WO2025215237A1 - System for improving the operation of a turbomachine - Google Patents

Abstract

A turbomachine is disclosed, designed for compressing gases such as air, carbon dioxide, hydrogen, and methane, comprises an axially rotating impeller with multiple outlets for pressurizing the gas flow-path. An inlet assembly is in gas-flow communication with the impeller, consisting of an inlet for gas entry, a flow-path duct guiding the fluid towards the impeller, and inlet guide vanes directing the flow into the impeller. Additionally, a scroll collects the gas flow towards outlet process piping, complemented by diffuser guide vanes at the impeller's outlet, guiding the fluid into the scroll. The turbomachine comprises also a control unit, mechanically linked to both the inlet and diffuser guide vanes. This unit is equipped with an actuator to adjust the vanes' angular positions, allowing for optimized flow control and improve operational efficiency.

Description

System for Improving the Operation of a Turbomachine

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of turbomachines, in particular centrifugal compressors. Specifically, the present disclosure concerns a configuration to optimize the operating range of the turbomachine.

[0002] More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a system to act both inlet and diffuser variable guide vanes, for directing the gas respectively towards the impeller and to the volute.

BACKGROUND ART

[0003] Centrifugal compressors are used to compress gaseous fluids in a variety of applications. In general terms, a centrifugal compressor comprises an inlet, at least one impeller, having a plurality of blades extending from a generally axial inlet to a generally tangential outlet of the impeller, and an outlet.

[0004] The centrifugal compressors include variable inlet guide vanes arranged at the inlet of the impeller, and variable diffuser guide vanes arranged at the outlet of the impeller, upstream the scroll, which collects the fluid to exit in the process piping. The variable inlet guide vanes and the variable diffuser guide vanes are controlled by separate actuations systems.

[0005] The actuation system is used to change the angular displacement of the movable vanes to maximize the efficiency of the turbomachine when the operating conditions change.

[0006] Also, in various applications of the centrifugal compressors, the operational range and efficiency are a design requirement. In fact, being centrifugal compressors are widely utilized in numerous industries for their ability to convert rotational kinetic energy into compressive fluid energy, they play an important role in systems requiring gas compression, such as in HVAC systems, turbochargers, and industrial gas turbines. [0007] The Inlet Guide Vanes (IGVs) direct the flow into the compressor in a manner that optimizes the compression process. However, conventional designs, including fixed vane diffusers and vaneless diffusers, have shown limitations in achieving optimal efficiency across all operational points. Fixed vane diffusers, while simple and robust, lack the flexibility to adapt to varying operational conditions, leading to subop- timal performance outside their designed conditions. Similarly, vaneless diffusers, despite offering a degree of flexibility, often fail to provide the necessary control over the flow dynamics, resulting in efficiency losses at certain operating points.

[0008] In fact, centrifugal compressors are often required to operate across a wide range of conditions, dictated by the varying demands of the application. The static conventional guide vane systems cannot adjust to changing conditions, leading to nonoptimized performance and efficiency.

[0009] In light of these challenges, there exists a significant need for innovation in the design of guide vane systems for centrifugal compressors. Also, it would be beneficial to reduce the footprint by simplifying the actuation system, and make assembling thereof easier and faster.

SUMMARY

[0010] The present disclosure concerns an advanced guide vane system for centrifugal compressors, specifically designed to enhance the operational flexibility and efficiency of these critical components in various industrial applications. Specifically, it is disclosed the integration of variable Inlet Guide Vanes (IGV) and Diffuser Guide Vanes (DGV), aimed at broadening the operational range and improves the efficiency of the centrifugal compressors.

