Turbine Broadband Noise Predictions Using Linearised Frequency Domain Navier-Stokes Solvers

Abstract

A linear frequency domain Navier-Stokes solver is used to retain the influence of turning, thickness, and main geometric parameters on turbine broadband noise. The methodology has been applied to predict the broadband interaction noise produced by a representative low-speed low-pressure turbine section. The differences in the spectra with respect to those yielded by state-of-the-art flat plate based methodologies are up to 6 dB. The differences are caused by multiple effects that semi-analytical methodologies do not account for. The most important are blade thickness and turning, which have been studied separately to quantify their impact on the broadband noise footprint. The influence of changing the turbine operating conditions has been discussed as well. The outlet sound pressure level scales with the third and second power of the inlet and outlet Mach number, respectively, for constant turbulence intensity, within most of the frequency range considered.