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Design and optimization of meridional profiles for the impeller of centrifugal compressors

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Abstract

An impeller design for radial flow compressors is addressed in several text books. According to practiced methods, the overall dimensions and properties of an impeller can be determined using basic aerodynamic and thermodynamic relations. However, the values of several parameters and geometric details have not been strictly assigned. Hence, the experience and empirical relations of designers are important. The impeller meridional profile is an important detail that has a significant influence on the performance of the impeller. Generally, circular arc curves are implemented for this purpose. In this study, the effect of using elliptic curves is studied and compared with circular curves. An experimentally validated numerical code is used for this investigation. Two different compressors are studied to formulate the conclusion. Results show that elliptic curves can be a better initial choice for hub and shroud profiles compared with the commonly used circular arc. Smoother direction change with less secondary flow and related loss are identified as the improvement cause.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Mechanical and Energy Engineering Department, Shahid Beheshti University, A.C., Tehran, Iran

    Mohammad Mojaddam

  2. Niroo Research Institute, Tehran, Iran

    S. Abolfazl Moussavi Torshizi

Authors
  1. Mohammad Mojaddam
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  2. S. Abolfazl Moussavi Torshizi
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to Mohammad Mojaddam.

Additional information

Recommended by Associate Editor Weon Gyu Shin

Mohammad Mojaddam received his Ph.D. degree from the Mechanical Engineering Department of Sharif University of Technology, Tehran, Iran in 2014. Since then, he has been a faculty member of the Mechanical and Energy Engineering Department of Shahid Beheshti University. He has been working on design and optimization of the components of rotational machines since 2009. His research interest includes fluid mechanics, turbomachinery, and aerodynamics.

S. Abolfazl Moussavi received his B.S. (2002) and M.S. degrees (2006) in Mechanical Engineering with a minor in Applied Design. He received his Ph.D. in the field of turbomachines. His studies are mainly focused on the aerodynamic and structural design and optimization of radial flow compressors. He has also been involved in the design and implementation of megawatt-class wind turbine blades since 2009.

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Mojaddam, M., Moussavi Torshizi, S.A. Design and optimization of meridional profiles for the impeller of centrifugal compressors. J Mech Sci Technol 31, 4853–4861 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12206-017-0933-3

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12206-017-0933-3

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