[0011] The flapped configuration of the variable vanes, which optimizes the airflow within the compressor and ensures efficient operation of the scroll. This design allows mitigating the risks associated with off-design scroll operation. By enabling the vanes to adapt dynamically to changing operational conditions, the compressor can maintain optimal performance across a wider range of conditions, thereby reducing energy consumption. [0012] Furthermore, the disclosure simplifies the mechanical architecture of centrifugal compressors by employing a single actuator to control both the IGV and DGV. This not only minimizes the footprint and complexity of the guide vane system but also reduces manufacturing and maintenance costs. The streamlined design ensures ease of integration into existing systems and offers a more cost-effective solution for enhancing compressor performance.

[0013] In one aspect, the subject matter disclosed herein concerns a turbomachine designed for the compression of various gases, including air, carbon dioxide, hydrogen, and methane. This turbomachine features a containment body housing an impeller that rotates in an axial direction to pressurize the gas flow-path, with several outlets to allow this process. An inlet assembly in communication with the impeller includes an inlet for gas entry, a flow-path duct to guide the entering fluid towards the impeller, and inlet guide vanes positioned before the impeller to direct the gas flow efficiently towards it. Additionally, the machine is equipped with a scroll to channel the gas flow towards outlet process piping and diffuser guide vanes at the impeller's outlet to steer the fluid into the scroll.

[0014] A further aspect of the present disclosure is drawn to an adjustment unit within the turbomachine, which is mechanically linked to both the inlet and diffuser guide vanes. This unit, when activated, is capable of changing the angular positions of these vanes, thereby allowing for the optimization of the gas flow through the machine. The adjustment unit comprises an actuator which, upon activation, allows this angular modification of the vanes.

[0015] In another aspect, disclosed herein is a configuration within the turbomachine where the control unit comprises a rotating guiding member set into motion by an actuator. The guiding member is supported by a structure that allows for its rotation, which is then connected to the inlet and diffuser guide vanes through first and second lever assemblies, respectively. The rotation of this guiding member by the actuator adjusts the position of these vanes.

[0016] Disclosed herein is also the incorporation of an electric motor as the actuator within the turbomachine, for controlling the vane positions. Furthermore, the design includes a first lever assembly composed of two interconnected levers for transmitting motion from the rotating guiding member to the inlet guide vanes.

[0017] A further aspect of the present disclosure involves the turbomachine's control unit, which comprises a linkage connected to both the inlet and diffuser guide vanes. This linkage, actuated by the connected actuator, is specifically shaped to adjust the position of these vanes upon activation, thereby adjusting the gas flow path for optimal machine performance.

[0018] Additionally, the turbomachine comprises a control logic unit linked to the actuator. This unit is programmed to control the adjustment unit to ensure the turbomachine operates at peak efficiency, taking into account various operational parameters and environmental conditions.

[0019] Each inlet guide vane within the turbomachine is designed with a stem that is rotatably coupled to a stator element, and a movable blade fixed to this stem. The blade is designed to pivot or rotate about its stem, allowing for precise control over the direction and characteristics of the gas flow entering the impeller, further contributing to the machine’s efficiency and adaptability in various applications.

[0020] Each diffuser guide vane within the turbomachine is designed with a stem that is rotatably coupled to a stator element, and a movable blade fixed to this stem. The blade is designed to pivot or rotate about its stem, allowing for precise control over the direction and characteristics of the gas flow exiting the impeller, further contributing to the machine’s efficiency and adaptability in various applications.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] A more complete appreciation of the disclosed embodiments of the invention and the advantages thereof will be readily obtained by reading the following detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

Fig. 1 illustrates a sectional view of a portion of a turbomachine according to a first embodiment;

Fig. 2 illustrates a perspective of sectional view of the turbomachine of Fig. 1;

Fig. 3 illustrates the connection of a control unit and an actuator of the turbomachine of Fig. 1; Fig. 4 illustrates the operating field in a pressure ratio/flow rate graph; and Fig. 5 illustrates a perspective of sectional view of the turbomachine according to a second embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] The present invention discloses a novel system to control the variable guide vane angular displacement simultaneously at inlet of the impeller and at the outlet thereof.

