Compressor Module Strut Flap Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
A significant pressure drop occurs between the structural struts and the row of stator vanes directly downstream of the struts in axial turbomachines, leading to inefficiencies in compressor performance due to uncontrolled flow in the wake of the struts.
Innovation Solution
The integration of pivotable downstream flaps on the struts and variably oriented stator vanes, which are positioned partially within the inter-strut spaces, allows for improved flow continuity and reduced pressure losses, making the turbomachine more compact and lighter.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If a large gap is maintained between the struts and the row of stator vanes downstream, then the structural integrity and simplicity of the compressor casing is preserved, but pressure drop increases due to uncontrolled flow in the wake of the struts
Solution Approach 1:
The strut is divided into two functional parts: a fixed upstream portion and a pivotable downstream flap. This segmentation allows the upstream portion to maintain structural integrity while the downstream flap independently controls flow, reducing pressure drop without compromising overall strut strength
Solution Approach 2:
The downstream portion of the strut is made dynamic through the pivotable flap mechanism. The flap can rotate about a radial axis to adjust its orientation, enabling active control of the flow wake and reduction of pressure losses, transforming a static structural element into an adaptive flow control device
2Length of moving object
If stator vanes are positioned within the inter-strut spaces, then the overall length and weight of the turbomachine are reduced, but the flow control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The stator vanes are positioned in the inter-strut spaces, utilizing the radial-dimension space between struts rather than extending the axial length. This spatial reorganization allows the vanes to be accommodated within the existing structural footprint, reducing overall turbomachine length while maintaining flow control functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The stator vane row is merged with the strut structure by positioning the vanes within the inter-strut spaces. This integration combines the flow control function of the vanes with the structural framework of the struts, eliminating the need for separate axial space and reducing overall machine length
3Loss of energy
If the downstream flap is made pivotable to control flow, then pressure losses are reduced, but the mechanical complexity and potential reliability issues increase
Solution Approach 1:
The flap mechanism is designed to be actuated by the flow field itself rather than requiring external actuators. The pressure distribution in the wake naturally drives the flap rotation, allowing the system to self-regulate flow control without complex mechanical actuation systems, thereby improving reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The flap acts as an intermediary element between the upstream fixed portion and the downstream flow field. It mediates the interaction by passively responding to flow conditions and adjusting the wake structure, simplifying the overall control mechanism while achieving effective pressure loss reduction
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration eliminates pressure drops between the struts and stator vanes, enhancing compressor performance by ensuring a homogeneous flow and reducing the overall length and weight of the turbomachine.
Implementation Method 1
each strut has a fixed upstream portion and a pivotable downstream flap
Implementation Method 2
an annular row of variably oriented stator vanes extending from the central hub to the outer ring
Data Source
AI summary
A turbomachine compressor module comprising an annular array of struts provided with pivotable flaps. The struts can define inter-strut spaces between two circumferentially adjacent struts, and variably oriented stator vanes are disposed at least partially in the inter-strut spaces. Also, a turbomachine having such a module and a row of rotor blades directly downstream of the module.