The invention presents a bladeless fluid propulsion system that transfers energy through the natural properties of the fluid instead of using conventional blades or vanes. Rather than forcing the fluid to change direction abruptly, the design allows it to follow smooth spiral paths between a series of closely spaced rotating discs. The fluid adheres to the disc surfaces due to viscosity and boundary-layer effects, gradually accelerating while minimizing turbulence and energy losses. This results in a simpler mechanical design with fewer moving parts and improved operational efficiency.
The CAD model illustrates the practical implementation of Tesla's concept. A stack of parallel circular discs is mounted on a central shaft and enclosed within a volute casing. Fluid enters near the center of the rotor, moves outward in a spiral path between the discs, and exits through the tangential outlet. Unlike conventional centrifugal pumps that rely on impellers with blades, the smooth discs transfer momentum through viscous drag, making the system suitable for handling liquids, gases, and even fluids containing suspended particles with reduced wear and maintenance requirements.
The simulation demonstrates the flow behavior inside the propulsion system. As the rotor spins, the fluid is continuously accelerated along the disc surfaces while maintaining streamlined motion. The gradual increase in velocity and smooth change in direction reduce shock losses and improve energy transfer efficiency. This operating principle enables the same machine to function either as a pump, when driven mechanically, or as a turbine, when pressurized fluid drives the rotor, making the design highly versatile for fluid power applications.
