Impeller energy storage welding machine

How to manufacture impellers of centrifugal machines?

E-mail: [email protected] Nowadays the impellers of centrifugal machines are manufactured by vacuum brazing, arc welding and braze welding. In order to achieve a more perfect production of impellers the technology of electron beam welding of T-joints of the «disc–blade» type as-applied to impellers of centrifugal machines was developed.

How are pump impellers made?

Furthermore, technology-specific development areas as well as qualification specialties are discussed. The predominant process for the manufacturing of pump impellers is casting . This is particularly applicable for closed pump impeller, as those cannot be milled from a billet due to the high wrapping angle of the impeller channels.

Can a closed impeller be manufactured?

This paper presents how a closed impeller can be manufactured and benefits from the hybrid manufacturing approach. Furthermore, technology-specific development areas as well as qualification specialties are discussed. The predominant process for the manufacturing of pump impellers is casting .

What are the challenges in closed impeller manufacturing?

The most challenging area with respect to closed impeller manufacturing is the milling of the inner cavities which form the impeller channels. Dedicated technologies such as fast feed milling can be used to reduce machining time. For every alloy a specific parameter set has to be developed.

What processes can improve the surface finish of AM generated impellers?

Potential processes to improve the surface finish of AM generated impellers are EDM, ECM (electrochemical machining) and electro polishing. All these processes require specific machines, tools and process knowledge, adding further complexity to the manufacturing process.

How does a centrifugal impeller work?

During operation of the impeller under the action of inertial forces a dust is deposited on the main disc and is pushed out to the perimeter of the impeller under the action of centrifugal forces. Considering the high speeds of impeller rotation, the movement of dust along the inter-blade channels is accompanied by a wear of the blades.