Recent test experiences with applying multiple unshrouded impellers in a single-shaft compressor

The use of unshrouded impellers to increase the pressure ratio and volume reduction achieved in low mole weight, single-shaft compressor applications is discussed. The aerodynamic and mechanical implications of using multiple unshrouded impellers in series is also addressed. Test results will show that with proper management of impeller tip gaps good aerodynamic performance can be achieved with three unshrouded impellers in a single process section. The development effort also leveraged a knowledge-based impeller design system to provide new impeller designs that were optimized as a function of Mach number to provide a 30% axially shorter section without compromising aerodynamic performance. The shorter axial stages in the first section pushed the rotor natural frequency 20% higher, enabling faster rotor tip speeds. Test results from a single-stage test rig and from a full-size prototype testing are provided and generally show good agreement.