Integrated duct diffuser
US6471475B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 14, 2000 |
| Grant date | Oct 29, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 14, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF05D2250/52
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The invention provides a diffuser assembly constructed of internal and external concentrically nested bowl-shaped shells for directing an outward flow of compressed air from a centrifugal compressor impeller to an axially rearward diffused annular flow. One of the shells is formed with grooves separated by seam edges and the other shell includes a smooth surface of revolution. The grooves on the one shell are closed by the other shell when the two shells are nested together and the seam edges are secured to the smooth surface by fastening means thus defining individual diffuser ducts extending from the compressor impeller to the outer shell edges. The shells can be easily manufactured from metal castings and sheet metal respectively, thereby eliminating much of the cost and the time involved in fabricating prior art diffusers of multiple formed pipes brazed to a separately machined hub. This construction can be easily reinforced for vibration control and the thickness of diffuser duct walls can be optimized for improved performance and minimum weight. The designers are freed from many of the constraints imposed by conventional diffuser design. The shape and cross-section of the dif…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.