Abrasion-resistant, high-efficiency impeller assembly for radial FANS and centrifugal pumps, and manufacturing method thereof

Abstract

The present invention relates to an impeller (rotor) assembly and a manufacturing method thereof, designed for effective and advantageous use in machines and systems operating on aerodynamic and hydrodynamic principles, particularly in radial fans and centrifugal pumps. The invention addresses wear effects that occur during operation, thereby extending the lifespan of the impellers and rotors. The assembly comprises a central hub (4, 35) to which at least two profiled blades (11) are connected, extending outward at specific angles in a structured configuration and configured to rotate around the central axis of the impeller. The segmented profiled blades (12, 37, 50) secured to the central hub via two flanges (13, 14 or 35, 39) ensure structural integrity and are key components of the assembly.

Description

[0001] ABRASION-RESISTANT, HIGH-EFFICIENCY IMPELLER ASSEMBLY FOR RADIAL FANS AND CENTRIFUGAL PUMPS, AND MANUFACTURING METHOD THEREOF

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present invention relates to an impeller assembly for use in radial fans (centrifugal fans) and centrifugal pumps, operating based on aerodynamic and hydrodynamic principles. Specifically, the invention relates to impellers (rotors) of radial fan systems and centrifugal pumps utilized in energy-absorbing machines and systems. Radial fans are employed in air conditioning systems, ventilation of enclosed spaces (such as hospitals, enclosed parking areas, factories, shopping malls, and schools), thermal power plants, mines, solid material transfer, cement factories, plaster factories, vacuum cleaners, range hood extractors, and road sweeping vehicles. Centrifugal pumps, on the other hand, are used for pumping and circulating liquid fluids, especially water.

[0004] PRIOR ART

[0005] Radial fans (centrifugal fans) operating based on aerodynamic principles and centrifugal pumps operating based on hydrodynamic principles provide motion to fluids through the rotation of the impeller using energy. These are powered machines used to create flow within a fluid, typically a gas such as air or a fluid such as water, consisting of a rotating arrangement of vanes or blades which act on the fluid. The rotating assembly of blades and hub is known as an impeller, a rotor, or a runner. Usually, it is contained within some form of housing or case. Radial fans (centrifugal fans) and centrifugal pumps are systems typically consisting of an impeller with blades made of flat sheet metal housed within a snail-shaped outer casing, a shaft with bearings attached to the impeller for rotation, coupling or pulley-belt assemblies, and an electric motor that generates rotational motion.

[0006] The rotational motion generated by the electric motor is transmitted to the shaft of the impeller (rotor) via a coupling or pulley-belt assembly. Since the shaft is fixed to the impeller in a radial fan or centrifugal pump, the impeller is rotated. There are also impellers directly mounted on the motor shaft. The fluid on the upper surfaces of the blades in the impeller is expelled outward from the center. The fluid is drawn through the suction port of the snail casing, which is aligned with the center of the impeller, and discharged through the outlet port located on the side of the casing. In this way, the fluid is set into motion, allowing radial fans to be used in ventilation, dust and gas suction along with air, and the transfer of solid materials combined with air. Centrifugal pumps are used to pump or circulate water or liquid fluids.

[0007] Currently, impellers are manufactured with backward-inclined blades, radial straight blades, and forward- inclined blades. Most commercially produced impellers feature blades made by bending plain sheet metal. Centrifugal pump impellers are typically produced through casting methods. In radial fans used for transporting materials such as wood chips, metal shavings, dust, and grains along with air, significant wear is a common issue. The high level of wear necessitates frequent replacement of the impeller, which consequently increases operating costs.

[0008] Although valuable solutions have been found in prior art applications, there remains a continual need for innovative and effective blade designs to further enhance the efficiency and applicability of aerodynamic and hydrodynamic systems. Further improvements in blade-profile design in critical energy consuming systems such as radial fans and centrifugal fluid pumps will play a central role in technological advancements in these fields. Such improvements, by further increasing the efficiency of energy conversion, are set to offer significant innovations that will yield considerable economic and environmental benefits.

