Flow Measurements in Passages of Different Diffusers Of A Centrifugal Compressor at Design Condition

Abstract

Flow field measurements in the passages of different types of diffusers of a centrifugal compressor are presented in this paper. The measurements are carried out using a precalibrated three hole pressure probe at the design condition. The measurements are carried out in the passages of the following diffusers: vaneless, vane, low solidity vane and partial vane diffusers. The results are presented as contours, axially averaged and mass averaged flow parameters. The partial vane diffuser shows slightly improved flow field.