Where does stagnation pressure rise occur in a centrifugal compressor? Identify the component(s) responsible for the increase in total (stagnation) pressure.
Mechanical Engineering
Compressors, Gas Dynamics and Gas Turbines
Difficulty: Medium
Choose an option
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AIn the diffuser only
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BIn the impeller only
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CIn both the diffuser and the impeller
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DIn the inlet guide vanes only
Answer
Correct Answer: In the impeller only
Explanation
Concept/ApproachThe impeller does shaft work on the fluid, increasing total enthalpy and thus stagnation pressure (neglecting losses). The diffuser primarily converts kinetic energy to static pressure; ideally, total pressure would remain constant there (real diffusers have losses that can decrease stagnation pressure).
ConclusionThe rise in stagnation pressure is produced in the impeller.
Final AnswerIn the impeller only.