Axial compressors consist of multiple rows of circular foils. These foils act together, though only some of the foils will turn. Turning and nonturning foils work together to guide the airflow and increase the pressure. Through the center of the compressor runs a free-turning shaft that is connected to the main power turbines.
A turbine turns the interior shaft, spinning some of the airfoils and pulling air into the compressor. The nonturning foils, also called stators, help to keep the air parallel with the interior shaft.
Air travel has benefited from the invention of the axial compressor, which allows jet engines to work more efficiently. Other industries have been able to utilize these compressors as well. For example, refineries and steel mills use axial compressors for high-pressure air blowers.
