Effect of relative velocity distribution on efficiency and exit flow of centrifugal impellers

A quasi-three-dimensional flow analysis proposed by Senoo and Nakase (1972) is applied in order to estimate the relative velocity distribution within a centrifugal impeller, assuming that the flow is both isentropic and inviscid. The relationship between relative velocity distribution, impeller efficiency, and meridional exit flow is experimentally investigated for the case of shrouded impellers having various relative velocity distributions. Analytical results are used to establish design criteria for the relative velocity distribution of centrifugal impellers.