Multicomponent Flow Compressor: A New Concept for Efficient Energy Conversion: Final Report for Period 10 June 1985-9 June 1986

摘要

The research program reported herein is based on an innovative concept of tailoring a multicomponent flow by controlled injection of uniform-size, several-micrometer-diameter particles in a gas flow, such as air or helium for admission to a compressor rotor, so as to obtain greatly improved compressor performance characteristics: three such major improvements over present technology are lowest work of compression (essentially isothermal), low rotor tip speeds, and very high compressor pressure ratios in a single stage. The objectives of the first phase were to demonstrate the effects of tailoring the multicomponent flow on the compressor pressure rise and to provide the conceptual design of the major elements of the multicomponent flow compressor system. A high specific speed rotor with 40 blades was designed and built. The rotor was housed in a vaneless diffuser and scroll designed to diffuse the particle laden gas. Preliminary data obtained with the compressor rig shows a 40% increase in pressure using particles when compared to the air only values. However, theory indicates that substantial gains in performance are still possible. Modifications to the compressor rig are presented and will be used to obtain additional data at higher particle loadings. (ERA citation 12:013975)