[0009] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] The primary objective of the present invention, based on the findings from the research and development conducted thereon, is to provide a novel impeller (rotor) assembly for use in radial fans and centrifugal pumps, effectively addressing the issues and demands encountered in conventional applications. Said impeller assembly, applicable to both radial fans and centrifugal pumps, enhances efficiency through the optimized blade structure thereof, resulting in significant energy savings. The efficient operation of radial fans and centrifugal pumps extends their service life and substantially reduces operating costs. Furthermore, another objective of the invention is to mitigate noise issues, as the improved efficiency of radial fans and centrifugal pumps leads to quieter operation.

[0011] The invention also aims to reduce the investment costs associated with fans.

[0012] Still another objective of the invention is to achieve higher compatibility and performance efficiency in different system configurations, tailored to the aerodynamic and hydrodynamic applications of existing systems. The replacement of an impeller of a radial fan or a centrifugal pump with the embodiment proposed by the invention allows conventional systems to operate efficiently with minimal cost and enhanced practicality.

[0013] In the manufacturing of conventional radial fan impellers, welded fabrication is commonly used. However, welded fabrication leads to deformations in the blades and flanges of the impeller. In the present invention, no welded joints are employed; instead, the assembly is entirely achieved through connections using bolts, studs, or steel rivets. The bolts used include hexagonal head bolts, Allen head bolts, Torx head bolts, countersunk head bolts, dome head bolts, TX dome head bolts, R-flanged dome head bolts, and TX-flanged dome head bolts, among others. The nuts used in stud connections include hexagonal nuts, hexagonal nylon- insert nuts, hexagonal flanged nuts, hexagonal cap nuts, flanged locking nuts with nylon inserts, and flanged locking nuts, among others. The use of standard bolts and nuts simplifies the manufacturing process. Additionally, since welded fabrication is not utilized, deformation of materials is avoided. The profiled blades and flanges of the invention are made from sheet materials, with material selection depending on the specific application of the fan. For fan impellers used in material transport, abrasion-resistant sheet materials are employed. These abrasion-resistant sheet materials are cut on CNC laser or CNC plasma machines to prepare the same for assembly. The profiled blades of the impeller, cut from sheet materials of varying thicknesses using laser or plasma machines, gain additional hardness on their cut surfaces due to the heat generated during the cutting process. This added hardness enhances the wear resistance of the impeller blade surfaces. Research and development tests conducted by the inventor have demonstrated that the manufacturing method described herein extends the lifespan of the profiled blades of the impeller by at least 50% compared to conventional fan impellers.

[0014] The dimensions, number of blades, blade surface area, and impeller diameter of radial fans are determined according to the required flow rate and pressure values. For applications requiring high flow rates, a doublesuction configuration is enabled. The suction ports are positioned in the axial direction of the fan, while the pressure ports are located in the radial direction thereof on the snail casing. In radial fans, the suction cross- sectional area is formed to be equal to or larger than the pressure cross-sectional area. The suction port is circular and centrally positioned on the impeller. The suction pipe of the fan is aligned with the suction port of the impeller without any contact therebetween. The outlet, which directs the pressurized flow, is located on the snail casing that forms the outer body of the fan, and may have a circular, rectangular, or square crosssection. The same applies to centrifugal pumps. While the operational principles of radial fans and centrifugal pumps are identical, radial fans are used for transferring gases, air, or air combined with solid materials, whereas centrifugal pumps are used for transporting liquid fluids. Centrifugal pump impellers are commonly made from composite materials, cast iron, bronze, or stainless steel.

[0015] Additionally, the profiled blades of the radial fan impeller according to the invention can be formed by pressing in a mold or manufactured using the extrusion method. Depending on the intended use, the fan can also be produced using composite materials, aluminum, bronze, iron, or their alloys.

[0016] The rotation direction of impeller of the radial fan and the centrifugal pump can be either clockwise or counterclockwise when viewed from the front perspective.

[0017] Another significant objective of the invention is to provide a radial fan impeller comprising single-suction or double-suction profiled blades, ensuring greater compatibility and performance efficiency in various system configurations and suitability for use in diverse aerodynamic and hydrodynamic environments.

