Centrifugal Compressor Diffuser Pressure Equalization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Centrifugal compressors face performance degradation due to non-uniform pressure distribution at the diffuser inlet, caused by local flow non-uniformity through distinct passages, leading to increased surge and reduced operational range.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an equalization plenum connected to each discrete passage exit via slots, which balances pressure across the diffuser inlets by allowing fluid exchange between passages, thereby reducing local pressure non-uniformity and stabilizing compressor operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If multiple distinct passages connect the impeller outlet to the diffuser, then the compressor structure is established, but local non-uniformity of flow through each passage causes non-uniform pressure distribution at the diffuser inlet
Solution Approach 1:
An equalization plenum is introduced as an intermediary chamber between the impeller outlet passages and the diffuser inlet. This plenum receives fluid from multiple discrete passages and redistributes it uniformly to the diffuser, acting as a mediator that equalizes pressure non-uniformities. The plenum includes multiple inlets connected to the impeller passages and multiple outlets connected to the diffuser, creating a balancing mechanism that stabilizes pressure distribution.
2Ease of manufacture
If multiple distinct passages are used to connect impeller outlet to diffuser, then the compressor can be constructed, but the operational range is reduced due to surge caused by non-uniform flow
Solution Approach 1:
The equalization plenum serves as a mediator that prevents surge by uniformizing flow distribution to the diffuser. By receiving non-uniform flow from multiple impeller passages and redistributing it evenly through multiple outlets to the diffuser, the plenum eliminates flow non-uniformities that would otherwise cause surge and limit operational range.
3Stability of the object's composition
If an equalization plenum is added to equalize pressure at diffuser inlets, then pressure uniformity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The equalization plenum merges multiple discrete flow paths into a single unified chamber that redistributes flow uniformly. By combining the functions of multiple passages and pressure equalization into one integrated component, the design achieves pressure uniformity without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution effectively reduces surge occurrences and enhances the operational range of the compressor by maintaining a uniform pressure field across the diffuser inlets, improving overall system performance.
Implementation Method 1
an equalization plenum fluidly connected to each discrete passage exit via a corresponding slot... balances pressure across the diffuser inlets by allowing fluid exchange between passages
Data Source
AI summary
A centrifugal compressor includes an impeller configured to drive fluid along a fluid flowpath via a plurality of discrete passages. Each of the discrete passages includes a discrete passage exit. A diffuser portion is disposed circumferentially about the impeller. The diffuser portion includes a plenum connected to each exit of the discrete passages via a plurality of diffuser inlets and an equalization plenum defined adjacent to the impeller. The equalization plenum is fluidly connected to each discrete passage exit via a corresponding slot.