Numerical Study of the Reynolds Number Effect on the Centrifugal Compressor Performance and Losses

2016 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jonna Tiainen ◽  
Ahti Jaatinen-Värri ◽  
Aki Grönman ◽  
Jari Backman
Keyword(s):  
Reynolds Number ◽  
Centrifugal Compressor ◽  
Numerical Study ◽  
Reynolds Numbers ◽  
Numerical Results ◽  
Impeller Blade ◽  
Number Range ◽  
Compressor Performance ◽  
Low Reynolds ◽  
Correction Equations

The efficiency is reduced in very small centrifugal compressors due to low Reynolds numbers. In the past, the effect of the Reynolds number on centrifugal compressor performance has been studied experimentally, and empirical correction equations for the efficiency have been derived based on those results. There is a lack of numerical investigations into the effect of the Reynolds number on centrifugal compressor performance and losses. This paper aims to compare the numerical results to the efficiencies predicted by the correction equations found in the literature. The loss generation in the impeller blade passages is also studied in order to find out which loss production mechanism has the most potential to be reduced or eliminated. The effect of the Reynolds number on compressor performance is investigated in the chord Reynolds number range varying from 0.8 · 105 to 17 · 105 by simulating numerically the original compressors and downscaled ones. The numerical results are validated against experimental data and the results are compared with the efficiency correction equations used in the literature. The results indicate that the performance of the downscaled compressors follow quite precisely the most recently published correction equation. The results also show that the increased losses in low-Reynolds-number compressors are caused both by the relatively increased boundary layer thickness and by the shear stress resulting from the increased vorticity.

Profiles for Low Reynolds Number Flows

1968 ◽  
Vol 183 (1) ◽  
pp. 591-602 ◽  
Author(s):  
G. S. Vasy ◽  
L. J. Kastner ◽  
J. C. McVeigh
Keyword(s):  
Reynolds Number ◽  
Discharge Coefficient ◽  
Low Reynolds Number ◽  
Small Diameter ◽  
Reynolds Numbers ◽  
Number Range ◽  
Low Reynolds Number Flows ◽  
Low Reynolds ◽  
Reynolds Number Flows ◽  
Considerable Range

The characteristics of the orifice meter are well known and have been thoroughly explored by a number of investigators over a considerable range of Reynolds numbers, yet the low Reynolds number range—i.e. below ( Re D = 4000, where ( Re) D is the upstream pipe Reynolds number, has received comparatively little attention, although recent work by two of the authors has supplemented the available data substantially. This work concentrates on very accurate measurements with small diameter orifices, but where less exacting standards of metering accuracy, e.g. ±2-2 1/2 per cent, can be allowed, a closer analysis reveals that there is a choice of orifice profiles which can be used successfully. Consideration is also given to the recommendations of the various standardizing bodies for the allowable tolerances in the diameter of the pipeline in which the orifice meter is situated. These tolerances are often unnecessarily severe and a ‘tolerance number’ depending upon discharge coefficient and the area ratio of orifice to pipe is suggested.

A note on vortex streets behind circular cylinders at low Reynolds numbers

1971 ◽  
Vol 45 (1) ◽  
pp. 203-208 ◽  
Author(s):  
D. J. Tritton
Keyword(s):  
Reynolds Number ◽  
Reynolds Numbers ◽  
Circular Cylinders ◽  
Number Range ◽  
Low Reynolds Numbers ◽  
Current State ◽  
Reynolds Number Range ◽  
Vortex Streets ◽  
Low Reynolds

A discussion is given of the current state of knowledge of vortex streets behind circular cylinders in the Reynolds number range 50 to 160. This was prompted by Gaster's (1969) report that he could not find the transition at a Reynolds number of about 90 observed by Tritton (1959) and Berger (1964a). A further brief experiment confirming the existence of the transition is described Reasons for rejecting Gaster's interpretation are advanced. Possible (mutually alternative) explanations of the discrepant observations are suggested.

