L09: Development and Application of Very High Flow Coverd Stages for Process Centrifugal Compressors

Abstract

The present work describes the development and application of a family of very high flow (VHF) stages with nominal design flow coefficient of 024 and moderate to high Machine Mach Number (Mu) of 088 The design is essentially a constrained optimization where the stage aerodynamic performance (range and efficiency) is optimized while still meeting targets related to mechanical robustness and rotor dynamic usability The first part of the paper describes the aerodynamic design focusing on the features that help address the aerodynamic performance requirements The presented aerodynamic stage design solution consists of an impeller with both full and splitter blades having unique features and a return channel system that also features three-dimensional blading, which extends into the cross-over section Subsequent parts of the paper discuss the mechanical design, single stage aerodynamic rig testing, selection examples, and a case study involving results from a tested shop order