Vortex Generators in Compressor Rectifier Interblade Channels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Highly loaded compressors in turbine engines suffer from aerodynamic blockage due to corner vortices, which degrade efficiency and stability, with existing vortex generators and airflow deflecting solutions not being entirely effective.
Innovation Solution
A device with vortex generators positioned axially between the leading and trailing edges of compressor vanes, specifically at two-thirds of the vane span towards the downstream side, featuring a triangular shape extending along the inner collar and oriented at an angle to interact with the shedding region, reducing corner vortices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If vortex generators are installed on the inner collar upstream of the vanes, then corner vortices are reduced, but the efficacy is not optimum and compressor efficiency is not maximized
Solution Approach 1:
The vortex generators are positioned at a specific location (two-thirds of the axial span towards the downstream side) rather than uniformly distributed, creating localized flow control where it is most needed to address the corner vortex phenomenon while optimizing efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The vortex generators are placed upstream of the shedding region to preemptively control the flow before the corner vortex fully develops, allowing for better flow management and reduced losses downstream
2Ease of operation
If vortex generators are installed in the upstream half of the inter-vane channel, then airflow is deflected, but this solution is not optimum for guide vanes where shedding occurs on the rear part of the suction face
Solution Approach 1:
The vortex generators are positioned at two-thirds of the axial span towards the downstream side, targeting the specific region where shedding occurs on the rear part of the suction face, rather than using a uniform upstream distribution
Solution Approach 2:
The solution moves from considering only the upstream position to incorporating the downstream position at two-thirds of the axial span, adding a new spatial dimension to the vortex generator placement strategy
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
The precise positioning and shape of the vortex generators effectively reduce corner vortices, enhancing compressor efficiency and stability by minimizing losses and increasing gains, resulting in a positive total pressure drop across the duct.
Implementation Method 1
Vortex generators are small fins that are fixed to the inner collar and have the function of creating vortices in the duct. These vortices transfer energy from the main flow to the limit layers, which are thereby accelerated.
Data Source
AI summary
A compressor rectifier of a turbomachine including a plurality of stationary blades extending in a circular fashion between an inner shroud and an outer shroud that are concentric and define interblade channels forming an air duct in which air to be compressed flows, the inner shroud including at least one vortex generator extending into the air duct to reduce corner vortices. The vortex generator is positioned axially in the interblade channel, between the axial position of a leading edge of the blades and those of a trailing edge thereof.