Evolution From Two-Dimensional to Three-Dimensional Computational Fluid Dynamics in Compressor Design

Document Number: 951413

Date Published: May 1995

Author(s):
N. J. Plehn - Williams International
D. S. Musgrave - Williams International

Abstract:
As three-dimensional computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis rapidly matures, the question as to whether it can replace 2D and quasi-3D methods in the aerodynamic design of turbomachinery naturally arises, since secondary flows, tip clearance flow, and corner vortices are more directly addressable through fully 3D modeling.

In this paper we compare a fully 3D viscous solution method with several quasi-3D techniques (including traditional streamline curvature) as compressor design tools. State-of-the- art solvers that apply these approaches to the problem of airfoil cascade design are evaluated. Their relative strengths are revealed in their application to the design of a mixed-flow compressor impeller and in the comparison of computational results with test data.

While the majority of turbomachinery design systems are still quasi-3D in their fundamental approach for some very good reasons, new design strategies that are more three-dimensional in architecture are being developed to capitalize on the strengths of fully 3D CFD. With this may come the need for a rather dramatic shift in our thinking toward the way we design compressible flow machinery. We offer our thoughts regarding the possible questions and problems, and conclude that a design system centered on fully 3D CFD offers substantial advantages for most compressor types.

File Size: 1406K
Product Status: In Stock

See other papers presented at Aerospace Atlantic Conference & Exposition, May 1995, Dayton, OH, USA, Session: Aerospace Atlantic Conference & Exposition

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