Compressor Design Workflow in SolidWorks#

1. Initial Profile Sketch
   • Sketch the blade profiles and compressor housing on a reference plane.
   • Define the basic geometry and curvature of the blades.
2. Revolve Feature
   • Apply the Revolve tool to the initial sketch to generate the primary 3D impeller body.
3. Blade Creation
   • Use the Loft feature to model each individual blade.
   • Ensure that blade geometry promotes efficient radial flow and minimizes recirculation.
4. Blade Pattern
   • Employ the Circular Pattern tool to replicate the lofted blade around the central axis.
   • Verify uniform angular spacing to maintain aerodynamic balance.
5. Finishing & Refinement
   • Apply Fillet features to smooth sharp edges and eliminate stress risers.
   • Add any final detail features (e.g., chamfers, draft angles) to prepare the part for manufacture.

Additive Manufacturing: Benefits of 3D Printing#

• Rapid Prototyping
  • Produce functional prototypes quickly to validate aerodynamic performance.
  • Facilitate iterative design modifications without high tooling costs.
• Cost Efficiency
  • Reduce material waste compared to subtractive machining.
  • Eliminate the need for specialized jigs, fixtures, and extensive machining setups.
• Design Flexibility
  • Realize complex internal geometries and passageways that would be challenging with traditional CNC methods.
  • Integrate lightweight lattice structures to optimize strength-to-weight ratio.
• Time Savings
  • Shorten development cycles by consolidating multiple components into a single printed assembly.
  • Accelerate time to market through on-demand part production.

Fig#