The measurement of boundary layers on a compressor blade in cascade. I - A unique experimental facility
A unique cascade facility is described which makes it possible to use LDV for measuring blade boundary layer profiles. Because of the need for a laser access window, the facility cannot rely on continuous blade pack suction to achieve stable flow. Instead, a combination of tailboards and strong suction upstream of the blade pack is used to create a two-dimensional periodic flow field at a chord Reynolds number of 500,000. The distribution of the upstream suction is controlled through a complex baffling system. Details of the inlet and outlet flow are documented using five-hole pressure probes, blade static-pressure measurements, and sublimation flow visualization. Experimental data are presented on the flow field on the suction surface of the blade, the pressure surface, and near-wake flow fields.