Differences between centrifugal compressors and axial flow compressors

It is a fluid type in centrifuges； Only the stationary blades are passed on to the next stage

Both axial flow compressors and centrifugal compressors belong to the speed-type compressors, and are both referred to as turbine compressors. Speed-type compressors refer to those whose operating principle relies on blades doing work on the gas, first greatly increasing the flow velocity of the gas and then converting that kinetic energy into pressure energy. Turbine compressors refer to those that all have high-speed rotating blades. Compared to centrifugal compressors, since the gas flow within an axial flow compressor occurs axially rather than radially, its main advantage is a high gas flow rate per unit area; under the same condition of handling a certain volume of gas, it has a smaller radial dimension, making it particularly suitable for applications that require high flow rates. In addition, axial flow compressors also have advantages such as a simple structure and easy operation and maintenance. However, it is clearly inferior to centrifugal compressors in terms of the complex blade profile, high manufacturing requirements, narrow stable operating range, and limited flow regulation capability at a constant speed

The flow direction of axial and centrifugal media is different; one is along the axial direction while the other is along the radial direction. In many cases, large compression units use a combination of axial and centrifugal mechanisms

This post was last edited by echo165180 on 2016-12-14 at 11:23. Centrifugal compressors feature radial and axial flow; the working part involves radial flow, resulting in a high pressure ratio and a wide stable operating range, with less tendency to surge. In axial flow compressors, the airflow is entirely axial, allowing for a larger flow rate but a lower pressure ratio. However, when the speed drops significantly, the flow rate in the high-pressure section decreases rapidly, making surge more likely. The adjustable range is limited, and the performance is unstable at partial loads. Moreover, the blades are large and long, leading to complex fluid dynamics requirements and high manufacturing standards; for more details, refer to the compressors and turbofans used in aircraft engines. He has high requirements for the airflow angle of attack, so adjustable blades are installed on the first few stages. If high flow rate and high pressure are required, an axial flow fan can be used at the front, followed by a centrifugal fan.

Centrifugal: low flow rate, high pressure ratio. Axial flow: high flow rate, low pressure ratio