[0023] The present disclosure concerns a turbomachine designed to increase the pressure of gases like air, carbon dioxide, hydrogen, and methane. It consists of a main body holding a spinning part, i.e. an impeller, which compresses the gas. There's also an entry section where the gas enters and is guided towards the impeller, and a series of adjustable blades at the entrance and exit to control the gas flow. Additionally, there's a part called a scroll that gathers the compressed gas and sends it out through pipes. A special control unit with a moving part can adjust the blades to manage how the gas moves through the machine, to optimize the performance.

[0024] Referring now to the Figures 1, and 2, a turbomachine 1 is shown in several views. The turbomachine 1 is designed primarily for compressing a fluid, such as air. This turbomachine 1 provides enhanced efficiency and improved control over the fluid flow-path F as it passes through various sections of the same.

[0025] The turbomachine 1 comprises a containment body 2. The containment body 2 is a protective housing for the turbomachine 1 internal components, as well as for absorbing and dispersing the mechanical vibrations of the moving parts while operating.

[0026] Within this containment body 2, an impeller 3 and an inlet assembly 4 are arranged. The impeller 3 is capable of rotating about an axial direction A. As the impeller 3 rotates, it pressurizes the fluid that enters into it, accelerating the fluid and increasing its pressure. The design considerations for this impeller 3 might vary based on the desired application, with some alternatives including radial, axial, and mixed-flow designs.

[0027] The turbomachine 1 further comprises an inlet assembly 4, positioned, as mentioned, within the body 2. The inlet assembly 4 guides and prepares the fluid to be compressed before it enters into the impeller 3.

[0028] The inlet assembly 4 has an inlet 41 that allows a fluid, like air, to be pulled into turbomachine 1. Following the inlet 41, the gas flow is guided by a flow-path duct 42. The flow-path duct 42 acts as a guiding pathway, directing the fluid towards the impeller 3 in a controlled manner.

[0029] The inlet assembly 4 also comprises a stator element 43, which defines the flow-path duct 42. The stator element 43 is a stationary component. It helps to define the flow-path duct 42 and stabilize the flow of fluid as it approaches the impeller 3. Integrated into this stator element 43 are one or more inlet guide vanes 44. Each inlet guide vane 44 is movable and comprises a stem 441 and a movable blade 442. The stem 441 is coupled to the stator element 43. The inlet guide vane 44 is rotatably coupled to the stator element 43 and can adjust its position. This movement allows the inlet guide vanes 44 to deviate or adjust the fluid flow-path's direction before it enters the impeller 3, giving the machine operators better control over the fluid's incidence angle upon the impeller 3. From tests, it turned out that varying the incidence angle, according to specific algorithms or formulas, an improved compression efficiency of the impeller 3 is achieved.

[0030] The movable blade 442 of the inlet guide vanes 44 are contained in the flowpath duct 42, converging toward the center, namely toward the axial direction A.

[0031] For some turbomachines, the inlet assembly 4 might include a head flange 45, fixed to the containment body 2. Said head flange 45 envelopes the stator element 43 and defines a circular inlet 451 for the fluid's entrance.

[0032] In some embodiments, the stem 441 of each inlet guide vanes 44 is oriented radially within the stator element 43.

[0033] Furthermore, the stem 441 of each inlet guide vane 44 is engaged with a bush 443. The stem 441 is constrained by a bolt 444, as shown in Fig. 2. The movable blade 442 rotates and is associated with the stem 441. The axis of each stem 441 is perpendicular to the axial direction A of the inlet assembly 4. Specifically, considering a cross-section of the flow-path duct 42, a circle is obtained, wherein the axial direction A passes through the center, while each stem 441 lays on a radius of the circle. [0034] In the embodiment shown, the inlet assembly 4 comprises an ogive 46, which is arranged along the axial direction A, and one or more fixed blades 47.

[0035] The ogive 46, when combined with the fixed blades 47, can optimize the flow of fluid. Each fixed blade can interact with the fluid flow-path F, with its design attributes yet to be detailed producing specific technical effects that further improve the machine performance.

