Numerical Analysis of Flow Structure in Reciprocating Compressor

In line with current rapidly developing technology, mechanization in industry is increasing. In this case, all components that form a machine are becoming important. Compressor plays an important role in operations of numerous machineries. They are used for increasing pressure by compressing gas. Compressors have various types and especially in industries such as automotive, textile, and manufacturing, reciprocating compressors are frequently used. Reciprocating compressors consist of cylinder, piston, and crank and connecting rod mechanism. These components work by narrowing the volume inside the cylinder and increasing gas pressure inside. In this study, flow structure inside a reciprocating compressor was numerically analysed. For this purpose, models were created for 2 different crank angles of a reciprocating compressor. Simulations were made for different pipe angles of inlet pipe and outlet pipe. Valve openings were kept constant at 6 mm. Input and output angles of inlet and outlet pipes to cylinder was changed as 0°, 30°, 45°, 60° and 90°. As a result, it was determined that as the angle of inlet and outlet pipes changed, general flow structure inside the cylinder changed as well. Especially, there were differences in velocity vectors plotted for input and output of the flow from valve to cylinder.