In-Stall Compressor Performance and the Effects of Reynolds Number

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jack Hutchings ◽  
Cesare Hall
Keyword(s):  
Reynolds Number ◽  
Axial Compressor ◽  
Reynolds Numbers ◽  
Flow Coefficient ◽  
Total Size ◽  
Number Range ◽  
Stall Inception ◽  
Stable Operating ◽  
Compressor Performance ◽  
Stall Cells

Abstract Previous research into axial compressor stall has mainly focused on stall inception and methods to extend the stable operating range. This paper considers the performance of an axial compressor beyond stall and investigates how the characteristics of stall cells depend on Reynolds number. An experimental study has been conducted using a single-stage axial compressor capable of operating across the Reynolds number range of 10,000–100,000. Detailed unsteady measurements have been used to measure the behaviour across a range of install flow coefficients. These measurements have been used to extract the stall hysteresis and to determine the size, speed, number, and spanwise extent of the stall cells. The results show that for the stalled compressor, as Reynolds number increases, the size of the minimum stable stall cell decreases. This means that a larger change in throttle area is needed to reduce the stall cell down to a size where the compressor can recover from stall. At Re = 100,000, the stall hysteresis is six times greater than at Re = 20,000. At the design Reynolds number, the number of stall cells that form transitions from one, to two, and then to four stall cells as the flow coefficient is reduced. At lower Reynolds numbers, the two stall cell state becomes unstable; instead, a single stall cell transitions directly into five cells. In all cases, as the number of stall cells increases, so do the speed of the stall cells and the total size. Further reductions in the flow coefficient cause an increase in the total size of the stall cells and a decrease in the stall cell speed.

VIV Suppression Device Development and the Perils of Reynolds Number

2017 ◽  
Author(s):  
Don W. Allen ◽  
Nicole Liu
Keyword(s):  
Reynolds Number ◽  
Small Diameter ◽  
Reynolds Numbers ◽  
Number Range ◽  
Low Reynolds Numbers ◽  
Helical Strakes ◽  
Low Reynolds ◽  
Offshore Industry ◽  
High Reynolds ◽  
Viv Suppression

Most deepwater tubulars experiencing high currents frequently require vortex-induced vibration (VIV) suppression to maintain an acceptable fatigue life. While helical strakes and fairings are by far the most popular VIV suppression devices used in the offshore industry today, a myriad of small alternations to these basic devices can significantly impact the observed levels of suppression effectiveness. Additionally, numerous novel VIV reduction devices are continually being developed and some new devices are progressing towards the product readiness phase. It is quite common to first test suppression devices at low Reynolds numbers due to the availability of smaller scale facilities that are typically more budget-friendly than larger scale facilities. For larger scale testing, it is usually simpler and less expensive to evaluate prototype suppression devices on shorter pipe sections that are spring mounted rather than test on longer flexible pipes. This paper utilizes results from historical VIV experiments to evaluate the merits of various test setups and scales and to underscore the importance of Reynolds number. An assortment of testing scales are presented including: a) small diameter tests at low Reynolds numbers; b) moderate diameter tests that incorporate at least part of the critical Reynolds number range; c) short pipe tests conducted at prototype Reynolds numbers; and d) long pipe tests conducted at high Reynolds numbers but at less than full scale suppression geometry. The use of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is also briefly discussed.

scholarly journals The Effect of Inclination Angle and Reynolds Number on the Performance of a Direct Contact Membrane Distillation (DCMD) Process

Energies ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 13 (11) ◽  
pp. 2824 ◽  
Author(s):  
Adnan Alhathal Alanezi ◽  
Mohammad Reza Safaei ◽  
Marjan Goodarzi ◽  
Yasser Elhenawy
Keyword(s):  
Heat Transfer ◽  
Reynolds Number ◽  
Inclination Angle ◽  
Temperature Difference ◽  
Direct Contact ◽  
Numerical Study ◽  
Reynolds Numbers ◽  
Membrane Distillation ◽  
Number Range ◽  
Direct Contact Membrane Distillation

In this numerical study, a direct contact membrane distillation (DCMD) system has been modeled considering various angles for the membrane unit and the Reynolds number range of 500 to 2000. A two-dimensional model developed based on the Navier–Stokes, energy, and species transport equations were used. The governing equations were solved using the finite volume method (FVM). The results showed that with an increase in the Reynolds number of up to 1500, the heat transfer coefficient for all membrane angles increases, except for the inclination angle of 60°. Also, an increase in the membrane angle up to 90° causes the exit influence to diminish and the heat transfer to be augmented. Such findings revealed that the membrane inclination angle of 90° (referred to as the vertical membrane) with Reynolds number 2000 could potentially have the lowest temperature difference. Likewise, within the Reynolds numbers of 1000 and 2000, by changing the inclination angle of the membrane, temperature difference remains constant, however, for Reynolds numbers up to 500, the temperature difference reduces intensively.

