Multistage axial compressor flow field predictions using cfd and through-flow calculations

Abstract

A comparison between two different methods for aerodynamic calculation of multistage axial compressors is presented. Results obtained using classical 2D through-flow calculations were compared with CFD results for several test cases, including various subsonic and supersonic multistage axial compressors with different geometric configurations and stage operating parameters. Calculated flow fields were compared in terms of overall compressor performances, individual blade row operation parameters and spanwise distributions of different flow variables. Nominal and off-design compressor operating conditions were analyzed and all the results were compared with experimental data. Accuracy, advantages and differences between individual methods are discussed.