摘要 |
<p>A variable pipe diffuser (14) is disclosed for use in a centrifugal compressor (10). The variable pipe diffuser (14) includes an outer ring (42) and an inner ring (40) which is rotatable circumferentially within the outer ring (42) between a first, open position and a second, closed position. In an open position, complementary air channel sections of the inner and outer rings (40,42) are aligned with one another to allow a maximum flow of refrigerant through the diffuser (14). In a closed position, the flow channels (44,46) of the ring sections are misaligned and the flow of refrigerant through the diffuser is restricted. By adjusting the diffuser rings toward a closed position, surge conditions can be avoided even in the case where a high compressor pressure ratio is required. <IMAGE></p> |