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At least 127 records · Page 7

Analytical prediction of the performance and stability of a J85-13 compressor with distorted inlet flow

The parallel compressor concept was studied using a compressor model based on the overall clean-inlet performance map obtained from experimental tests in an altitude chamber using a General Electric J85-13 turbojet engine. The model, which includes a static-pressure balance calculation at compressor discharge, was exercised at conditions corresponding to 10 different screen-induced distortion patterns included in the experimental data base. The spoiled area of these patterns ranged from 30 deg to 180 deg, and the distortion screen density, or the area blocked by the screen wire per unit area of screen, varied from 26 to 69 percent. The study indicates that at the higher corrected speeds, the analytical surge lines obtained are good representations of the corresponding experimental surge lines and are independent of distortion angle or distortion angle or distortion level.

Milner, E. J.↗

A comparative study of turbulence models in predicting hypersonic inlet flows

A computational study has been conducted to evaluate the performance of various turbulence models. The NASA P8 inlet, which represents cruise condition of a typical hypersonic air-breathing vehicle, was selected as a test case for the study; the PARC2D code, which solves the full two dimensional Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes equations, was used. Results are presented for a total of six versions of zero- and two-equation turbulence models. Zero-equation models tested are the Baldwin-Lomax model, the Thomas model, and a combination of the two. Two-equation models tested are low-Reynolds number models (the Chien model and the Speziale model) and a high-Reynolds number model (the Launder and Spalding model).

Kapoor, Kamlesh↗

F/A-18A Inlet Flow Characteristics During Maneuvers with Rapidly Changing Angle of Attack

The performance and distortion levels of the right inlet of the F/A-18A High Alpha Research Vehicle were assessed during maneuvers with rapidly changing angle-of-attack at the NASA Dryden Flight Research Center, Edwards, California. The distortion levels were compared with those produced by current inlet-engine compatibility evaluation techniques. The objective of these analyses was to determine whether the results obtained for steady aerodynamic conditions were adequate to describe the inlet-generated distortion levels that occur during rapid aircraft maneuvers. The test data were obtained during 46 dynamic maneuvers at Mach numbers of 0.3 and 0.4. Levels of inlet recovery, peak dynamic circumferential distortion, and peak dynamic radial distortion of dynamic maneuvers for a General Electric F404-GE-400 turbofan engine were compared with estimations based on steady aerodynamic conditions. The comparisons were performed at equivalent angle-of-attack, angle-of-sideslip, and Mach number. Results showed no evidence of peak inlet distortion levels being elevated by dynamic maneuver conditions at high angle-of-attack compared with steady aerodynamic estimations. During sweeps into high angle-of-attack, the peak distortion levels of the dynamic maneuvers rarely rose to steady aerodynamic estimations. The dynamic maneuvers were shown to be effective at identifying conditions when discrete changes in inlet behavior occur.

Yuhas, Andrew J.↗

Inlet flow distortion in turbomachinery - Comparison of theory and experiment in a transonic fan stage

Consideration is given to both velocity and temperature circumferential inlet distortions at upstream infinity (Seidel et al., 1980). The blade rows here are modeled as semiactuator disks, and losses and quasi-steady deviation angle correlations are included in the analysis. The governing equations are linearized, and the perturbations in stagnation pressure and stagnation temperature at upstream infinity are represented as Fourier series. The flow in the rotor is modeled as inviscid, one-dimensional, unsteady, and compressible. the flow is steady elsewhere. The deviation angles for the rotor and stator are taken to be functions of the relative inlet angle and Mach number, and use is made of the correlations contained in Johnson and Bullock (1965). It is assumed that the losses in relative stagnation pressure in the rotor and stator occur across the trailing edge. Boundary conditions applied at the various stations furnish the equations that make it possible to solve for the several quantities introduced in the linearization of the governing equations.

Seidel, B. S.↗

Theoretical and experimental engine-inlet flow fields for fighter forebodies

The capability of two numerical methods, one for transonic and one for supersonic flows, to predict the flow fields about representative fighter aircraft forebodies in the vicinity of the engine inlets was examined. The Mach number range covered was 0.9 to 2.5 and the angle-of-attack range was 0 deg to 25 deg. The computer progams that implement each of the numerical methods are described as to their features and usage, and results are compared with comprehensive wind tunnel data. Although both prediction methods were inviscid, results show that the aerodynamic effects of the forebody, with and without a wing, can be simulated fairly well. Futher work is needed to include the effects of viscosity, including vortex shedding.

