In a centrifugal compressor, where does air enter and how is it directed to the diffuser?

In a centrifugal compressor, where does air enter and how is it directed to the diffuser?

• A. It enters at the center of the compressor and is accelerated outward by the impeller toward the diffuser
• B. It enters at the periphery and moves inward to the diffuser
• C. It enters from the bottom and is directed to the diffuser
• D. It enters at the outer edge and is directed to the diffuser

Answer: (A)

In a centrifugal compressor, air path is radial outward from the center. It enters at the center of the impeller (the eye) and is accelerated outward by the impeller blades, which adds energy to the flow. The high-velocity air then enters the diffuser, where it is slowed down and its kinetic energy is converted into additional static pressure, guiding it toward the discharge or the next stage. This is why entering at the center and moving outward toward the diffuser is the correct description. Air does not enter from the outer edge or bottom and move inward; the design relies on center-entry and outward flow into the diffuser.

In a centrifugal compressor, air path is radial outward from the center. It enters at the center of the impeller (the eye) and is accelerated outward by the impeller blades, which adds energy to the flow. The high-velocity air then enters the diffuser, where it is slowed down and its kinetic energy is converted into additional static pressure, guiding it toward the discharge or the next stage. This is why entering at the center and moving outward toward the diffuser is the correct description. Air does not enter from the outer edge or bottom and move inward; the design relies on center-entry and outward flow into the diffuser.