An Analysis of Three-Dimensional Flow in a Centrifugal Compressor Impeller

Abstract

This paper presents detailed results of the three-dimensional kinematic flow detail in a centrifugal compressor impeller of common form with inducer and straight radial blade tip sections. The calculation method, which is inviscid and is reported elsewhere, shows the development of a passage vortex in a sense counter to that of blade rotation, initiated in the inducer and disappearing as the flow becomes radial. This vortex unloads the blade shroud sections and combined with slip at the blade tips, produces a jetwake velocity distribution at the blade passage exit. General features of the calculation are at variance with two-dimensional calculations but are in agreement with the experimental results of other workers.