Internal Flow Measurement of Centrifugal Compressors Using PIV

Abstract

  Turbomachines can operate under various conditions with respect to its rotation speed and flow rate. Although this adaptability, the performance of the machine degrades as the operating condition leaves away from the design point. Turbo compressors especially, have operation limit in lower flow rate region due to the occurrence of flow oscillation like rotating stall or surge. Present report introduces efforts to visualize such phenomena in centrifugal compressor by utilizing PIV (Particle image velocimetry) technology.