace the vane gear without disassembling the housing, minimizing exposure of the bearing surfaces to contaminants. The bearing embodiments may be non-lubricated or self-lubricating, so that the bearing does not require application of lubricant for operation. The described embodiments require fewer parts, such as a two-piece "split housing," which allows an operator to quickly disassemble and / or reassemble the inlet guide vane apparatus (e.g., in less than 10 minutes). Additionally, the operator only needs to use a single tool to disassemble and / or reassemble the inlet guide vanes.

[0089] Embodiments of the inlet guide vane apparatus that are combined (e.g., partially integrated) with compressor components may provide additional advantages. In particular, the second housing section may be integrated with the compressor end cap as an axially extending inner wall of the end cap. The inner wall of the end cap defines the inlet of the inlet guide fluid flow path. The inner wall is directly connected to the guide vanes and the inlet guide first housing section. Integrating the inlet guide second housing section with the end cap reduces the number of parts required to assemble the inlet guide. Reducing the number of parts reduces stackup and improves geometric dimensional and tolerance accuracy. Furthermore, reducing the number of parts required to assemble the inlet guide reduces alignment errors between the parts. This also allows for faster assembly and disassembly of the inlet guide.

[0090] As used herein, the terms "about," "substantially," "essentially," and "approximately," when used in connection 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, for example, variations due to rounding, measurement method, or other statistical variations.

[0091] 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 orientational terms (e.g., "top," "bottom," "side," etc.) is for convenience of description and does not require orientation of the items described.

[0092] Having thus described several exemplary embodiments, it will be understood that various alterations, modifications, and improvements will readily occur to those skilled in the art. Such alterations, modifications, and improvements constitute a part of this disclosure and are intended to be included within the spirit and scope of this disclosure. While some examples presented herein include specific combinations of functions or structural elements, these functions and elements may be combined in other ways to achieve the same or different purposes in accordance with this disclosure. 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 to form fewer components to perform the same functions. Accordingly, the foregoing description and accompanying drawings are illustrative only and not limiting.

Claims

1. 1. An inlet guide vane arrangement for use in combination with a compressor housing, the inlet guide vane arrangement configured to impart a pre-swirl motion to a fluid flow entering an inlet of the compressor housing, the inlet guide vane arrangement comprising: a compressor end cap connectable to a main body of the compressor housing and defining the inlet of the compressor housing; a housing portion connected to the end cap, the housing portion and the end cap cooperating to define a fluid flow path and a guide vane opening extending into the fluid flow path; a ring gear rotatable relative to at least one of the housing portion and the end cap; a guide vane connected to the housing portion and the end cap; Each guide vane extends through one of the guide vane openings, and each guide vane has: a vane gear operably connectable to the ring gear and disposed externally of the housing portion; a vane disposed within the fluid flow path; each guide vane is rotatable relative to the housing portion and the end cap, thereby allowing selective adjustment of the orientation of the vane within the fluid flow path; Inlet guide vane equipment.

2. The inlet guide vane apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the ring gear and the vane gear are accessible from outside the housing portion.

3. 2. The inlet guide vane apparatus of claim 1, wherein the end cap includes an axially extending inner wall connected to the housing portion and cooperatively defining the fluid flow passage and the guide vane opening extending into the fluid flow passage.

4. 4. The inlet guide vane apparatus of claim 3, wherein the housing portion defines first channels and the inner wall defines second channels, each first channel aligned with one of the second channels, the first channels and the second channels cooperating to define the guide vane openings.

5. The inlet guide vane apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising a bearing, said ring gear rotatably connected to at least one of said housing portion and said end cap by said bearing.

6. The inlet guide vane apparatus of claim 5 , wherein the bearing is a self-lubricating bearing.

7. The inlet guide vane apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the guide vanes include a driving guide vane and a driven guide vane.

