Endwall Blockage in Axial Compressors

Abstract

This paper presents a new methodology for quantifying compressor endwall blockage and an approach, using this quantification, for defining the links between design parameters, flow conditions, and the growth of blockage due to tip clearance flow. Numerical simulations, measurements in a low speed compressor, and measurements in a wind tunnel designed to simulate a compressor clearance flow are used to assess the approach. The analysis thus developed allows predictions of endwall blockage associated with variations in tip clearance, blade stagger angle, inlet boundary layer thickness, loading level, loading profile, solidity and clearance jet total pressure. The estimates provided by this simplified method capture the trends in blockage with changes in design parameters to within 10%. More importantly, however, the method provides physical insight into, and thus guidance for control of, the flow features and phenomena responsible for compressor endwall blockage generation.

Degradation of gas turbine performance in natural gas service

“…Spakovszky et al (1999) as well as Khalid et al (1998) relate increased rotor clearances to an increase in flow blockage, thus reduced compressor flow capacity. We find that the same level of compressor flow blockage leads to more power degradation in a two shaft engine than in a single shaft engine.…”

Gas Turbine Performance Optimization Using Compressor Online Water Washing Technique

“…Gas Turbines (GTs) have wide range of industrial applications. Proper maintenance and operating practices can significantly affect the level of performance degradation and thus time between repairs or overhauls of a GT [1][2][3][4][5]. The correct construction and operation of the components of GT plants are also necessary for proper understanding and monitoring.…”