[0036] The fixed blades 47 have both the function of dividing the gas flow F before it reaches the inlet guide vanes 44, as well as a structural function, connecting the ogive 46 to the stator element 43.

[0037] The number of fixed blades 47 is variable. The fixed blades 47 have also a structural function, supporting the ogive 46 (such fixed blades 47 operate as struts). Said fixed blades 47 have an aerodynamic function because they direct the gas towards a respective movable blade 442.

[0038] During operation, as the fluid enters through the inlet 41, it initially encounters the ogive 46 and the fixed blades 47. These components further condition the flow, ensuring a smooth and controlled delivery to the impeller 3.

[0039] Also, while passing through the flow-path duct 42, as mentioned before, the gas flow F accelerates and possible turbulences can occur. To reduce such turbulences, in addition to the effect of the ogive 46 and the fixed blades 47, the inlet guide vanes 44 deviate the fluid gas flow F. Specifically, depending on the requirements, the movable blades 442 of said inlet guide vanes 44 can adjust their position, influencing the fluid's flow direction and the angle of incidence upon the impeller 3, at its entrance 31. This adjustable system ensures optimal interaction between the fluid and the impeller 3, maximizing or improving the efficiency of the impeller 3 itself.

[0040] Adjusting the angle of the gas flow F at the entrance of an impeller 3 has several benefits. In particular, modifying the gas flow F angle can help optimize the efficiency of the impeller 3, by ensuring that the air enters the blades at an optimal angle, reducing losses due to drag and friction.

[0041] Also, adjusting the angle of the gas flow F can enhance the pressure distribution across the impeller 3, which can lead to improved performance and reduced wear on the impeller blades, thereby extending the lifespan of the impeller 3. Also changing the angle of the gas flow F can allow for adjustments to the flow rate through the impeller 3. This is needed in applications where varying flow rates are needed for different operations or conditions.

[0042] Another advantage of adjusting the angle of the gas flow F is that it enhances the aerodynamic performance of the impeller 3 by reducing undesired effects such as flow separation, turbulence, and vortices, leading to smoother and more efficient operation.

[0043] The turbomachine 1 also comprises diffuser guide vanes (DGVs) 5, designed to manage the flow of the gas flow F as it exits the impeller 3. The diffuser guide vanes 5 are arranged in the diffuser section, which is the part of the machine where the flow area expands, slowing down the fluid and converting some of the fluid's dynamic pressure into static pressure, thereby increasing the overall pressure of the turbomachine 1.

[0044] Each diffuser guide vane 5 is movable and comprises a stem 51 and a movable blade 52. The stem 51 is coupled to the rotating element 62 by the link 67. The blade 52 is located within the diffuser and its position can be adjusted by an actuator.

[0045] The diffuser guide vanes 5 help in directing the flow smoothly from the impeller 3 exit towards the compressor or turbine exit or the next stage in multi-stage machines. By optimizing the flow path and reducing flow separation and turbulence in the diffuser, the diffuser guide vanes 5 help in improving the overall efficiency of the turbomachine. This is particularly important in applications where energy efficiency is critical, such as in power generation.

[0046] The turbomachine 1 also comprises a scroll 53, also known as a volute, which is a spiral-shaped passage to collect the fluid discharged by the impeller 3 and guide it towards the exit, i.e. a discharge pipe or diffuser. The scroll is connected to a relevant pipe 54. Also, the primary function of the scroll 53is to convert the kinetic energy of the gas flow F coming out of the impeller 3 into pressure energy efficiently, facilitating a smooth transition from the high-velocity, low-pressure flow at the impeller 3 exit to a lower-velocity, higher-pressure flow at the compressor or pump outlet (not shown in the figures). [0047] The connection between the scroll 53 and diffuser guide vanes 5 in turbomachines 1 ensures an efficient flow management and energy conversion. Specifically, after the gas flow F exits the impeller 3, it passes through the diffuser guide vanes 5, which help in directing and controlling the gas flow F before it enters the scroll 53. The diffuser guide vanes 5 can adjust the gas flow angle and velocity, ensuring that the gas flow F enters the scroll 53 in a controlled manner, for an efficient energy conversion within the scroll 53.

