Vortex Lattice Method for the Calculation of the Tip Leakage Flow: Evaluation on a Single Blade

Abstract

This paper investigates the use of a Vortex Lattice Method to simulate tip-leakage flow with small computational effort. The module PyLiSuite presented in the present paper has been completely developed from scratch and is validated on two-dimensional and three-dimensional basic cases. The validation lies on the estimate of the lift coefficient computed from the circulation given by the module. The capabilities of PyLiSuite regarding tip-leakage flow are gauged in comparison with novel experimental measurements on a single blade with an adjustable gap. The results show a good prediction of the shape and size of the tip-leakage vortex for large tip gaps. Differences in the position and the deficit of static pressure in the core of the vortex are noted. The future improvements on the module concern the influence of viscosity to be accounted for and the computation time which could be shortened.