Characterization of Tandem Airfoil Configurations of Axial Compressors

Abstract

Abstract The objective of the current study is to investigate the effects of geometric parameters on the fluid flow patterns, diffusion factor, load-split, and off-design performance of the tandem configuration under subsonic, rectilinear, cascade flow. A 2-D computational model using finite volume formulation has been developed and validated against available experimental data. The obtained data is presented in a format involving loss parameter and loading and will help the designer to have sufficient number of combinations within the useful range of application. It is observed that general performance behavior of tandem cascade is similar to a single airfoil data. Load shifting from the front airfoil to the rear airfoil is noted at positive axial overlaps and higher camber ratios. An optimum gap ratio of around 2 is observed for the range of configurations investigated. Contrary to the previous literature, the present study indicates higher loading of the front airfoil for the best overall loading-to-loss ratio of the tandem configuration.