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Analysis of the Inner Fluid-Dynamics of Scroll Compressors and Comparison between CFD Numerical and Modelling Approaches

Author

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  • Giovanna Cavazzini

    (Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy)

  • Francesco Giacomel

    (Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy)

  • Alberto Benato

    (Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy)

  • Francesco Nascimben

    (Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy)

  • Guido Ardizzon

    (Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy)

Abstract

Scroll compressors are widely adopted machines in both refrigeration systems and heat pumps. However, their efficiency is basically poor and constitutes the main bottleneck for improving the overall system performance. In fact, due to the complex machine fluid dynamics, scroll design is mainly based on theoretical and/or semi-empirical approaches. Designs strategies that do not guarantee an in-depth analysis of the machine behavior can be supplemented with a Computation Fluid Dynamics (CFD) approach. To this purpose, in the present work, the scroll compressor inner fluid dynamics is numerically analyzed in detail using two CFD software and two different modelling strategies for the axial gap. The analysis of the fluid evolution within the scroll wraps reveals unsteady phenomena developing during the suction and discharge phases, amplified by the axial clearance with negative impact on the main fluid flow (e.g., −13% of average mass flow rate for an axial gap of 30 μ) and on the scroll performance (e.g., +26% of average absorbed power for an axial gap of 30 μ). In terms of accuracy, the k-ε offers good performance on the estimation of average quantities but proves to be inadequate for capturing the complexity of the unsteady phenomena caused by the axial gap (e.g., −19% of the absorbed power in case of perfect tip seal). The need for considering specific geometric details in design procedures is highlighted, and guidelines on the choice of the most suitable numerical model are provided depending on the analysis needs.

Suggested Citation

  • Giovanna Cavazzini & Francesco Giacomel & Alberto Benato & Francesco Nascimben & Guido Ardizzon, 2021. "Analysis of the Inner Fluid-Dynamics of Scroll Compressors and Comparison between CFD Numerical and Modelling Approaches," Energies, MDPI, vol. 14(4), pages 1-28, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:14:y:2021:i:4:p:1158-:d:503725
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Emhardt, Simon & Tian, Guohong & Song, Panpan & Chew, John & Wei, Mingshan, 2020. "CFD modelling of small scale ORC scroll expanders using variable wall thicknesses," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 199(C).
    2. Menegozzo, L. & Dal Monte, A. & Benini, E. & Benato, A., 2018. "Small wind turbines: A numerical study for aerodynamic performance assessment under gust conditions," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 121(C), pages 123-132.
    3. Cavazzini, G. & Bari, S. & Pavesi, G. & Ardizzon, G., 2017. "A multi-fluid PSO-based algorithm for the search of the best performance of sub-critical Organic Rankine Cycles," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 129(C), pages 42-58.
    4. Cavazzini, G. & Giacomel, F. & Ardizzon, G. & Casari, N. & Fadiga, E. & Pinelli, M. & Suman, A. & Montomoli, F., 2020. "CFD-based optimization of scroll compressor design and uncertainty quantification of the performance under geometrical variations," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 209(C).
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    Cited by:

    1. Xiao Qu & Yantao Shi & Jiongjiong Cai, 2022. "Target Force Curve Searching Method for Axial Electromagnetic Dynamic Balance of Scroll Compressor," Energies, MDPI, vol. 15(5), pages 1-17, February.
    2. Jian Sun & Bin Peng & Bingguo Zhu, 2021. "Performance Analysis and Test Research of PEMFC Oil-Free Positive Displacement Compressor for Vehicle," Energies, MDPI, vol. 14(21), pages 1-18, November.

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