[0018] Yet another objective of the invention is to provide solutions for issues such as noise generated when the fluid discharged from the impeller of a radial fan or a centrifugal pump strikes the casing wall, as well as excessive energy consumption by the fan motor and pump motor associated with said phenomenon. In order to achieve said objectives, the present invention provides a novel impeller assembly for use in radial fans and centrifugal pumps, comprising a central hub to which at least two profiled main blades are connected, said blades extending outward from said hub and being configured to rotate around the central axis of the impeller, wherein each profiled blades, comprises at least three lower surfaces, at least two upper surfaces, a leading edge, and a trailing edge, thereby forming a distinctive arrangement of profiled blades.

[0019] In the arrangement of said profiled blades, each blades is positioned at specific angles, wherein said angles are determined based on design criteria such as flow rate, pressure, and the type of material to be transported, and the angles between the blades are equal.

[0020] In the arrangement of the profiled blades, particularly in radial fan impellers, the midsections of the blades can be hollowed out, thereby reducing the overall weight.

[0021] Due to the segmented design of the profiled blades and bolted connections thereof, it is possible to replace worn blades individually.

[0022] Said impeller, comprising profiled blades for use in a radial fan or centrifugal pump and assembled with bolted connections, not only simplifies manufacturing but also significantly reduces production time.

[0023] The impeller with profiled blades for a radial fan or centrifugal pump, along with the flanges thereof, can be cut using CNC laser or CNC plasma machines, ensuring uniform spacing and angles between the blades.

[0024] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0025] These and other objectives, aspects, structural and characteristic features, advantages, and embodiments of the present invention will become more apparent from- and will be understood more clearly by reference to- the following detailed description and the associated figures.

[0026] Figure 1: Front and side cross-sectional views illustrating the main components of a representative fan assembly according to the preferred embodiment of the invention.

[0027] Figure 2: Front and side views illustrating the assembled blades of a single-suction fan impeller, each cut from segmented sheet material, and their placement on the flange, showing the main components of the preferred embodiment of the invention.

[0028] Figure 3: Front and side views illustrating the assembled blades of a double-suction fan impeller, each cut from segmented sheet material, and their placement on the flange, showing the main components of the preferred embodiment of the invention.

[0029] Figure 4: illustrates the base flange secured to the fan hub in the preferred configuration of a singlesuction fan impeller. Figure 5: illustrates the end flange to which the suction port is secured in the preferred configuration of a single-suction fan impeller.

[0030] Figure 6: illustrates the base flange secured to the fan hub in the preferred configuration of a doublesuction fan impeller.

[0031] Figure 7: illustrates the end flange and intermediate flange to which the suction ports are secured in the preferred configuration of a double-suction fan impeller.

[0032] Figure 8: Front and side views illustrating the main components of a representative centrifugal pump assembly according to the preferred embodiment of the invention.

[0033] Figure 9: illustrates the segmented profiled blades of a centrifugal pump impeller, assembled by connecting the blades to the hub flange and the suction port flange, according to the preferred embodiment of the invention.

[0034] Figure 10: illustrates the assembly of threaded profiled blades of a centrifugal pump impeller using countersunk bolts to connect the blades to the hub flange and the suction port flange, according to the preferred embodiment of the invention.

[0035] Figure 11: illustrates a profiled blade with bolt holes drilled for assembly and designed with reduced weight.

[0036] The components or elements corresponding to the reference numbers used in the figures are listed below:

[0037] 1 Concrete foundation where the radial fan is installed

[0038] 2 Chassis

[0039] 3 Single-suction radial fan impeller

[0040] 4 Hub

[0041] 5 Bearing and housing

[0042] 6 Shaft

[0043] 7 Coupling

[0044] 8 Electric motor

[0045] 9 Snail casing

[0046] 10 Suction port(s) of the impeller, single-suction for single-suction fans and dual-suction for doublesuction fans

[0047] 11 Discharge port of the fan

[0048] 12 Segmented profiled impeller blades

[0049] 13 Base flange

[0050] 14 End (tip) flange 15 Bolts and washers securing the profiled blades to the base and end flanges

[0051] 16 Nuts and washers of the bolts securing the profiled blades to the base and end flanges

[0052] 17 Bolts and washers securing the base flange to the hub

[0053] 18 Fan hub

[0054] 19 Bolts securing the suction port of the fan impeller to the end flange

[0055] 20 Nuts and washers of the bolts securing the suction port of the fan impeller to the end flange

[0056] 21 Hub lock washer

[0057] 22 Hub bolt and washer

[0058] 23 Positioning bolt holes drilled into the profiled impeller blades and flanges

