Compressor Rotor Internal Coolant Manifold Heat Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing compressor systems face efficiency losses and performance degradation due to uncontrolled temperature, as conventional cooling mechanisms are inadequate for maintaining optimal operation, especially in applications where heat removal is critical during the compression process.
Innovation Solution
A rotor for a compressor system featuring a coolant manifold with an inlet runner and multiple coolant supply conduits directing coolant fluid towards an inner heat exchange surface, allowing for efficient heat dissipation through a screw rotor design with helical lobes and grooves, and a distribution of coolant at axial and circumferential locations for enhanced cooling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If conventional cooling mechanisms are used, then the compressor can operate, but heat removal efficiency is insufficient leading to temperature control problems
Solution Approach 1:
The rotor is segmented into multiple functional zones with dedicated cooling circuits for different regions (end caps, bearing shells, compression chambers). Each segment has its own coolant flow paths, allowing targeted cooling where heat generation is highest, thereby improving overall heat removal efficiency and preventing localized overheating that could cause performance degradation
Solution Approach 2:
The cooling system is nested within the rotor structure itself, with coolant channels integrated into the rotor body, end caps, and bearing shells. The coolant manifolds are positioned concentrically within the rotor, allowing coolant to flow through multiple nested layers and surfaces, maximizing heat extraction from the compression process while maintaining a compact design
2Temperature
If more coolant supply conduits are added, then cooling efficiency improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coolant manifold system performs multiple functions simultaneously: it distributes coolant to various rotor regions, collects heated coolant, provides structural support within the rotor, and serves as a heat transfer surface itself. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each cooling function, thereby improving cooling efficiency without proportionally increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The cooling system merges several components into an integrated manifold structure that combines supply channels, return channels, and heat exchange surfaces into a single unified system. The end caps and bearing shells are merged with the cooling circuit, eliminating the need for separate external cooling components and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining effective cooling
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
This design improves compressor efficiency and reliability by effectively managing heat generation during gas compression, reducing material usage while maintaining structural integrity, and enabling efficient cooling, thus extending the service life and reducing material costs.
Implementation Method 1
coolant supply conduits extending from the inlet runner toward an inner heat exchange surface so as to direct coolant fluid toward the same
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4
AI summary
A rotor for a compressor system includes a rotor body having a coolant manifold with an inlet runner and a plurality of coolant supply conduits extending from the inlet runner toward an inner heat exchange surface. The coolant supply conduits may have a circumferential and axial distribution, and extend through struts enhancing stiffness in the rotor body.