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 airflow to eliminate turbulence
• B. To direct the flow of gases into the combustion chambers
• C. To increase air swirling motion into the combustion chambers
• D. To reduce the temperature of the compressed air

Answer: (A)

Stator vanes at the discharge end of an axial-flow compressor are there to straighten the flow after it exits the rotor. The rotor blades impart swirl to the air, and the fixed vanes are angled to redirect that swirling motion into a mostly axial direction. This removes the unwanted swirl, producing a smoother, more uniform flow that improves efficiency and helps the air enter the next stage (or diffuser) with the right direction and velocity. Directing flow into the combustion chambers is not the stator’s job—the compressor discharge feeds the diffuser and then the combustor via ducting. Increasing swirling motion would reduce efficiency, which is opposite to what the stator does. Reducing temperature isn’t a function of the stator; compression raises temperature, with cooling handled elsewhere.

Stator vanes at the discharge end of an axial-flow compressor are there to straighten the flow after it exits the rotor. The rotor blades impart swirl to the air, and the fixed vanes are angled to redirect that swirling motion into a mostly axial direction. This removes the unwanted swirl, producing a smoother, more uniform flow that improves efficiency and helps the air enter the next stage (or diffuser) with the right direction and velocity.

Directing flow into the combustion chambers is not the stator’s job—the compressor discharge feeds the diffuser and then the combustor via ducting. Increasing swirling motion would reduce efficiency, which is opposite to what the stator does. Reducing temperature isn’t a function of the stator; compression raises temperature, with cooling handled elsewhere.