Power-loss methodology for a compressor cascade at various Reynolds numbers and its validation

Abstract

Finding ways to identify and quantify the losses from various sources in turbomachinery is significant for understanding the physical loss mechanisms and improving aerodynamic performance. However, traditional loss-assessment methods fail to reveal the local losses and decouple the flow field. In this paper, a new power-loss methodology is proposed. This methodology defines local and accumulated power losses, and a new method of averaging the total outlet pressure is presented. This establishes a direct relationship between the well-known total pressure loss and the accumulated power loss. The method was verified based on experimental results, the Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes equations, and large-eddy simulations of a compressor cascade at various Reynolds numbers. By applying this method, the boundary-layer loss, separation loss, and trailing-edge mixing loss of the compressor cascade were successfully distinguished and quantitatively accounted for. The method has been shown to be a valuable tool for understanding and quantifying the losses experienced in different flow regimes. In conclusion, the power-loss methodology demonstrates the potential for accurate quantitative analysis of local and global loss generation, the investigation of physical mechanisms, and the development of physical models for diverse complex flows beyond just the compressor cascade flow.