What is the function of the stator vane assembly at the discharge end of a typical axial-flow compressor?

What is the function of the stator vane assembly at the discharge end of a typical axial-flow compressor?

• A. To straighten the airflow to eliminate turbulence
• B. To increase airflow swirl
• C. To compress the air
• D. To cool the air

Answer: (A)

Discharge stator vanes are there to reorient the swirling air produced by the rotor into an axial flow. The rotor blades impart swirl to the gas, and if that swirl isn’t removed, the flow remains misaligned as it moves to the next stage or into the diffuser, causing losses and inefficiency. The fixed stator vanes redirect the air so its velocity is aligned with the compressor axis, effectively straightening the flow and reducing turbulence. This not only smooths the flow into the next stage but also helps convert some of the dynamic energy into static pressure, improving overall efficiency. They don’t primarily compress or cool the air, and they actively oppose swirl rather than increase it.

Discharge stator vanes are there to reorient the swirling air produced by the rotor into an axial flow. The rotor blades impart swirl to the gas, and if that swirl isn’t removed, the flow remains misaligned as it moves to the next stage or into the diffuser, causing losses and inefficiency. The fixed stator vanes redirect the air so its velocity is aligned with the compressor axis, effectively straightening the flow and reducing turbulence. This not only smooths the flow into the next stage but also helps convert some of the dynamic energy into static pressure, improving overall efficiency. They don’t primarily compress or cool the air, and they actively oppose swirl rather than increase it.