A Wide-Range Axial-Flow Compressor Stage Performance Model

Abstract

Dynamic compression system response is a major concern in the operability of aircraft gas turbine engines. Multi-stage compression system computer models have been developed to predict compressor response to changing operating conditions. These models require a knowledge of the wide-range, steady-state operating characteristics as inputs, which has limited their use as predicting tools. The full range of dynamic axial-flow compressor operation spans forward and reversed flow conditions. A model for predicting the wide flow range characteristics of axial-flow compressor stages was developed and applied to a 3-stage, low-speed compressor with very favorable results and to a 10-stage, high-speed compressor with mixed results. Conclusions were made regarding the inception of stall and the effects associated with operating a stage in a multistage environment. It was also concluded that there are operating points of an isolated compressor stage that are not attainable when that stage is operated in a multi-stage environment.