OPERATION OF CENTRIFUGAL COMPRESSORS IN CHOKE CONDITIONS

Abstract

Centrifugal compressors are at times required to operate in or near the choke region. Various limits of the degree of allowable operation in choke have been established. Based on test data and numerical data, the behavior of centrifugal compressors in the choke region is studied. Changes in aerodynamic performance, thrust load, volute behavior and radial loading are considered. The issue of excitation of impeller vanes is addressed. Particular consideration is given to multistage machines, as well as dual compartment machines, in particular regarding the effects of impeller mismatch during operating conditions at flows significantly higher than the design flow. Limitations in the overload operating range of a compressor not only impact the operational flexibility , but also can require more complicated control systems. The paper addresses aerodynamic, structural as well as rotordynamic issues related to the operation in choke.