Flow in Centrifugal Compressor Impellers: A Hub-to-Shroud Solution

The matrix through-flow analysis is applied to the hub-to-shroud stream surface of a centrifugal compressor impeller. The k-e turbulence model is used to calculate the stress tensor necessary to obtain a dissipation force. Integration of the streamwise equation of motion yields an entropy field in agreement with the dissipation force. The results are compared with isentropic flow solutions. Furthermore, the effect on the velocity field of the initial velocity profiles and turbulence levels at the eye of the impeller are studied, as is the influence of the shroud on the flow.