Control of Self-Excited Flow Oscillations in Vaneless Diffuser of Centrifugal Compression Systems
Experiments were conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of axisymmetric diffuser exit throttle in delaying the occurrence of self-excited flow oscillation in vaneless diffusers. Sharp edge rings were installed at diffuser exit in order to change the exit flow area. Tests were carried out with the rings attached to one or both of the diffuser walls. Steady and unsteady flow measurements were used to determine the flow field in the diffuser at the onset of the flow oscillations. Results showed that the occurrence of flow oscillation was continuously delayed as the diffuser exit flow area was reduced for all these configurations and impeller speeds. Comparison between the performance of the compression system with and without diffuser exit blockage indicated that although large losses occur at high flow rates, the use of diffuser exit rings resulted in overall diffuser performance improvement at low flow rates. Retractable diffuser exit rings would therefore be ideal for centrifugal compression systems with vaneless diffuser.