Abstract

The correct computation of flows over rough surfaces in technical systems, such as in turbomachines, is a significant issue for proper simulations of their performance data. Once the flow over rough surfaces is adequately computed in these machines, simulations become more trustworthy and can replace experimental prototyping. Roughness modelling approaches are often implemented in a solver to account for roughness effects in flow simulations. In these approaches, the equivalent sand roughness ks must be defined as a characteristic parameter of the rough surface. However, it is difficult to determine the corresponding ks-value for a surface roughness. In this context, this paper shows a novel and time-efficient numerical method, the discrete porosity method (DPM), which can be used to determine the ks-value of a rough surface. Applying this method, channel flow simulations were performed with an irregularly distributed cast iron surface from a turbopumps volute. After identifying the fully rough regime, the equivalent sand roughness was determined and a match with ks-values from literature data was found. Subsequently, the established ks-value for cast iron was used in a turbopump simulation with rough walls. The performance data of the pump were validated by experiments and a good agreement between the experimental and simulated performance data was found.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.