[0048] The diffuser guide vanes 5 minimize the gas flow F separation and turbulence as the gas flow F exits the impeller 3 and enters the scroll 53.

[0049] In addition, the gradually increasing cross-sectional area of the scroll 51 allows for a gradual deceleration of the gas flow F, allowing the pressure recovery. The diffuser guide vanes 5 contribute to this process by preparing the gas flow F for efficient deceleration and pressure recovery within the scroll 53.

[0050] The turbomachine 1 according to the present disclosure comprises also a control unit 6, comprising an actuator 61, which, in a preferred embodiment, is an electric motor, a rotating guiding member 62, rotatably mounted on a support 63. The control unit 6 also comprises a first lever assembly 64, comprising two levers 641 and 642, connecting the rotating guiding member 62 and the inlet guide vanes 44.

[0051] The control unit 6 also comprises a second lever assembly 65, connecting the rotating guiding member 62 and the diffuser guide vanes 5.

[0052] To control the control unit 6, the turbomachine 1 comprises a control logic unit U connected to the actuator 61 (see Figure 3).

[0053] Specifically, the control logic unit U can be implemented within various digital platforms, such as microprocessors or FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) devices. As known the function of the control logic unit U is to execute instructions to implement an algorithm passed, generating control signals to drive the electric actuators 61.

[0054] For FPGA implementations, the logic can be reconfigured using hardware description languages like VHDL or Verilog. This provides users the ability to program the control logic unit U to meet specific application requirements, without the need for significant hardware changes. Optimization techniques have been employed in the design of the control logic unit U to ensure minimal propagation delay and reduced power consumption.

[0055] The control logic unit U can comprise also standard communication interfaces, such as SPI (Serial Peripheral Interface) or I2C (Inter-Integrated Circuit), to facilitate easy communication with other digital parts of the turbomachine 1.

[0056] As to the control of the actuator 61, some embodiments might incorporate advanced algorithms in the control unit U and control algorithms in an onboard microcontroller, so that the control logic unit U can dynamically adjust the inlet guide vanes 44 and the diffuser guide vanes 5 position in real-time, depending on the operational circumstances.

[0057] The operation of the control unit 6 is as follows.

[0058] The actuator 61 moves the rotating guiding member 62, which causes, in its turn and at the same time, the moving of the first lever assembly 64, which varies the position of the inlet guide vanes 44 and in particular of the movable blades 442, and of the second lever assembly 65, which varies the position of the diffuser guide vanes 5. The adjustment of the movable blades 442 and of the diffuser guide vanes 5 is simultaneous, being connected to the same mechanical chain.

[0059] Specifically, the adjustment of the movable blades 442 of the inlet guide vanes 44 causes them to rotate about a specified axis, helping fine-tune the gas flow’s F entry angle upon the impeller 3.

[0060] Fig. 4 shows a graph having in the abscissa the normalized flow coefficient ratio (p/(p* (or phi/phi*), and in the ordinates the pressure ratio. The flow coefficient (p* is at design conditions. The flow coefficient indicates the flow rate at impeller 3 outlet as a function of tip speed.

[0061] The graph shows three closed curves. The curve Cl is the operating field curve in case of only the inlet guide vanes 44 are adjusted, the curve C2 is the operating field curve in case of both the inlet guide vanes 44, and the diffuser guide vanes 5 are adjusted, independently, and finally the curve C3 is the operating field curve in case of both the inlet guide vanes 44, and the diffuser guide vanes 5 are adjusted, but non in an independent way, in accordance with the present disclosure. The greater is the areas covered by each curve, the greater is the operating range.

