Study of the revolving vane expander

• Main Author: Lau, Daniel Jun Ming.
• Other Authors: Ooi Kim Tiow
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: 2011
• Subjects: DRNTU::Engineering::Mechanical engineering::Mechanics and dynamics
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10356/46079
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

In order to find an energy efficient system to address the possibility of using CO2 refrigeration systems, the use of a work recovery device called an expander was being studied. This project examines the performance of a Revolving Vane (RV) expander prototype by analyzing the experimental rotor output torque in various conditions of operational speed and suction pressure, and comparing these results with theoretical ones. It was found that excessively low operational speeds were detrimental to volumetric efficiency because of the high proportion of leakage flow rate. High speeds should also be avoided as this may compromise mechanical efficiency while raising volumetric efficiency. The optimum performance for the prototype is at 10-15 Hz of preset operating speed and 4-5 bar absolute of air pressure.