Computational fluid dynamics for turbomachinery technologies with a focus on high-speed rotor blades

Abstract

NASA's SR3 8-bladed rotor with a rotational speed of 6350 rpm, an advance ratio of 3.6, and a transonic Mach Number of 0.8 is utilized to evaluate the aerodynamic and rotor effectiveness predictive ability of a CFD simulation using the Ansys commercial software. The experimentally tested model [1] included eight 45° swept blades that were tested at a design operating altitude of 10.68 km (35,000 ft.) and it is the one with the most data in the public domain. In the model, blade sweep and the distinct contour of the spinner and nacelle design were implemented to reduce compressibility losses. The primary goal of this research is to compare performance predictions with the experimental results for power coefficient and efficiency evaluation. Analyses are carried out on a single rotating zone separated by a sliding mesh boundary. We also look at the accuracy of recording downward velocities and swirling angles in the propeller's wake, with the goal to use the RANS technique to investigate how these wake parameters react with aerodynamic surface and the results are compared with the experimental results. Initial computational findings demonstrate increased correlation with wind tunnel measurements at 63.3° degrees pitch.