[0062] As it can be appreciated, curve C2 covers a larger surface then the curve Cl, showing that adjusting the inlet guide vanes 44, and the diffuser guide vanes 5 improves the operation of the turbomachine 1. In the case of curve C2, the inlet guide vanes 44 and the diffuser guide vanes 5 are adjusted in an independent way, which requires computation resources and design complications.

[0063] The curve C3 shows the performance of the turbomachine 1 in case the inlet guide vanes 44 and the diffuser guide vanes 5 are adjusted by the control unit 6, which adjust either the inlet guide vanes 44 and the diffuser guide vanes 5 with a the first lever assembly 64 and the second lever assembly 65 that are mechanically connected and controlled by a single actuator 61, thus considering a single degree of freedom of control.

[0064] As it can be appreciated, the area within C3 is quite similar to that of C2, showing that the arrangement according to the present disclosure allows to achieve optimal performances with a simplified design.

[0065] Referring now to Fig. 5, the control unit 6 of the turbomachine 1 comprises a linkage 66, arranged to establish a mechanical connection between the inlet guide vanes 44 and the diffuser guide vanes 5.

[0066] This linkage 66 is actuated by the actuator 61, which, upon receiving the control signal by the control unit U, actuates the linkage 66. The linkage 66 is configured such that its actuation causes a coordinated adjustment of both the inlet guide vanes 44 and the diffuser guide vanes 5. This adjustment, as mentioned, allows optimizing the gas flow F through the turbomachine 1, thereby enhancing its efficiency.

[0067] The linkage 66 of the adjustment unit connected to the inlet guide vanes 44 and to the diffuser guide vanes 5 provides a coordinated adjustment between the angular position of the inlet guide vanes 44 and the diffuser guide vanes 5, providing a relative movement (or change of angle) which can be even non-linear, or according to a specific function, which coordinates the opening or closing of such angular position of the inlet guide vanes 44 and of the diffuser guide vanes 5 to achieve functioning benefits, as described with reference to Fig. 4.

ADVANTAGES

[0068] An advantage of the present disclosure is that it significantly improve the flexibility of the compressor system. By incorporating the control of the variable inlet guide vanes and the diffuser guide vanes, the disclosed machine can adapt more dynamically to changing operational needs. Such a flexibility ensures that the compressor can efficiently operate across a broader range of conditions, thereby accommodating diverse application requirements and improving system adaptability.

[0069] Another advantage of the present disclosure is the capability to more precisely control the machine in terms of efficiency. The innovative integration of flapped variable vanes, controlled by a singular actuation mechanism, allows for fine-tuned adjustments to the airflow within the compressor. This capability ensures optimal alignment of the compressor's performance with the desired efficiency targets, effectively reducing the energy consumption.

[0070] A further advantage of the present disclosure is the increased turndown capability it provides. The advanced guide vane system allows the compressor to operate efficiently at lower capacities, expanding its operational range without compromising performance. This increased turndown capability is particularly beneficial in applications where demand varies significantly, ensuring that the compressor remains efficient even under reduced load conditions.

[0071] Lastly, an advantage of the present disclosure is the innovative design of the single actuation mechanism that can engage different blade counter-positions effectively, thus simplifying the mechanical design and reducing the complexity and potential points of failure within the system.

[0072] While aspects of the invention have been described in terms of various specific embodiments, it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that many modifications, changes, and omissions are possible without departing form the spirt and scope of the claims. In addition, unless specified otherwise herein, the order or sequence of any process or method steps may be varied or re-sequenced according to alternative embodiments. [0073] Reference has been made in detail to embodiments of the disclosure, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the disclosure, not limitation of the disclosure. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present disclosure without departing from the scope or spirit of the disclosure. Reference throughout the specification to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" or “some embodiments” means that the particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the subject matter disclosed. Thus, the appearance of the phrase "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" or "in some embodiments" in various places throughout the specification is not necessarily referring to the same embodiment(s). Further, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.

