Analysis and Optimization of the Performances of the Centrifugal Compressor Using the CFD

Abstract

Centrifugal compressors have been used in many areas of the machinery. The centrifugal compressor design is very complex, and a unique design system needs to be developed. A centrifugal compressor design system should be easy to use in interface and also flexible for inputs and outputs. The design tool also needs to be able to predicate the compressor performance in a fairly accurate level. In this study, we have developed a general analyses and optimization approach in the design and performance analysis of centrifugal turbomachines. This approach is based on different methods starting from a 1D approach up to the 3D study of the internal flow. It presents itself as a robust procedure for predicting and understanding the phenomena associated with the operation of turbomachines, but also for predicting performance. Current design system includes initial parameter studies, throughflow calculation, impeller design. The main improvements of the design system are adding the interface to allow users easy to use, adding the input and output capabilities and modifying few correlations. Current design system can predict the blade loading and compressor performance better compared with original design system. To check the aerodynamic appearance of the centrifugal compressor impeller blades, we must change the impeller dimensions and focus on changing axial length, but when changing the blade numbers, the model that improved efficiency and power at the same time introduced a design with a 0.274% and 10.735% improvement in each respectively in comparison to the initial impeller at the design point.