Development of Automated Processes for Three-Dimensional Numerical Simulation of Compressor Performance Characteristics

Abstract

Compressor characteristic evaluation is a critical step in design and optimization. Corrected characteristic curves are typically derived via experimental testing or CFD computation which is typically executed through manual manipulation. For compressors necessitating extensive characteristic computation across multiple speeds and operational conditions, the involved process is inherently complex. This paper introduces an automation approach, employing dichotomy and optimization algorithms aligned with a 3D numerical solver, to streamline the derivation of compressor characteristic curves. Initially, the paper delineated the procedural frameworks for two methodologies and validated them using a single-stage transonic compressor. Both methods achieved the automated resolution of the characteristic lines. The result indicates that the volume of the iterative computations hinges on the granularity of the space searching step and the precision in identifying the stall boundary point. Pertaining to the subject investigated herein, the dichotomy method entailed fewer iterations relative to the optimization algorithm. Subsequent adjustments to the optimization algorithmic process revealed that direct optimization mitigated computational demands substantially by reducing a cycle, thereby attesting to its superior efficacy. In summary, when simulating compressor characteristic curves, the dichotomy method proves more efficient when the interval value of the stall boundary range can be approximated. Conversely, direct optimization is preferable when the estimation of the compressor’s stall boundary is imprecise. The proposed methodologies contribute to compressor research and expedite the progression of compressor development and performance advancement.

Keywords

• compressor performance characteristics
• automated process
• numerical simulation
• dichotomy method
• optimization algorithm