Design and Testing of CO2 Compression Using Supersonic Shockware Technology

Abstract

Documentation of work performed by Ramgen and subcontractors in pursuit of design and construction of a 10 MW supersonic CO 2 compressor and supporting facility. The compressor will demonstrate application of Ramgen's supersonic compression technology at an industrial scale using CO 2 in a closed-loop.The report includes details of early feasibility studies, CFD validation and comparison to experimental data, static test experimental results, compressor and facility design and analyses, and development of aero tools. Executive SummaryRamgen is designing, building and testing a novel CO 2 compressor demonstrator capable of providing 10:1 single-stage pressure ratio for CO 2 sequestration applications. The project will demonstrate that Ramgen's supersonic compression technology is more efficient and less expensive than other compression options available in the foreseeable future.This report documents work performed by Ramgen and subcontractors in pursuit of design and construction of a 10 MW supersonic CO 2 compressor and supporting facility. The compressor will demonstrate application of Ramgen's supersonic compression technology at an industrial scale using CO 2 in a closed-loop environment.A comprehensive Configuration/Feasibility Study was conducted, concluding with a Large Machine Feasibility Review. The review addressed mechanical issues including rotor and static structure, rotordynamics, seals and bearings, drivetrain, controls and instrumentation, maintenance and access, and compressor layout. Aero focus included all static and rotating aerodynamics, supersonic starting, efficient CFD workflow and system performance. After closing out action items from this review, the demonstration unit design was declared feasible and authorization was given for Engineering to proceed into Preliminary Design with the selected rotor configuration.Extensive numerical predictions of complex 3D shock wave / boundary layer interactions were performed to test ability of the numerical algorithms employed to capture complex 3D turbulent boundary layer separation phenomena observed in experiments. These simulations were performed for linear or static configurations, rather than rotating, due to the availability of linear test data. Static and rotating tests were undertaken at the Naval Postgraduate School to investigate the effects of boundary layer control methods on shock-boundary layer interaction.While not yet complete, the results so far indicate very good CFD correlation with experimental data in the critical interaction regions.Ramgen contracted with Michigan State University's Turbomachinery Laboratory to experimentally investigate vaned diffuser designs under high Mach number and high flow angle operating conditions. MSU's existing test rig made them a strong candidate for this test. The program's first phase was to evaluate and confirm feasibility of achieving relevant Mach and flow angles with a new rotor design. Unfortunately, the feasibility study was unable to identify a test rotor design capable of produ...