Original Paper Effects of Acoustic Resonance and Volute Geometry on Phase Resonance in a Centrifugal Fan

The effects of acoustic resonance and volute geometry on phase resonance are studied theoretically and experimentally using a centrifugal fan. One dimensional theoretical model is developed taking account of the reflection from the discharge pipe end. It was found that the phase resonance occurs, even with the effects of acoustic resonance, when the rotational speed of rotor-stator interaction pattern agrees with the sound velocity. This was confirmed by experiments with and without a silencer at the discharge pipe exit. The pressure wave measurements showed that there are certain effects of the cross-sectional area change of the volute which is neglected in the one dimensional model. To clarify the effects of area change, experiments were carried out by using a ring volute with a constant area. It was demonstrated that the phase resonance occurs for both interaction modes travelling towards/away from the volute. The amplitude of travelling wave grows towards the volute exit for the modes rotating towards the volute exit, in the same direction as the impeller. However, a standing wave is developed in the volute for the modes rotating away from the volute exit in the opposite direction as the impeller, as a result of the interaction of a growing wave while travellin