Development and validation of a new universal through flow method for axial compressors

Abstract

This article describes the development of a new through flow method for the analysis of axial multi-stage compressors. The method is based on a stream function approach and a finite-element solution procedure. It includes a high-fidelity loss and deviation model with improved correlations and end-wall boundary layer calculation. A radial distribution model of losses and a new spanwise mixing model are applied to simulate three-dimensional flow effects. The calibration of the models is made by calculating a number of test cases with different configurations with the aim of achieving high accuracy and optimum robustness for each of the test cases considered. The code was applied to flow analysis and performance prediction of a newly developed gas turbine compressor. Comparison of the predicted results and measured test data for the overall compressor performance and a number of parameters under different operating conditions showed good agreement. The results of the validation confirm that this method based on calibrated correlations can be applied as a reliable tool for flow analysis and parameter variation during the design phase for a wide range of compressor configurations.