Effects of Particle Size and Concentration on Erosion Wear and Aerodynamic Performance of a Centrifugal Fan

In the mining and industrial cooling sectors, centrifugal fans often operate under air-solid two-phase flow conditions, which result in severe erosive wear. Such wear markedly reduces fan efficiency and operational lifespan. To mitigate these issues, this study conducts a comprehensive numerical investigation using the Euler–Lagrange approach coupled with the Tabakoff erosion model. The specific impacts of particle size (۰.۰۲–۰.۲۰ mm) and mass concentration (۲–۳۰ mg/m۳) on erosion patterns and fan performance are systematically quantified. The findings indicate that an augmentation in the dimensions of the particles results in a displacement of the primary erosion zone from the blade suction side to the pressure side, thereby leading to an exacerbation of wear on the volute and hub. It has been demonstrated that elevated levels of particulate matter result in a marked increase in the rate of erosion, attributable to a concomitant rise in the frequency of impacts. In comparison with the performance curve of a single-phase centrifugal fan, the presence of dust particles of varying sizes and concentrations has been shown to result in a variable reduction in efficiency. The present study offers valuable assistance for the monitoring of erosion wear in centrifugal fans under harsh conditions, thereby extending their service life.

کلیدواژه ها:

Centrifugal fan ، Air-solid flow ، Erosion mechanisms ، Particle diameter ، Particle concentration ، Aerodynamic performance