Variable-Pitch Vortex Generators for Compressor Corner Vortices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing turbomachines, particularly high-pressure axial compressors, suffer from aerodynamic blockage due to corner vortices, which impair efficiency and stability, and existing vortex generators are optimized for only one operating point, making them ineffective across the engine's entire operating range.
Innovation Solution
Variable-pitch vortex generators positioned upstream of the bladed disk, capable of rotating to adjust their pitch with the turbomachine's speed, ensuring optimal operation across all speeds by maintaining a constant angle of incidence for the air stream.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed-pitch vortex generators are used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the effectiveness is limited to one operating point and deteriorates across the entire operating range
Solution Approach 1:
The vortex generators are equipped with variable pitch mechanisms that allow dynamic adjustment of their angle of attack according to operating conditions. This enables the system to adapt to different operating points while maintaining effectiveness, resolving the contradiction between fixed structure simplicity and operational versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The pitch angle of the vortex generators is made variable rather than fixed. By changing the pitch parameter according to operating speed and flow conditions, the system maintains optimal performance across the entire operating range, transforming a single-point optimization into a multi-point solution.
2Reliability
If vortex generators are positioned upstream of the bladed disk, then corner vortices are reduced and aerodynamic efficiency improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The upstream region is segmented into multiple zones with vortex generators positioned at specific locations. This segmentation allows targeted intervention in the flow paths that generate corner vortices, improving aerodynamic efficiency while keeping the overall structure manageable through modular placement.
Solution Approach 2:
Vortex generators act as intermediary elements positioned between the incoming flow and the bladed disk. These intermediaries modify the flow characteristics before they interact with the main blading, reducing corner vortex formation and improving overall aerodynamic efficiency without requiring fundamental changes to the main compressor structure.
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 solution effectively reduces corner vortices by transferring energy from the main flow to boundary layers, improving aerodynamic efficiency and stability across the compressor's operating range.
Implementation Method 1
the vortex generators are created in the form, for example, of small fins which have the function of creating vortices in the flow path. These vortices allow energy to be transferred from the main flow to the boundary layers, the velocities of which are thereby accelerated.
Implementation Method 2
These vortices allow energy to be transferred from the main flow to the boundary layers, the velocities of which are thereby accelerated. Because it is the low velocities that are responsible for the corner vortex, this vortex effect is reduced.
Data Source
AI summary
A turbomachine including at least one bladed disk and vortex generators positioned upstream of the blading of the disk is provided. The vortex generators are of variable pitch.