CFD-based blade shape optimization of MGT-70(3)axial flow compressor

Abstract

Purpose This study aims at enhancing the performance of a 16-stage axial compressor and improving the operating stability. The adopted approaches for upgrading the compressor are artificial neural network, optimization algorithms and computational fluid dynamics. Design/methodology/approach The process starts with developing several data sets for certain 2D sections by means of training several artificial neural networks (ANNs) as surrogate models. Afterward, the trained ANNs are applied to the 3D shape optimization along with parametrization of the blade stacking line. Specifying the significant design parameters, a wide range of geometrical variations are considered by implementation of appropriate number of design variables. The optimized shapes are analyzed by applying computational fluid dynamic to obtain the best geometry. Findings 3D optimal results show improvements, especially in the case of decreasing or elimination of near walls corner separations. In addition, in comparison with the base geometry, numerical optimization shows an increase of 1.15 per cent in total isentropic efficiency in the first four stages, which results in 0.6 per cent improvement for the whole compressor, even while keeping the rest of the stages unchanged. To evaluate the numerical results, experimental data are compared with obtained data from simulation. Based on the results, the highest absolute relative deviation between experimental and numerical static pressure is approximately 7.5 per cent. Originality/value The blades geometry of an axial compressor used in a heavy-duty gas turbine is optimized by applying artificial neural network, and the results are compared with the base geometry numerically and experimentally.