On the Evaluation of Reynolds Number and Relative Surface Roughness Effects on Centrifugal Compressor Performance Based on Systematic Experimental Investigations

1984 ◽  
Vol 106 (2) ◽  
pp. 489-498 ◽  
Author(s):  
H. Simon ◽  
A. Bu¨lska¨mper
Keyword(s):  
Surface Roughness ◽  
Reynolds Number ◽  
Centrifugal Compressor ◽  
Performance Test ◽  
Flow Coefficient ◽  
Experimental Investigations ◽  
Design Calculation ◽  
Roughness Effects ◽  
Number Range ◽  
Compressor Performance

This paper summarizes the results of systematic investigations into the Reynolds number effects. It is based on performance map measurements carried out on a compressor test rig which was constructed primarily for this purpose. The measurements were performed for stages with different flow coefficients (0.004 ≦ φ1 ≦ 0.05), with different gases (air, nitrogen, helium, freon) and in the inlet pressure range 0.2 bar ≦ p1 ≦ 40 bar. By analogy with the turbulent flow in technically rough pipes, semi-empirical correlations are derived concerning the effects of the Reynolds number and the relative surface roughness on the characteristic performance parameters (efficiency, flow coefficient, head coefficient, work coefficient). For the detailed design calculation of individual stages, provision is made for the different effects on the hydraulic flow losses and the disk friction losses. Simplified correlations are given for the conversion of characteristics measured during thermodynamic performance tests. The correlations are applied to various single and multistage compressors, and the results compared with measured performance characteristics in the Reynolds number range 6 × 103 ≦ Ret ≦ 1.1 × 107. The good correspondence obtained forms the basis for recommending the application of these simplified relationships for the improvement of centrifugal compressor performance test codes (e.g. ASME PTC-10 and ISO TC 118).

A Reassessment of Metering Orifices for Low Reynolds Numbers

1965 ◽  
Vol 180 (1) ◽  
pp. 331-356 ◽  
Author(s):  
L. J. Kastner ◽  
J. C. McVeigh
Keyword(s):  
Experimental Study ◽  
Reynolds Number ◽  
Flow Rate ◽  
Discharge Coefficient ◽  
Low Reynolds Number ◽  
Reynolds Numbers ◽  
Number Range ◽  
Low Reynolds Numbers ◽  
Discharge Coefficients ◽  
Low Reynolds

In view of the importance of accurate measurement of flow rate at low Reynolds numbers, there have been numerous attempts to develop metering devices having constant discharge coefficients in the range of pipe Reynolds numbers between about 3000 and 200 and even below this latter value, and some of these attempts have achieved a reasonable degrees of success. Nevertheless, some confusion exists regarding the dimensions and range of utility of certain designs which have been recommended and further information is necessary in order that the situation may be clarified. The aims of the present investigation, which is believed to be wider in scope than any published in this field in recent years, were to review and correlate existing knowledge and to make an experimental study of the properties of various types of orifice in the low range of Reynolds numbers. Arising from this it was hoped that a design might be evolved which not only had a satisfactorily constant discharge coefficient throughout the range but was also simple to manufacture and reproduce, even for small orifice diameters of the order of 0.5 in or less, and it is believed that some success in attaining this aim was achieved. The first section of the paper contains a review of previous investigations classified into three main groups. In the second part of the paper, experiments with various types of orifice plate are described and it is shown that a properly proportioned single-bevelled orifice has as good a performance in the low Reynolds number range as that of any of the more complicated shapes.

scholarly journals Aerodynamic Characteristics of Different Airfoils under Varied Turbulence Intensities at Low Reynolds Numbers

2020 ◽  
Vol 10 (5) ◽  
pp. 1706 ◽  
Author(s):  
Yang Zhang ◽  
Zhou Zhou ◽  
Kelei Wang ◽  
Xu Li
Keyword(s):  
Reynolds Number ◽  
Turbulence Intensity ◽  
Flow Separation ◽  
Numerical Study ◽  
Reynolds Numbers ◽  
Jet Flow ◽  
Aerodynamic Characteristics ◽  
Aerodynamic Performance ◽  
Low Reynolds Numbers ◽  
Low Reynolds