[0059] 24 Weight-reduction cutouts in the profiled impeller blades

[0060] 29 Concrete base where the centrifugal pump is installed

[0061] 30 Centrifugal pump chassis

[0062] 31 Centrifugal pump

[0063] 32 Coupling

[0064] 33 Electric motor

[0065] 34 Centrifugal pump impeller

[0066] 35 Hub flange of the centrifugal pump impeller

[0067] 36 Bolts securing the profiled blades of the centrifugal pump impeller to the hub flange and suction port flange

[0068] 37 Segmented profiled blades of the centrifugal pump impeller

[0069] 38 Nuts of the bolts securing the profiled blades of the centrifugal pump impeller to the hub flange and suction port flange

[0070] 39 Suction port flange of the centrifugal pump impeller

[0071] 40 Suction port of the centrifugal pump impeller

[0072] 41 Positioning bolt holes drilled into the profiled blades of the centrifugal pump impeller

[0073] 50 Threaded profiled blade of the centrifugal pump impeller

[0074] 51 Threaded holes on the profiled blades of the centrifugal pump impeller

[0075] 52 Countersunk bolts securing the profiled blades of the centrifugal pump impeller to the hub flange

[0076] 53 Countersunk bolts securing the profiled blades of the centrifugal pump impeller to the suction port flange

[0077] 60 Base flange of the double-suction radial fan impeller

[0078] 61 Intermediate flange(s) of the double-suction radial fan impeller

[0079] 62 End flange(s) of the double-suction radial fan impeller

[0080] 63 Set screw

[0081] 64 First suction port of the double-suction radial fan impeller

[0082] 65 Second suction port of the double-suction radial fan impeller Y1 Leading edge surface of the profiled blade

[0083] Y2 Second upper surface of the profiled blade

[0084] Y3 Second lower surface of the profiled blade Y4 Second upper surface of the profiled blade Y5 Second lower surface of the profiled blade Y6 Third lower surface of the profiled blade Y7 Trailing edge surface of the profiled blade

[0085] While the invention is described hereinafter by way of example for several embodiments and illustrative drawings, those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention is not limited to the embodiments or drawings described. It should be understood, that the drawings and detailed description thereto are not intended to limit the invention to the particular form disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims. The headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not meant to be used to limit the scope of the description or the claims. As used in this specification, expressions such as "may" are used in a permissive sense (i.e., meaning having the potential to), rather than the mandatory sense (i.e., meaning must). Similarly, words such as "include", "there is", "have", "contain" and "exist" also mean "comprise", but not limited to.

[0086] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0087] The impeller of the invention is suitable for use in both radial fans and centrifugal pumps, as they share similar structural configurations, enabling a unified description applicable to both. These powered machines operate on aerodynamic or hydrodynamic principles, imparting motion to fluids through a rotating assembly of vanes or blades, commonly referred to as an impeller, rotor, or runner. For the purposes of this specification, the term "impeller" is used to encompass all such rotating assemblies, including cases where "rotor" may also be commonly applied, such as in radial fans.

[0088] Figure 1 illustrates the main components of an assembly designed for use in embodiments such as radial fans, which are configured to utilize rotational motion (mechanical energy) generated by an electric motor to move a fluid, according to the invention.

[0089] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the profiled blades of a single-suction radial fan impeller (Figure 11) are cut from sheet metal, piece by piece, and mounted onto the impeller. These blades, along with the base flange (13) (Figure 4) and the end (tip) flange (14) (Figure 5), are prepared using DWG or DXF drawing formats and cut using CNC laser or plasma machines, depending on the design criteria of the impeller. The material for the blades is selected according to the intended application of the fan. For applications involving the transfer of air with solid materials, abrasion-resistant sheet metal is used. During cutting, the sheet metal is subjected to high temperatures, resulting in hardened cut surfaces. This hardening reduces wear and extends the impeller's lifespan.

[0090] The manufacturing method for the impeller with profiled blades according to the invention avoids welded connections, ensuring that the base flange and tip flange remain free from deformation.

