Nonlinear actuator disk theory.

Abstract

Results obtained from a recent investigation of the flowfield induced by a heavily loaded actuator disk. First, the governing nonlinear integral equations are formulated from two different points of view, and the iterative solution is briefly outlined. Calculated flow patterns are presented for representative advance ratios and blade circulation distributions. For the static condition, the experimentally observed lingering of the tip vortices in the propeller plane, and the insensitivity of the streamline pattern to thrust coefficient are both accounted for, and a 'dividing streamline' - apparently not previously discussed in the literature, is predicted for the nonstatic case. Finally, the relationship between the actuator disk flow and the zero harmonic of the flowfield induced by a finite-bladed propeller is considered.