Development of the Universal Modelling Method mathematical model and the practice of its application

Abstract

Abstract We present the latest improvements to the Universal Modelling Method for optimal gas-dynamic design of centrifugal compressors. The calculation of the gas velocity at the inlet to the impeller blade cascade was corrected. The flow restructuring scheme at the inlet to the impeller blade cascade has been refined. In accordance with this, the mathematical model of the non-incidence gas inlet to an impeller has been improved. A new approach to modelling the velocity diagram on the blade surfaces is proposed, based on the flow parameters corresponding to the non-incidence flow inlet. A mathematical model with quasi-three-dimensional approach to calculating losses in 3D impellers has been developed. The method of gas-dynamic functions is applied to the calculation of flow parameters in control sections. The new mathematical model was identified based on the test results of model stages and compressors. The mathematical model showed a 0.525% error in modelling efficiency of stages with 2D impellers for the design flow rate. For stages with 3D impellers, the modelling error is 0.889%. To verify the new model, the characteristics of 11 low-flow-rate model stages were calculated. The efficiency modelling error for the design flow rate is 1.08%. A series of model stages with a range of design flow rates coefficient 0.15–0.015 and design loading factor of 0.5 was designed. Four of these model stages were tested on the Gas dynamics of turbomachines laboratory ECC-55 test rig. The measured gas-dynamic characteristics confirmed those declared in the design.