[0091] The assembly sequence for the impeller of the radial fan according to the invention begins with the hub (4) being press-fitted onto the shaft (6) together with a key thereof. Subsequently, the hub lock washer (21) is secured by means of the hub lock bolt and washer (22). The hub lock bolt, attached to the threaded section at the center of the shaft (6), is then tightened to the predetermined torque value.

[0092] The base flange (13) is then is positioned onto the hub (4) at the recessed seating area and secured using mounting bolts and washers (17), which are tightened to the specified torque value. The shaft (6) is temporarily supported on a fixture using two bearing housings (5), allowing rotational capability for the hub (4) and the base flange (13). Bolts (15), along with washers, are inserted into the bolt holes (23) pre-drilled on the base flange (13) using a CNC laser machine, as shown in Figure 4, with the bolt heads oriented toward the shaft side. The bolts are then passed through corresponding holes of identical positioning pre-drilled into the profiled blades, thereby assembling the profiled blade segments in the arrangement illustrated in the side view of Figure 2. The thickness of the profiled blades can be selected based on specific preferences. The profiled blade segments are mounted until the desired blade width, determined through fan design calculations, is achieved. Subsequently, the outlet flange (14), with bolt holes and the suction port location prepared via CNC laser machining, is mounted. Washers and nuts are applied to the bolts and tightened to the specified torque value, thereby fixing the profiled blades securely between the base flange and top flange. The suction port (10) is then mounted in place, and the bolts (19) and nuts (20) are tightened to the specified torque. The alignment of suction port is checked using a centering comparator, and if it is found to be outside the permissible runout tolerances, the bolts securing the suction port are loosened to allow centering adjustments, after which they are retightened. Finally, the impeller is balanced using a balancing machine, completing the manufacturing process of the radial fan impeller. The bolts used in this assembly are preferably of 12.9 grade, and the nuts are of equivalent quality. The number of profiled blades in the fan impeller varies depending on the required pressure and flow rate.

[0093] In the representative illustrations, as shown in Figure 2, the single-suction fan rotor comprises nine profiled blades. In Figure 3, the double-suction fan rotor is characterized by profiled blades positioned on both sides of the bottom flange, with an equal number of blades on each side.

[0094] In the manufacturing of a double-suction radial fan impeller, the same steps as those for a single-suction impeller are followed in sequence. However, since the double-suction design has two inlets, the profiled blades on the first suction side are mounted first, followed by the blades on the second suction side. The base flange (60) illustrated in Figure 6 is mounted onto the hub (4) at the machined recessed section, as shown in Figure 3, and secured using bolts and washers. The bolts are tightened to the specified torque value. The shaft (6) is inserted into the centrally machined bore of the hub, along with the key, and fixed to the hub using setscrews (63). Bearings (5) are installed on both ends of the shaft, which is then temporarily mounted on a workbench, leaving the middle section of the shaft free to facilitate the installation of the profiled blades. This setup enables the base flange to rotate freely, aiding the assembly process. Bolts (15) or studs are inserted into the pre-drilled holes on the base flange, and the laser-cut profiled blade segments are sequentially placed onto said bolts or studs via the corresponding holes thereof. Given the high airflows typically handled by double-suction radial fans, the blade lengths can be longer. For additional stability of the bolts, an intermediate flange (61), as illustrated in Figure 7, is incorporated into the impeller. After the intermediate flange is installed, blade segments are mounted until the desired blade length is achieved. Once the blade length is completed, the top flange (62), illustrated in Figure 7, is installed and secured with nuts and washers, tightened to the specified torque values. The suction port (64) of the impeller is positioned into the circular opening on the top flange, and the bolts and nuts are tightened to the specified torque values. Afterwards, the second suction side of the impeller is assembled in the same sequence. The alignment of both suction ports (64, 65) is verified using a centering comparator to ensure proper balance. Finally, the impeller is balanced using a balancing machine, completing the manufacturing process of the radial fan impeller.

[0095] Figure 8 schematically illustrates a centrifugal pump system. The system comprises a concrete base (29) on which a chassis (30) is installed. A centrifugal pump (31) and an electric motor (33) are mounted on the chassis. A coupling (32) connects the motor to the pump, transmitting the rotational motion of the motor to the pump. The manufacturing process of the centrifugal pump impeller (34) is largely similar to that of the radial fan impeller; but aims to eliminate the disadvantages associated with conventional pump impellers. In conventional methods, pump impellers are typically manufactured using casting techniques.

