Lesson plan

Compressor map

A compressor map is a chart which shows the performance of a turbomachinery compressor. This type of compressor is used in gas turbine engines, for supercharging reciprocating engines and for industrial processes, where it is known as a dynamic compressor. A map is created from compressor rig test results or predicted by a special computer program. Alternatively the map of a similar compressor can be suitably scaled. This article is an overview of compressor maps and their different applications and also has detailed explanations of maps for a fan and intermediate and high-pressure compressors from a three-shaft aero-engine as specific examples. Compressor maps are an integral part of predicting the performance of gas turbine and turbocharged engines, both at design and off-design conditions. They also serve a critical purpose in selecting the correct compressors for industrial processes. Fans and turbines also have operating maps, although the latter are significantly different in appearance to that of compressors.

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Article summary

A compressor map is a chart which shows the performance of a turbomachinery compressor. This type of compressor is used in gas turbine engines, for supercharging reciprocating engines and for industrial processes, where it is known as a dynamic compressor. A map is created from compressor rig test results or predicted by a special computer program. Alternatively the map of a similar compressor can be suitably scaled. This article is an overview of compressor maps and their different applications and also has detailed explanations of maps for a fan and intermediate and high-pressure compressors from a three-shaft aero-engine as specific examples. Compressor maps are an integral part of predicting the performance of gas turbine and turbocharged engines, both at design and off-design conditions. They also serve a critical purpose in selecting the correct compressors for industrial processes. Fans and turbines also have operating maps, although the latter are significantly different in appearance to that of compressors.

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  1. Summarise the article in your own words. Which single claim would you verify first, and why?
  2. Which claim in this article is most likely to be revised as the sources update? How would you check its current status?
  3. If two sources disagreed about one of these facts, what would you need in order to trust one over the other?

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