Optimization of a Centrifugal Impeller for a Small Gas Turbine Engine: A Finite Element Approach Available to Purchase

Impeller is the key component in a centrifugal compressor whose rotating set of vanes gradually raise the energy of the working gas. High rotational speeds of the order of 50000 rpm that generally encountered by the impellers in small gas turbine engines need precise design optimized for safe operation within the entire envelope. In the present case the design of an impeller targeted for a pressure ratio of 3.7 is optimized using 3-D finite element model. Temperature contours and von Misses stresses are analyzed for different materials and geometrical configurations. The optimized design is finally verified for any engine order response falling within the operating speed by plotting the Campbell diagram. The factor of safety is found well within the safe limit. The structural integrity of the impeller has been validated by carrying out over-speed and burst margin tests as per military standard.