Accurate Method to Reproduce Throughflow Results With a Meanline Solver

Abstract

A novel method to generate meanline models from through-flow results of low pressure turbines (LPT) is presented. Using a fast optimization approach, it is shown that it is possible to reproduce with the reduced fidelity model the main performance variables of the throughflow case, such as stage powers, pressure ratios, Mach numbers or Smith charts, with negligible errors in practical terms. Providing two throughflow models (a three-stage LPT rig and a six-stage plus an outlet guide vane LPT), it is discussed which variables should be matched in order to obtain a representative meanline model. It is studied as well the radial angle influence on the matching process. Using meanline models could have some benefits in the fast assessment of geometry and operation conditions changes due to their flexibility, robustness and easy setup compared with a throughflow simulation.