Development of a chamber model considering non-uniform pressure distribution for twin-screw compressors

Abstract

Further efficiency improvements of screw compressors rely on computer modeling and mathematical analysis at the design stage. As speed and capacity increase, the uniformity assumption used in the conventional chamber model for twin-screw compressors is no longer suitable. At the same time, CFD simulations are complicated and time-consuming for design optimization. Therefore, in this paper, a chamber model considering pressure distribution is proposed, which is fast enough and more applicable. Each working unit of a screw compressor is considered a one-dimensional compressible transient flow with two moving pistons, which allow the passage of fluid. Numerical methods of the model are verified by a shock wave test. A twin-screw compressor was also simulated and the results of the chamber model were compared with the CFD results. Pressure fluctuations like those in previous experimental studies can be captured in the simulated indicator diagram. General trends with different speeds, suction ports, and wrap angles could also be recognized in the simulation results. The compression process and the influence of structural parameters on the compressor's functioning are revealed intuitively. By combining existing chamber models, the applicability of the new model can be further extended, and it is expected to be a helpful tool for compressor design.