Date of Graduation

12-2019

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering

Degree Level

Undergraduate

Department

Mechanical Engineering

Advisor/Mentor

Huang, Po-Hao Adam

Committee Member/Reader

Roberts, Monty

Abstract

Turbomolecular pumps designed to function in very low pressures tend to be too prohibitively expensive for student researchers. On the other hand, while conventional pumps are affordable, they can’t function in extreme low pressures. An additively manufactured axial compressor however is inexpensive to manufacturer and only needs to be build up enough pressure for a conventional pump to function. After many design iterations, a final iteration that is near vacuum chamber ready has been 3D printed and tested for spin functionally. The designed axial compressor is easy to assemble and very modular. Conclusions from each of the design iterations is also aimed at assisting future student researchers seeking to pursue this endeavor. Although vacuum chamber testing did not take place, all the necessary components for a vacuum chamber test have been identified.

Keywords

axial; compressor; plastic; additive; manufacturing; pump

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