Centrifugal Compressor Performance Improvements Through Impeller Splitter Location

Abstract

The splitter blades are very common to use for centrifugal compressor impellers to improve the compressor performance and manufacturing capability. In this study, a low-flow single-stage centrifugal compressor with a vaneless diffuser was used to investigate the location effects of the impeller splitter between two main blades. It is demonstrated that the splitter position provides an opportunity to improve the compressor performance and reduce the operational cost. The splitter location optimizations were performed numerically, and the optimal splitter location was identified. A prototype was built for the impeller with optimal splitter position. The performance tests were performed, and test results are compared with numerical analyses. The studies indicated that splitter positions have impacts on the compressor stage performances. The studies showed that the traditional splitter located in the middle of the two main blades is not the optimal location for aerodynamic performance. The splitter location optimization provided the opportunity to improve the centrifugal compressor performance further.