Centrifugal Compressor Test System
The Centrifugal Compressor Test System, manufactured and supplied by Atto Labware India, is an advanced educational and research unit designed to study the thermodynamic and aerodynamic performance of a dynamic compressor. Unlike fans, this system achieves a high pressure ratio suitable for industrial applications. It demonstrates the principles of energy conversion, surge phenomenon, and is crucial for Mechanical, Civil, Aerospace, and Power Plant Engineering laboratories.
Educational Objectives
Students and researchers will be able to:
- Determine the pressure ratio and mass flow rate of the compressor at various speeds.
- Construct the Compressor Characteristic Curves ($\text{Pressure Ratio}$ vs. $\text{Mass Flow Rate}$).
- Calculate the Isentropic Efficiency and Mechanical Efficiency.
- Study the effect of speed variation on performance and analyze the Surge Phenomenon.
- Verify the principles of momentum transfer and energy conservation in dynamic compression.
Performance Measurement
- Measurement of Inlet and Outlet Pressure and Temperature for thermodynamic analysis.
- Calculation of Isentropic Work and Actual Work Input.
- Determination of Mass Flow Rate using an orifice plate or suitable flow meter.
- Plotting of Surge Line and efficient operating range on the characteristic curves.
- Calculation of Power Input to the compressor (often via the Universal Drive Unit).
Panel and Instruments / Components
- High-Speed Centrifugal Compressor Unit: Typically an impeller with a diffuser and volute casing.
- Variable Speed Drive: Required for characteristic curve generation.
- Instrumentation Panel: Digital displays for RPM, Temperature (T1, T2), and Pressure Gauges (P{in}, P{out}).
- Flow Measurement Device: Orifice plate or Venturi meter with differential pressure measurement (manometer/transducer).
- Throttling Valve: Installed on the discharge side to control the back pressure and induce surge.
- Safety Features: High-speed protection and surge prevention indicators.
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
| Compressor Type | Centrifugal (Single or Multi-Stage) |
| Max Pressure Ratio | Typically up to 1.5:1 (Educational Scale) |
| Flow Measurement | Orifice Meter/Venturi Meter |
| Instrumentation | Digital Temperature Indicators, Pressure Gauges/Transducers |
| Drive System | Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) Motor |
| Construction | Blue Powder-Coated Frame, Stainless Steel/Aluminum Piping |
Note: Customized specifications, accessories, panel instruments, and LabVIEW software available on request.
