Methodology for assessing the aerodynamic imbalance of GTE impellers

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Increased vibration during testing and operation of gas turbine engines may be caused by aerodynamic imbalance. As usual, aerodynamic imbalance is eliminated on stands simulating the operating conditions of the impellers. Existing stands have a high cost of testing or do not allow to make allowances for all the factors during the operation of the impellers. A review of models and techniques has shown the importance of considering operating parameters when calculating aerodynamic imbalance. The paper provides a methodology for calculating the aerodynamic imbalance of the impeller. The methodology is based on the use of finite element modeling (FEM). The proposed method for assessing the aerodynamic imbalance of the impellers makes it possible to take into account the rotational speed, the actual geometry of the blades based on the measurement results, as well as the assembly conditions and the operating conditions of the impeller. The technique was used through the example of a specially designed and manufactured impeller with geometric deflections. Theoretical and experimental studies have been carried out. The discrepancy between theoretical and experimental data did not exceed 15.5%. The developed model can be used at enterprises that manufacture gas turbine engines, gas compressor units, steam turbine plants and wind power plants.