Enhancement of aerodynamic performance of axial compressors utilizing natural aspiration through optimized casing circumferential slot

Abstract

Abstract This paper presents results of aerodynamic enhancement of axial compressors utilizing optimum natural aspiration through a circumferential slot made within the casing wall upstream the rotor blades row. The method of investigation is based on numerical simulation of flow field. Geometries of the slot walls were optimized to find the maximum stall margin and pressure ratio of the compressor. The optimum case is accompanied by boosting more momentum within the blades tip region through the slot. Consequently, tip leakage vortex flow weakens and compressor stability margin increases. Final results showed that in comparison to the untreated casing, the optimum geometry of the slot causes the total pressure ratio and stall margin to increase by 4.2% and 3%, respectively. This state-of-the-art technique is simple and economic which can be easily implemented in practical cases while the compressor is exposed to commencement of flow instabilities in the forms of the rotating stall or surge phenomena.

Keywords

• Axial compressor
• Stall margin
• Natural aspiration
• Tip leakage flow