[0096] Particularly in small-diameter impellers, significant efficiency losses occur due to the surface roughness of the impeller blades not being fully eliminated.

[0097] The manufacturing process of the centrifugal pump impeller (34) according to the invention involves designing the impeller to meet the required reference parameters. The design determines the necessary number of impeller blades, blade length, and impeller diameter to meet operational needs. Subsequently, profiled blades (37) with bolted connections are designed in DWG or DXF format and cut using a CNC laser machine. The hub flange (35) and the suction throat flange (39) of the centrifugal pump impeller, as illustrated in Figure 9, are machined on CNC equipment and prepared for assembly. The profiled blades are placed between the two flanges, fastened with bolts and nuts, and tightened to the specified torque values. The method of the invention also provides an option, as shown in the figure, for production using countersunk bolts, allowing the bolt heads to be embedded within the flange surface. In such cases, instead of drilling holes in the profiled blades (50), threads (51) are tapped. Countersunk bolts (52) are first tightened into the threads of the profiled blades via the holes in the hub flange (35). Subsequently, countersunk bolts (53) are inserted through the holes in the suction flange (39) and tightened. The bolts installed on both sides are torqued to the specified values. After the balancing process, the centrifugal pump impeller is finalized and ready for operational use.

[0098] The number of profiled blades in both the radial fan impeller and the centrifugal pump impeller varies depending on the design specifications. The blade count is determined during the design phase. For instance, the same operational requirements can be achieved by increasing the diameter of the fan impeller or the length of the blades, thereby reducing the number of blades. The blade counts shown in the figures are representative. Additionally, the materials used for the fan impeller and pump impeller may vary depending on their intended application.

[0099] The term "fluid" as used herein refers to air, air mixed with suctioned gases, chemical gases, or liquids.

[0100] The aerodynamic and hydrodynamic features that enhance the efficiency of radial fans and centrifugal pumps according to the invention, along with the manufacturing method of such impellers, are described as follows:

[0101] Since the operating principles of radial fans and centrifugal pumps are the same, they are explained together. The only difference lies in the densities of the fluids they handle.

[0102] The impeller is typically driven by an electric motor, which provides rotational motion (mechanical energy). Profiled blades are positioned in a specific arrangement between flanges (Figures 2, 3, 9, and 10) around the axis of the impeller and secured with bolts and nuts. The profiled blades (Figure 11) comprises at least seven surfaces and are configured in large numbers. As the impeller begins to rotate, the fluid on the convex upper surfaces (Y2 and Y4) of the profiled blades is expelled outward toward the trailing edge surface of the blades. This process occurs simultaneously across all the profiled blades of the impeller upon initiating rotational motion. As the fluid on the upper surfaces of these profiled blades is displaced, a vacuum is created at the suction port of the impeller. Consequently, the fluid in the suction pipes of the fan or pump moves toward the impeller, enabling the fluid to be drawn in and discharged. Subsequently, the fluid directed toward the leading edge surface of the profiled blade flows along the upper surface (Y2) and the lower surface (Y3) of the blade. Due to the convex shape of Y3 surface, the fluid accelerates along this region. The increased velocity along Y2 and Y3 results in a pressure drop at these surfaces. Toward the end of Y3, the surface transitions into a concave form, creating surface Y5 near the middle section of the profiled blade. Since surfaces Y5 and Y6 are concave, the cross-sectional area between adjacent profiled blades increases. This expanded cross-sectional area causes the fluid velocity to decrease while the pressure rises in the region of Y5 and Y6. Consequently, pressure forces are generated from the lower surfaces (Y5 and Y6) toward the upper surfaces (Y2 and Y4) of the profiled blade. These pressure forces align with the rotational direction of the impeller. Research and development studies revealed that fans and pumps equipped with the impeller of the present invention consume 30-45% less energy compared to conventional systems. These findings were based on comparative tests in which only the impellers of conventional radial fans and centrifugal pumps were replaced. The same snail casing configuration was utilized, and identical pressure and flow rates were achieved during the tests, resulting in significant energy savings.

[0103] The impellers of the invention for use in radial fans and centrifugal pumps offer significant advantages both in terms of manufacturing techniques and reduced energy consumption.

