Introduction to Axial Compressor — Lesson 2

This lesson covers the fundamentals of turbomachinery aerodynamics, focusing on the aerodynamics associated with different types of turbo machines like axial compressors, axial turbines, centrifugal compressors, and radial turbines. The lesson delves into the details of the syllabus, course contents, and the recommended textbooks or reference materials for the course. It also provides an overview of the lecture-wise schedule of the course, explaining the topics that will be covered in each lecture. For instance, the lesson discusses the aerodynamics of axial flow compressors, the losses associated with them, and how these losses affect their performance. It also covers the aerodynamics of axial flow turbines, centrifugal compressors, and radial turbines. The lesson concludes with a brief introduction to the use of computational fluid dynamics in turbomachinery design and analysis.

Video Highlights

02:17 - Discussion on the basic operation of axial flow compressors and fans, and the concept of velocity triangle as an analytical tool for analysis.
08:00 - Explanation of the compression process in terms of pressure and volume, and temperature and entropy .
35:10 - Discussion on the operation of an axial compressor, and the construction of velocity triangles for rotor and stator.
50:44 - Recap of the lecture's main points, including the significance of simplified aerothermodynamics analysis, the representation of compression processes, and the use of velocity triangles in design exercises.

Key Takeaways

- Turbomachinery aerodynamics involves the study of compressors and fans, which are extensively used in daily life, especially in gas
turbine  engines and aircraft engines.
- The thermodynamics of compression involves understanding the fundamental principles behind compression and how it occurs in single and multi-stage compressors.
- Velocity triangles are a crucial analytical tool for preliminary design and analysis of compressors.
- Simplified aerothermodynamics analysis plays a significant role in the design cycle of a compressor, enabling quick design optimization.
- The properties of flow vary as it moves through a rotor and a stator in a compressor.