Performance Evaluation of Centrifugal Compressor Impellers Using Three-Dimensional Viscous Flow Calculations

Calculations of three-dimensional viscous flow in the impeller of a centrifugal compressor are used as the basis of a study of the thermodynamics of the compression process. Flow in a high hub-tip ratio low specific speed impeller of approximately 3.4:1 pressure ratio is considered. Results are presented showing the work and loss production processes in the impeller. A strong influence of tip-leakage flow on the performance of this unshrouded wheel is found.