Numerical and experimental investigation of a centrifugal compressor: Prospects of polymer additive manufacturing

Abstract

This study numerically and experimentally investigates an optimized centrifugal compressor, fabricated by additive manufacturing technology. Additive manufacturing has attracted a lot of attention in industry and research and development studies due to its ability to fabricate parts of complex shapes with economic costs. In this regard, the compressor is designed based on iterative calculations of a 0D model in combination with loss models. The model can provide a preliminary geometry of the compressor according to the specifications. Then, the three-dimensional geometry of the compressor was optimized through the computational fluid dynamics calculation to find the best geometry and predict its performance. In addition, the structural aspect of the compressor rotor was analyzed through a numerical model. The components including the impeller and volute are fabricated by fused filament fabrication and stereolithography apparatus methods with polymers. The experimental results show the printed polymer rotor works properly at the speed of 52,000 r/min and can provide an expansion ratio of 0.66 with a maximum power of 250 W.