[0074] When elements of various embodiments are introduced, the articles “a”, “an”, “the”, and “said” are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements. The terms “comprising”, “including”, and “having” are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements.

[0075] The subject matter described herein can be implemented in digital electronic circuitry, or in computer software, firmware, or hardware, including the structural means disclosed in this specification and structural equivalents thereof, or in combinations of them. The subject matter described herein can be implemented as one or more computer program products, such as one or more computer programs tangibly embodied in an information carrier (e.g., in a machine-readable storage device), or embodied in a propagated signal, for execution by, or to control the operation of, data processing apparatus (e.g., a programmable processor, a computer, or multiple computers). A computer program (also known as a program, software, software application, or code) can be written in any form of programming language, including compiled or interpreted languages, and it can be deployed in any form, including as a stand-alone program or as a module, component, subroutine, or other unit suitable for use in a computing environment. A computer program does not necessarily correspond to a file. A program can be stored in a portion of a file that holds other programs or data, in a single file dedicated to the program in question, or in multiple coordinated files (e.g., files that store one or more modules, sub-programs, or portions of code). A computer program can be deployed to be executed on one computer or on multiple computers at one site or distributed across multiple sites and interconnected by a communication network.

[0076] The processes and logic flows described in this specification, including the method steps of the subject matter described herein, can be performed by one or more programmable processors executing one or more computer programs to perform functions of the subject matter described herein by operating on input data and generating output. The processes and logic flows can also be performed by, and apparatus of the subject matter described herein can be implemented as, special purpose logic circuitry, e.g., an FPGA (field programmable gate array) or an ASIC (application-specific integrated circuit).

[0077] Processors suitable for the execution of a computer program include, by way of example, both general and special purpose microprocessors, and any one or more processors of any kind of digital computer. Generally, a processor will receive instructions and data from a read-only memory, or a random access memory, or both. The essential elements of a computer are a processor for executing instructions and one or more memory devices for storing instructions and data. Generally, a computer will also include, or be operatively coupled to receive data from or transfer data to, or both, one or more mass storage devices for storing data, e.g., magnetic, magneto-optical disks, or optical disks. Information carriers suitable for embodying computer program instructions and data include all forms of non-volatile memory, including by way of example semiconductor memory devices, (e.g., EPROM, EEPROM, and flash memory devices); magnetic disks, (e.g., internal hard disks or removable disks); magneto-optical disks; and optical disks (e.g., CD and DVD disks). The processor and the memory can be supplemented by, or incorporated in, special purpose logic circuitry.

[0078] To provide for interaction with a user, the subject matter described herein can be implemented on a computer having a display device, e.g., a CRT (cathode ray tube) or LCD (liquid crystal display) monitor, for displaying information to the user and a keyboard and a pointing device, (e.g., a mouse or a trackball), by which the user can provide input to the computer. Other kinds of devices can be used to provide for interaction with a user as well. For example, feedback provided to the user can be any form of sensory feedback, (e.g., visual feedback, auditory feedback, or tactile feedback), and input from the user can be received in any form, including acoustic, speech, or tactile input.

[0079] The techniques described herein can be implemented using one or more modules. As used herein, the term “module” refers to computing software, firmware, hardware, and/or various combinations thereof. At a minimum, however, modules are not to be interpreted as software that is not implemented on hardware, firmware, or recorded on a non-transitory processor readable recordable storage medium (i.e., modules are not software per se). Indeed “module” is to be interpreted to always include at least some physical, non-transitory hardware such as a part of a processor or computer. Two different modules can share the same physical hardware (e.g., two different modules can use the same processor and network interface). The modules described herein can be combined, integrated, separated, and/or duplicated to support various applications. Also, a function described herein as being performed at a particular module can be performed at one or more other modules and/or by one or more other devices instead of or in addition to the function performed at the particular module. Further, the modules can be implemented across multiple devices and/or other components local or remote to one another. Additionally, the modules can be moved from one device and added to another device, and/or can be included in both devices.

