rotorvane

A rotor vane, commonly called a rotary vane, is a sliding vane mounted on a rotor used in a class of rotary machines such as vane pumps, vane motors, and certain turbines. The vane sits in a slot in the rotor and remains in contact with the inner surface of a cylindrical stator, forming sealed chambers as the rotor rotates. This arrangement enables changing volumes within the chamber, which drives fluid flow or converts hydraulic or pneumatic energy into mechanical energy.

In operation, the vane is pressed against the stator wall by centrifugal force or by a spring. As the rotor turns, the eccentric relationship between rotor and stator causes the space between adjacent vanes to expand and contract. During suction, fluid fills the expanding chambers; during discharge, fluid is trapped between vanes and expelled as the chambers compress. In motors, electrical energy is converted into rotational motion with the vane seals helping to convert flow and pressure into torque. In turbines or engines, fluid flow can push the vanes to impart rotation.

Design and construction vary but typically involve metal or polymer vanes mounted in slots with a relatively smooth stator surface. Vanes may be spring-loaded or rely on centrifugal force, and most assemblies use multiple vanes (often three to six). The system may be dry or oil-flooded, and lubrication is used to reduce wear and extend life.

Common applications include rotary vane vacuum pumps, oil-flooded vacuum systems, air compressors, hydraulic and pneumatic motors, and power steering and other automotive pumps. Maintenance focuses on vane wear and slot clearance, as worn vanes or worn slots reduce efficiency and sealing performance.