Test and numerical analysis of flow distribution for indoor aero-engine test bed

Abstract

Good flow field characteristic is the basis of the test bed function in the engineering design of indoor aviation engine test bed. In this study, the flow field of the test room is analyzed by 3D computational fluid dynamic (CFD) method compared with the test results to improve the layout of the test bed. The study found that the numerical simulation can directly reflect the test condition and the distribution law of the parameters. The velocity of the measurement section is reasonable and credible which can be a guide to the experiment operation. Experimental results indicate that the aerodynamic performance of inlet section is poor. The original test structure maked the air flow a big disordered degree. Flow would separate after turning in the upstream and appear in an oblique state near the engine inlet, which are validated by the CFD simulation results. After the installation of guide plates with an angle of 90 degrees, the intake airflow was improved significantly — the air flow uniformity is greatly increased, making a rule of pre intake airflow area in front of the engine inlet and the test condition is guaranteed.