[0080] The subj ect matter described herein can be implemented in a computing system that includes a back-end component (e.g., a data server), a middleware component (e.g., an application server), or a front-end component (e.g., a client computer having a graphical user interface or a web browser through which a user can interact with an implementation of the subject matter described herein), or any combination of such back-end, middleware, and front-end components. The components of the system can be interconnected by any form or medium of digital data communication, e.g., a communication network. Examples of communication networks include a local area network (“LAN”) and a wide area network (“WAN”), e.g., the Internet.

Claims

1. A turbomachine (1) for compressing a fluid, such as air, carbon dioxide, hydrogen, and/or methane, comprising: a containment body (2); an impeller (3), rotating along an axial direction for pressurizing the gas flowpath (F), housed within the containment body (2) and having a plurality of outlets; and an inlet assembly (4) in gas-flow communication with the impeller (3), wherein the inlet assembly (4) comprises: an inlet (451), through which the gas flow to be pressurized can enter; a flow-path duct (42), configured to guide the fluid that enters through the inlet (451) of the intake conduit toward the impeller (3); and one or more inlet guide vanes (44), located ahead of the impeller (3), adapted to direct the gas flow (F) to the impeller (3); and a scroll (53), adapted to collect gas flow (F) towards outlet process piping (52); and one or more discharge guide vanes (5), each one arranged at the outlet of the impeller (3), and configured to direct the fluid to the scroll (53); characterized in that the turbomachine (1) comprises an adjustment unit (6), mechanically connected to the inlet guide vanes (44) and the diffuser guide vanes (5), configured, when actuated, to change the angular position of the inlet guide vanes (44) and the diffuser guide vanes (5), wherein the control unit (6) comprises an actuator (61), which, when actuated, causes the change the angular position of the inlet guide vanes (44) and the diffuser guide vanes (5), and wherein the adjustment unit (6) comprises a linkage (66) connected to the inlet guide vanes (44) and to the diffuser guide vanes (5), that provides a coordinated adjustment between the angular position of the inlet guide vanes (44) and the diffuser guide vanes (5).

2. The turbomachine (1) of claim 1, the wherein the control unit (6) comprises: a rotating guiding member (62), configured to be rotated upon the operation of the actuator (61); a support (63), on which the rotating guiding member (62) is rotatably mounted; a first lever assembly (64), connecting the rotating guiding element (62) and the inlet guide vanes (44); and a second lever assembly (65), connecting the rotating guiding member (62) and the diffuser guide vanes (5); wherein upon the rotation of the rotating guiding member (62) by the actuator (61), the rotation of the rotating guiding member (62) causes the adjustment of inlet guide vanes (44) and the diffuser guide vanes (5).

3. The turbomachine (1) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the actuator (61) is an electric motor.

4. The turbomachine (1) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first lever assembly (64) comprises two connected levers (641 and 642).

5. The turbomachine (1) of claim 1, wherein the actuator (61) is connected to the linkage (66), to actuate it, wherein, the linkage (66) is shaped to move the inlet guide vanes (44) and the diffuser guide vanes (5), and wherein upon the actuation of the linkage (66) by the actuator (61), the inlet guide vanes (44) and the diffuser guide vanes (5) are adjusted.

6. The turbomachine (1) of any one of the preceding claims, comprising a control logic unit (U) connected to the actuator (61), wherein control logic unit (U) is configured to control the control unit (6) to achieve an optimal operation of the turbomachine (1).

7. The turbomachine (1) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein each inlet guide vane (44) comprises: a stem (441), rotatably coupled to the stator element (43); a movable blade (442) fixed to the stem (441), pivoted or rotated about a relevant stem (443).

8. The turbomachine (1) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein each diffuser guide (5) comprises: a stem (51) connected to the rotating guide element (62) by link (67); and a movable blade (52) located in the diffuser and fixed to the stem (51), and pivoted or rotated about a relevant stem (51).