Advanced Transonic Fan Design Procedure Based on a Navier–Stokes Method

Abstract

A fan performance analysis method based upon three-dimensional steady Navier–Stokes equations is presented in this paper. Its accuracy is established through extensive code validation effort. Validation data comparisons ranging from a two-dimensional compressor cascade to three-dimensional fans are shown in this paper to highlight the accuracy and reliability of the code. The overall fan design procedure using this code is then presented. Typical results of this design process are shown for a current engine fan design. This new design method introduces a major improvement over the conventional design methods based on inviscid flow and boundary layer concepts. Using the Navier–Stokes design method, fan designers can confidently refine their designs prior to rig testing. This results in reduced rig testing and cost savings as the bulk of the iteration between design and experimental verification is transferred to an iteration between design and computational verification.