An analytical approach for designing sCO2 centrifugal compressors using the loss-integrated throughflow method
Several studies have focused on the analytical modeling of centrifugal compressors. These models are commonly used in design, optimization and evaluation of rotor geometry. Existing models, which rely on either the meanline method (1D model) or the streamline curvature-based throughflow method (2D m...
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| Published in: | Applied thermal engineering Vol. 256; p. 124007 |
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| Main Authors: | , , , |
| Format: | Journal Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Elsevier Ltd
01-11-2024
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| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | Get full text |
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| Summary: | Several studies have focused on the analytical modeling of centrifugal compressors. These models are commonly used in design, optimization and evaluation of rotor geometry. Existing models, which rely on either the meanline method (1D model) or the streamline curvature-based throughflow method (2D model) combined with semi-empirical pressure loss relations, are closed-loop models that do not account for pressure loss distribution along the blade channel. Additionally, these models simplify the rotor’s three-dimensional geometry, focusing primarily on the β angle and meanline length. To address these limitations, we introduce an open-loop analytical approach called the ’loss-integrated throughflow method’ (LITM). This method computes pressure losses step-by-step along the blade’s channel geometry using the three-dimensional cross-section of the rotor as input data. The motivation behind this new approach is to develop an alternative tool for the preliminary design of supercritical CO2 (sCO2) compressors, providing insight into the relation between losses and rotor geometry beyond just the β angle and meanline length. In the present work we compare simulation results with a one-dimensional (1D) mathematical model that has been validated against experimental data for sCO2. We compare three sets of rotors, where each set shares identical β angles and meanline lengths. When compared against the 1D model, our model yields deviations ranging from 2.8% to 21.9% for rotors with matching meanline lengths and β angles. This suggests that factors other than the variables previously considered influence pressure losses. As a result of this study, we conclude that the proposed analytical model offers potential to refine the preliminary design for sCO2 rotors.
•We develop a novel open-loop analytical approach for modeling centrifugal compressors.•This novel approach accounts for pressure loss along the blade channel.•This novel analytical model incorporates three-dimensional geometry as input data.•Simulations show that factors other than β angle and meanline length significantly affect pressure losses.•The proposed model offers potential to refine the preliminary design for sCO2 rotors. |
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| ISSN: | 1359-4311 |
| DOI: | 10.1016/j.applthermaleng.2024.124007 |