Differences between axial and centrifugal compressors

Centrifugal air compressor: Rotation imparts kinetic energy to the blades; the gas rotates at high speed driven by these blades, generating centrifugal force. Under this force, the gas inside the compressor is forced along the blade channels toward the blade exits. The high-speed gas exiting the blade exits gradually slows down and its pressure increases as it moves through the volute channels, before being discharged through the outlet. At the same time, the amount of gas at the blade inlets decreases and the pressure there drops, creating a pressure difference between the inlet and outlet, which enables continuous intake of new gas. Axial flow compressor: A type of turbine compressor in which gas is drawn in axially and discharged axially after compression. The gas is drawn in axially by a high-speed rotating impeller; after gaining speed, it is directed to the guide vanes and then discharged axially after expansion. The advantages are a short air flow path, lower resistance loss, higher flow rate, and higher efficiency compared to centrifugal compressors. The difference between starting and stopping isn’t very significant, but it should be noted that under the same conditions, axial flow compressors are more prone to surge.

I am only familiar with centrifugal compressors. A centrifugal compressor uses a rapidly rotating impeller to do work on the gas, converting mechanical energy into the kinetic energy of the gas; subsequently, an expander is used to convert this kinetic energy into pressure energy, thereby increasing the gas pressure. Its structure is similar to that of a multi-stage centrifugal pump.

1. First of all, the main obvious difference lies in the “air volume-air pressure diagram”. The curve for centrifugal fans is relatively flat; in other words, as the air volume changes, the fan’s pressure head remains relatively stable ； On the contrary, in axial flow fans, even a slight change in wind pressure results in significant instability in airflow volume. 2. In terms of cost, axial flow is relatively inexpensive ； 3. In terms of noise, centrifugal fans usually have fan enclosures, which helps to reduce noise somewhat ； 4. Direction of flow: In axial flow, the inlet and outlet must be on the same axis, while in centrifugal flow, there are many possible options ； 5. Centrifugal fans can handle relatively low air volumes combined with relatively high wind pressures; on the other hand, axial fans are suitable for relatively high air volumes with low pressure drops ； 6. Axial flow fans can be installed on partition walls or louvered panels; centrifuges are rarely installed in this way ； 7. In summary, the two differ greatly, and the appropriate one should be chosen depending on the situation.

There is a significant difference between centrifuges and axial flow fans, and the appropriate one should be chosen based on the specific application. It is recommended that you provide the process conditions to the manufacturer so that their professionals can develop a comprehensive solution for you.

Mm-hmm, thank you all for your advice. I’ve learned something