Investigation of Vaned Diffusers as a Variable Geometry Device for Application to Turbocharger Compressors

Abstract

The potential of guide vanes as a variable geometry device, placed in the conventional vaneless diffuser, to extend the operating range of a turbocharger compressor is investigated. Vaned diffusers are not normally employed in turbocharger applications as the consequent reduction in operating range is more damaging than the beneficial improvement in peak efficiency and pressure ratio. The variable geometry concept considered here is primarily one in which the guide vanes are introduced at the near surge flow conditions. The leading edge vane angle is set to accept the highly tangential flow at the near surge conditions, and the vane is then used to guide the fluid towards the radial direction in order to reduce the long flow path through the diffuser. Four types of vane arrangements are considered: (a) 12 and 6 full length vanes, with inlet vane angles of 75° and 80°; (b) 6 short inlet vanes to give a high aspect ratio; (c) 12 and 6 short vanes located in the outer half of the vaneless diffuser passage; and (d) double-row vane rings. It is shown that short vanes deployed at the diffuser outlet not only improve the efficiency and pressure ratio but also extend the high flow operating range. Further, the introduction of short inlet vanes with an inlet angle of 80° improves the peak pressure ratio and efficiency, and extends the near surge operating range.