A numerical study was conducted on the influence of turbulence intensity and Reynolds number on the mean topology and transition characteristics of flow separation to provide better understanding of the unsteady jet flow of turboelectric distributed propulsion (TeDP) aircraft. By solving unsteady Reynolds averaged Navier-Stokes (URANS) equation based on C-type structural mesh and γ - Re ˜ θ t transition model, the aerodynamic characteristics of the NACA0012 airfoil at different turbulence intensities was calculated and compared with the experimental results, which verifies the reliability of the numerical method. Then, the effects of varied low Reynolds numbers and turbulence intensities on the aerodynamic performance of NACA0012 and SD7037 were investigated. The results show that higher turbulence intensity or Reynolds number leads to more stable airfoil aerodynamic performance, larger stalling angle, and earlier transition with a different mechanism. The generation and evolution of the laminar separation bubble (LSB) are closely related to Reynolds number, and it would change the effective shape of the airfoil, having a big influence on the airfoil’s aerodynamic characteristics. Compared with the symmetrical airfoil, the low-Reynolds-number airfoil can delay the occurrence of flow separation and produce more lift in the same conditions, which provides guidance for further airfoil design under TeDP jet flow.

Forces Caused by the Radial Out-Flow Between Parallel Disks

1984 ◽  
Vol 106 (3) ◽  
pp. 292-297 ◽  
Author(s):  
C. E. Wark ◽  
J. F. Foss
Keyword(s):  
Reynolds Number ◽  
Ad Hoc ◽  
Reynolds Numbers ◽  
Experimental Program ◽  
Number Range ◽  
Parallel Disks ◽  
Flow Phenomena ◽  
Significant Disagreement ◽  
Low Reynolds ◽  
The Impact

An experimental program, to determine the magnitude of the force on the impact disk for the radial out-flow between parallel disks, has been carried out for moderate Reynolds numbers. The present results are compared with a previously published, ad hoc, analytical formulation whose coefficients were established for low Reynolds numbers. Acceptable agreement exists for the low Reynolds number range of the present study; progressively significant disagreement is observed as the Reynolds number is increased. The present force data, when combined with previous observations and interpreted via appropriate theoretical considerations, reveal a complex blending of flow phenomena for the Reynolds number, diameter ratio, and plate separation values of the present study.

Measurements in a Turbine Cascade Flow Under Ultra Low Reynolds Number Conditions

2001 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kenneth W. Van Treuren ◽  
Terrence Simon ◽  
Marc von Koller ◽  
Aaron R. Byerley ◽  
James W. Baughn ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Reynolds Number ◽  
Turbulence Intensity ◽  
Low Reynolds Number ◽  
Reynolds Numbers ◽  
Vortex Generators ◽  
Separation Region ◽  
Suction Surface ◽  
Number Range ◽  
Low Reynolds Numbers ◽  
Low Reynolds

With the new generation of gas turbine engines, low Reynolds number flows have become increasingly important. Designers must properly account for transition from laminar to turbulent flow and separation of the flow from the suction surface, which is strongly dependent upon transition. Of interest to industry are Reynolds numbers based upon suction surface length and flow exit velocity below 150,000 and as low as 25,000. In this paper, the extreme low end of this Reynolds number range is documented by way of pressure distributions, loss coefficients and identification of separation zones. Reynolds numbers of 25,000 and 50,000 and with 1% and 8–9% turbulence intensity of the approach flow (Free Stream Turbulence Intensity, FSTI) were investigated. At 25,000 Reynolds number and low FSTI, the suction surface displayed a strong and steady separation region. Raising the turbulence intensity resulted in a very unsteady separation region of nearly the same size on the suction surface. Vortex generators were added to the suction surface, but they appeared to do very little at this Reynolds number. At the higher Reynolds number of 50,000, the low-FSTI case was strongly separated on the downstream portion of the suction surface. The separation zone was eliminated when the turbulence level was increased to 8–9%. Vortex generators were added to the suction surface of the low-FSTI case. In this instance, the vortices were able to provide the mixing needed to reestablish flow attachment. This paper shows that massive separation at very low Reynolds numbers (25,000) is persistent, in spite of elevated FSTI and added vortices. However, at a higher Reynolds number, there is opportunity for flow reattachment either with elevated freestream turbulence or with added vortices. This may be the first documentation of flow behavior at such low Reynolds numbers. Though undesirable to operate under these conditions, it is important to know what to expect and how performance may be improved if such conditions are unavoidable.

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