On the Concept of the Wave Compressor and Optimal Shock-Wave Structures

Objectives: This paper considers the concept of shock wave compressor in which the compression occurs not in the impeller machine, but in the optimal system of triple shock waves configurations. Methods/Analysis: A review of the works being conducted in the world in this field is provided. The basics of the gas-dynamic discontinuities interference theory are given; the development sequence of the theory of optimal (extreme) shock-wave structures is shown. Findings: The task of designing a new gas compression device - the shock-wave compressor is considered. Differences from other similar devices are discussed. The model air intake tract for the wave compressor is designed. The calculations of the model wave machine are provided. Comparison with multistage axial compressor shows that starting with a compression ratio of 25, the degree of full throating pressure restoration, provided by a shock wave compressor is not smaller than that of an impeller machine. Although, the size and weight of the shock wave compressor is much lower. Novelty/Improvement: Relevant is the task of reducing the size and decreasing the number of stages in the high-pressure compressors of refrigerators and other turbomachinery. Our results allow us to offer the concept of the compressor in which the number of stages is significantly reduced through the use of a gas compression in optimal shock-wave structures. The potential advantage in comparison to the traditional axial compressors is demonstrated.