PREDICTION MODELLING OF VELOCITY IN THE DIFFUSER

Abstract

A diffuser is a device for converting the kinetic energy of an incoming fluid into pressure. As the flow proceeds through the diffuser there is continuous retardation of the flow resulting in conversion of kinetic energy into pressure energy. Such a process is termed as diffusion. Diffuser forms an important part in flow machinery and structures. The present study involves the CFD analysis for the prediction of flow characteristics using various mathematical models. The annular diffuser considered in the present case has both the hub and casings are diverging with equal angles and hub angle keeping constant as 10°. The characteristic quantities such as static pressure distribution at hub and casing walls, velocity profiles at various sections and flow patterns have been presented for studying. The effect of change in swirl angle and Y/Ym in diffuser is studied in the present study. The cases that were studied are 0°,7.5°,12°, 17°, and 25° at various sections of casing.