Analysis of internal flow field for a three-stage centrifugal fan under various operating conditions

Abstract

Centrifugal fan in series is the core facility for pneumatic transportation. Its operation is required to be adjusted real time as the flow rate of transported materials changes. For optimisation performance, internal flow of a type 700 three-stage fan at rated rotation speed is analysed with FLUENT6.3 for various total pressure. Multiple reference frame (MRF) model is used for the impellers rotation in simulation, and Re-Normalisation group (RNG) κ-ɛ turbulence model and Roe-FDS flux type with first-order upwind difference scheme are used for calculation of compressible flow under various total pressure. Flow characteristics are obtained and differences of total pressure and velocity distribution in every impeller are analysed in different conditions, and velocity distribution on meridian plane as well as section of wind guide plates and volute are compared. Results show that there are many vortexes and backflows in fan with higher total pressure, and the lower pressure, the more smoothly flows, besides flow at inlet and outlet of impellers and in guide plates is seriously influenced by total pressure. Curves of P-Q and P-η at 4600\u2005r/min are predicted based on simulation, which is helpful reducing the impact caused by off-design operation and improving efficiency.