But for complete diagnosis, she directed him to the in Peng’s Appendix B. This nomogram links specific speed to optimal machine shape. Low (N_s) (100-500) → radial turbines/pumps. Medium (N_s) (500-800) → mixed-flow. High (N_s) (800-2000+) → axial.
William W. Peng’s work has seen several printings (often through Krieger Publishing). While the core physics haven't changed in 50 years, be aware: Fundamentals Of Turbomachinery By William W Peng
“Leo,” she imagined saying, “forget the steel. Think of the fluid as a particle riding a roller coaster. Every turbomachine—pump, turbine, compressor, fan—answers one question: How do we exchange energy between a solid rotor and a moving fluid?” But for complete diagnosis, she directed him to
Turbomachinery is notoriously difficult for self-study. Discussing Peng’s end-of-chapter problems (he provides solutions to odd numbers in an appendix) helps clarify misconceptions. Medium (N_s) (500-800) → mixed-flow
Most texts focus heavily on gas turbines or pumps. Peng covers the full spectrum, including gas, steam, wind, and hydraulic turbines, as well as fans, blowers, and compressors. Bridge Between Theory and Reality:
While not as mathematically deep as Dixon’s "Fluid Mechanics and Thermodynamics of Turbomachinery," Peng’s book provides a better physical foundation before moving to computational fluid dynamics (CFD). Many professors assign Peng as a preliminary reading before tackling advanced texts.