Increase of Compressor Performance through the Use of Microstructures 2019-24-0239

This paper describes how turbomachines can be optimized by simulating the effect of micro- and nanostructures suitably created over the shapes of their constituting components in order to increase the efficiency of the whole mechanical system. These structures, called riblets, consist of tiny streamwise grooved surfaces which reduce the drag in the turbulent boundary layer. Theoretical, numerical and experimental experiences give a first estimation of the impact of riblets in industrial compressors. In this case, the riblet structures reduce the aerodynamic shear stress losses. The areas of higher interest are the diffusor and the volute. It is there where the higher losses happen. The optimal size, position and effect on performance is going to be analysed. The use of such an effective numerical means may give benefits in terms of efficiency increase as well as of CO2 and noise emission reduction and, for these reasons, it also has a positive economical and societal impact in relation to mobility. The presented activities were performed in the Framework of the ReSISTant project, which was co-financed by the European Commission under the Grant Agreement n. 760941.