Acoustic and Vibrational Analyses on a Multi-Stage Compressor for Unstable Behavior Precursor Identification

The analysis of compressor behavior in critical working conditions, such as rotating stall and surge, represents a key aspect in the turbomachinery research field. In fact, both phenomena can lead to severe damage to the compression system and so the identification of unstable behaviour precursors is needed. The paper shows the test results of an experimental campaign conducted on a small size compressor with six axial stages and one centrifugal stage. In particular, the paper focuses on the analysis of acoustic and vibration measurements for both stationary conditions and for varying-over-time (i.e. gradually increasing) inlet mass flow rate. The correlation between compressor behavior in the operating region close to the surge line and vibration and acoustic measurements is investigated.Copyright © 2007 by ASME