[0104] The descriptions of specific elements in the figures, including directional references such as the upper and lower surfaces of the profiled blades or their positions are arrangements, are solely intended to aid understanding and should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of the invention. A person skilled in the art will immediately recognize that these configurations may vary based on the placement of an impeller. Similarly, individual examples, such as radial fans and centrifugal pump impellers with different configurations serving various purposes, should not be considered restrictive to the scope of the invention. The primary focus of the invention is the unique arrangement of impellers with profiled blades in radial fans and centrifugal pumps, adaptable to all such variations.

Claims

CLAIMS1. An impeller (rotor) assembly for use in radial (centrifugal) fans and centrifugal pumps, connected to a central hub (4, 35), characterized by comprising at least two profiled blades (11); wherein said profiled blades are arranged around the central hub and extending outward at specific angles in a structured configuration, and configured to rotate around the central axis of the impeller; ensuring structural integrity through profiled blade segments (12, 37, 50) which are secured to the central hub via two flanges (13, 14 or 35,39); wherein each profiled blade comprises at least two upper surfaces (Y2, Y4), at least three lower surfaces (Y3, Y5, Y6), a leading edge surface (Yl), and a trailing edge surface (Y7).

2. The impeller assembly according to Claim 1, characterized in that said profiled blade segments are fixed between two flanges (35, 39) in pump impellers.

3. The impeller assembly according to Claim 1, characterized in that said profiled blade segments are secured between two flanges (13, 14) using bolted connections in fan impellers.

4. The impeller assembly according to Claim 1, characterized in that said profiled blades are segmented into individual sections to ensure structural integrity, in radial fans.

5. The impeller assembly according to Claim 1, characterized in that the profiled blade segments (12) have hollowed middle sections (24) to reduce weight, in radial fans.

6. The impeller assembly according to Claim 1, characterized in that the profiled blade segments comprise bolt holes (23) to ensure structural integrity, in radial fans.

7. The impeller assembly according to Claim 1, characterized in that the profiled blades comprise hardened surfaces resulting directly from the laser cutting process, without requiring additional processing, in radial fans.

8. The impeller assembly according to Claim 1, characterized in that the suction port (10) is connected to the end flange (14) using bolts and nuts (19, 20), in radial fans.

9. The impeller assembly according to Claim 1, characterized in that the profiled blade segments are secured between the base flange (13) and the end flange (14) using bolted connections (15, 16), in radial fans.

10. The impeller assembly according to Claim 1, characterized by comprising a hub (4) structure adaptable to conventional radial fan systems.

11. The impeller assembly according to Claim 1, characterized by comprising bolted connections for dual suction ports (64, 65), in radial fans.

12. The impeller assembly according to Claim 1, characterized in that the profiled blade segments of the radial fan impeller are configured to be producible by pressing in a mold or through extrusion methods and to allow manufacturing from composite materials depending on the intended application of the fan.

13. The impeller assembly according to Claim 1, characterized in that the profiled blades are segmented into individual sections (37) to ensure structural integrity, in centrifugal pumps.

14. The impeller assembly according to Claim 1, characterized in that the profiled blade segments comprise bolt holes (41) to ensure structural integrity, in centrifugal pumps.

15. The impeller assembly according to Claim 1, characterized in that the profiled blades comprise threaded holes (51) to ensure structural integrity, in centrifugal pumps.

16. The impeller assembly according to Claim 1, characterized in that the profiled blades (37) are secured between a hub flange (35) and a suction flange (39) using bolted connections (36, 38), in centrifugal pumps.

17. The impeller assembly according to Claim 1, characterized in that the hub flange (35) comprises a hub bore compatible with conventional pump shafts.

18. The impeller assembly according to Claim 1, characterized in that countersunk bolts (52, 53) are used to connect the hub flange and suction flange to the threaded holes (51) on the profiled blades, resulting in smooth flange surfaces, in centrifugal pumps.

19. The impeller assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the profiled blades comprise rounded transitions between surfaces, free of sharp edges, to reduce noise levels in fan or pump applications.

20. The impeller assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the impeller is configured to rotate either clockwise or counterclockwise in radial fans and centrifugal pumps.

21. The impeller assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is made of composite materials, aluminum, bronze, iron, or their alloys.

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