Design methodology and performance analysis of the asymmetric single-tooth claw-type rotor profile

The asymmetric single-tooth claw-shaped rotor profile offers significant potential for the application of oil-free compressors, and enhancing its fluid performance becomes particularly important. This study develops its mathematical generation models and evaluates its performance through geometric analysis and comprehensive computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. A systematic parameter sensitivity analysis is employed to define a reasonable design region for the profile parameters, and a flow optimization-based method is proposed for designing the suction and discharge ports of the claw-type pump. The influence of key geometric parameters on performance characteristics is thoroughly investigated. Results demonstrate that the asymmetric design can increase the discharge port area by up to 58%. Furthermore, a comparative CFD analysis of conventional symmetric and proposed asymmetric profiles is conducted for a typical 2 m3/h oil-free air compressor, examining geometric, thermodynamic, and dynamic performance. The asymmetric profile significantly reduces the load on the synchronous gear, decreases power loss during the discharge process, and effectively mitigates discharge pressure pulsation. Consequently, the volumetric and adiabatic efficiencies of the claw-type pump are improved by 2% and 3.4%, respectively. The application of these methodologies provides effective guidance for the design of claw-type vacuum pumps and compressors.