8. 8. The inlet guide vane apparatus of claim 7, wherein the drive guide vanes are operatively connected to a motor that rotates the drive guide vanes, the rotation of the drive guide vanes driving the rotation of the ring gear, and the rotation of the ring gear imparting rotation to the driven guide vanes.

9. 9. The inlet guide vane apparatus of claim 8, wherein each guide vane includes a stop, the housing portion being defined by slots, each slot extending from a first stop surface to a second stop surface and sized and shaped to receive one of the stops.

10. 10. The inlet guide vane apparatus of claim 9, wherein the motor is a stepper motor and contact between the stop and at least one of the first and second stop surfaces stops rotation of the guide vane and stops the motor.

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

12. A compressor, the compressor comprising: a compressor housing including a body and an end cap connected to an end of the body, the end cap defining an inlet of the compressor housing; a drive shaft rotatably supported within the compressor housing; an impeller connected to the drive shaft and operable to impart kinetic energy to a fluid flow entering the inlet upon rotation of the drive shaft; an inlet guide vane arrangement in combination with the end cap of the compressor housing; The inlet guide vane device comprises: a housing portion connected to the end cap and positioned axially downstream of the end cap, the end cap and the housing portion cooperating to define a fluid flow path and a guide vane opening extending into the fluid flow path; a ring gear rotatable relative to at least one of the housing portion and the end cap; a guide vane connected to the housing portion and the end cap; Each guide vane extends through one of the guide vane openings; Each guide vane is a vane gear operatively connected to the ring gear and disposed externally of the housing portion; a vane disposed within the fluid flow path, wherein each guide vane is rotatable relative to the housing portion such that an orientation of the vane within the fluid flow path is selectively adjustable. Compressor.

13. 13. The compressor of claim 12, wherein the end cap includes an axially extending inner wall connected to the housing portion and cooperating to define the fluid flow passage and the guide vane opening extending into the fluid flow passage.

14. 14. The compressor of claim 13, wherein the housing portion defines first channels and the inner wall defines second channels, each first channel aligned with one of the second channels, and the first and second channels cooperatively define the guide vane openings.

15. The compressor of claim 12 , further comprising a bearing, wherein the ring gear is rotatably connected to at least one of the housing portion and the end cap by the bearing.

16. The compressor of claim 12 , wherein the guide vanes include a driving guide vane and a driven guide vane.

17. 17. The compressor of claim 16, wherein the drive guide vanes are operatively connected to a motor that rotates the drive guide vanes, which in turn rotates the ring gear, which in turn imparts rotation to the driven guide vanes.

18. 18. The compressor of claim 17, wherein each guide vane includes a stopper, and the housing portion is defined by slots, each slot extending from a first stopper surface to a second stopper surface and sized and shaped to receive one of the stops therein.

19. 1. A method of assembling a compressor including a compressor housing having a body and end caps connected to ends of the body, and an inlet guide vane arrangement in combination with the end caps, the inlet guide vane arrangement including a housing portion and guide vanes, each guide vane including a vane gear and a vane, the method comprising: a ring gear rotatably connected to one of the housing portion and the end cap; connecting the housing portion to the end cap, whereby the housing portion and the end cap cooperate to define a fluid flow path and a guide vane opening extending into the fluid flow path; positioning the guide vanes relative to the other of the housing portions and the end caps such that, when the housing portions and the end caps are connected, each guide vane extends through one of the guide vane openings and the vanes of each vane gear are positioned within the fluid flow path; and operatively connecting the vane gear of each guide vane to the ring gear; assembling the inlet guide vane apparatus by Positioning the inlet guide vane device within the body of the compressor housing; and connecting the end cap to an end of the body to define an inlet of the compressor housing fluidly connected to the fluid flow path. method.

20. the vane gear of each guide vane is removably connected to a respective guide vane; The method comprises: removing the vane gear from one of the guide vanes without disconnecting the end cap and the housing portion; The method of claim 19 , further comprising: connecting a second vane gear to said one of said guide vanes.

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