Compressor Insert Annular Gap Fluid Velocity

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current compressor systems face challenges in effectively managing the flow and temperature of lubricating coolants, which affects the performance of the airend in contact-cooled rotary screw compressors.

Innovation Solution

An insert is positioned within the injection port of the compressor, creating an annular gap that increases the velocity and shapes the fluid flow entering the compression chamber, enhancing the distribution and cooling efficiency of the lubricant/coolant.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If an insert is positioned within the injection port to create an annular gap, then the velocity and distribution of fluid flow entering the compression chamber is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecoolant distribution efficiencyVSAvoidinjection port structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The injection port is segmented into multiple functional zones by inserting a separate insert component with annular gap geometry, dividing the single flow path into controlled segments that improve distribution patterns

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

An insert component serves as an intermediary element positioned within the injection port, mediating the fluid flow between the main injection port and the compression chamber to achieve better distribution

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Loss of energy

If the insert creates an annular gap to shape fluid flow, then the cooling efficiency and isentropic efficiency are improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveisentropic efficiencyVSAvoidinjection port insert

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of energyVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The insert geometry parameters (annular gap width, cone angle, ring-like shape dimensions) are optimized to achieve the desired flow distribution and cooling efficiency while maintaining manufacturability through standard machining processes

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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 improves the isentropic efficiency and specific power of the compressor by ensuring consistent and even distribution of the coolant, leading to reduced power consumption and extended compressor longevity.

Implementation Method 1

the insert and the injection port define therebetween a gap through which the fluid enters the compression chamber

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFluid flow velocity increase through restricted gap: Bernoulli Effect

Implementation Method 2

A compressor system including, for example a contact-cooled rotary screw airend, may introduce a lubricating coolant, such as oil, into the compression chamber

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectHeat absorption through fluid circulation: Convection

Data Source

PatentUS9920763B2Contact cooled rotary airend injection spray insert

Publication Date: 2018.03.20 INGERSOLL RAND IND US INC

AI summary

A compressor having a compressor wall that has an interior surface that defines a compression chamber, in which a rotor or pair of rotors operates to compress a fluid. To do so, the rotors are in operative communication with the interior surface. The compressor also includes an injection port in the compressor wall and opening into the compression chamber, the injection port being in fluidic communication with a second fluid. The compressor can also include an insert in operative communication with the injection port, wherein the insert and the injection port define therebetween a gap through which the second fluid enters the compression chamber.