Yaros, S. F.↗

Analysis of the Scramjet inlet flow field using two-dimensional Navier-Stokes equations

A computer code was developed to solve the full two dimensional Navier-Stokes equations in a scramjet inlet. The analysis uses a numerical coordinate transformation which generates a set of boundary-fitted curvilinear coordinates. The explicit finite difference algorithm of MacCormack is used to solve the governing equations. A two-layer eddy viscosity model is used for the turbulent flow. The code can analyze both inviscid and viscous flows with multiple struts in the flow field. Detailed results are presented for two model problems and two scramjet inlets with one and two struts. The application of the two dimensional analysis in the preliminary design of the actual scramjet inlet is briefly discussed.

Kumar, A.↗

Numerical analysis of the scramjet inlet flow field using two-dimensional Navier-Stokes equations

A computer code has been developed to solve the full two-dimensional Navier-Stokes equations in a scramjet inlet. The analysis uses a numerical coordinate transformation which generates a set of boundary fitted curvilinear coordinates. The explicit finite-difference algorithm of MacCormack is used to solve the governing equations. A two-layer eddy viscosity model is used for the turbulent flow. The code can analyze both inviscid and viscous flows with multiple struts in the flow field. Detailed results are presented for two model problems and two scramjet inlets with one and two struts. The application of the two-dimensional analysis in the preliminary design of the actual scramjet inlet is briefly discussed.

Kumar, A.↗

Comparative study of turbulence models in predicting hypersonic inlet flows

A numerical study was conducted to analyze the performance of different turbulence models when applied to the hypersonic NASA P8 inlet. Computational results from the PARC2D code, which solves the full two-dimensional Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes equation, were compared with experimental data. The zero-equation models considered for the study were the Baldwin-Lomax model, the Thomas model, and a combination of the Baldwin-Lomax and Thomas models; the two-equation models considered were the Chien model, the Speziale model (both low Reynolds number), and the Launder and Spalding model (high Reynolds number). The Thomas model performed best among the zero-equation models, and predicted good pressure distributions. The Chien and Speziale models compared very well with the experimental data, and performed better than the Thomas model near the walls.

Kapoor, Kamlesh↗

Comparative study of turbulence models in predicting hypersonic inlet flows

A numerical study was conducted to analyze the performance of different turbulence models when applied to the hypersonic NASA P8 inlet. Computational results from the PARC2D code, which solves the full two-dimensional Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes equation, were compared with experimental data. The zero-equation models considered for the study were the Baldwin-Lomax model, the Thomas model, and a combination of the Baldwin-Lomax and Thomas models; the two-equation models considered were the Chien model, the Speziale model (both low Reynolds number), and the Launder and Spalding model (high Reynolds number). The Thomas model performed best among the zero-equation models, and predicted good pressure distributions. The Chien and Speziale models compared wery well with the experimental data, and performed better than the Thomas model near the walls.

Kapoor, Kamlesh↗

Analysis of inlet flow distortion and turbulence effects on compressor stability

The effect of steady state circumferential total pressure distortion on the loss in compressor stall pressure ratio has been established by analytical techniques. Full scale engine and compressor/fan component test data were used to provide direct evaluation of the analysis. Specifically, since a circumferential total pressure distortion in an inlet system will result in unsteady flow in the coordinate system of the rotor blades, analysis of this type distortion must be performed from an unsteady aerodynamic point of view. By application of the fundamental aerothermodynamic laws to the inlet/compressor system, parameters important in the design of such a system for compatible operation have been identified. A time constant, directly related to the compressor rotor chord, was found to be significant, indicating compressor sensitivity to circumferential distortion is directly dependent on the rotor chord.

Melick, H. C., Jr.↗

Numerical analysis of the scramjet-inlet flow field by using two-dimensional Navier-Stokes equations

A computer code was developed to solve the full two dimensional Navier-Stokes equations in a supersonic combustion ramjet (scramjet) inlet. In order to be able to consider a general inlet geometry with embedded bodies, a numerical coordinate transformation is used which generates a set of boundary-fitted curvilinear coordinates. The explicit finite difference algorithm of MacCormack is used to solve the governing equations. An algebraic, two-layer eddy-viscosity model is used for the turbulent flow. The code can analyze both inviscid and viscous flows with no strut, one strut, or multiple struts in the flow field. The application of the two dimensional analysis in the preliminary parametric design studies of a scramjet inlet is discussed. Detailed results are presented for one model problem and for several actual scramjet-inlet configurations.

Kumar, A.↗

Mach 10 experimental database of a three-dimensional scramjet inlet flow field

The present work documents the experimental database of a combined computational and experimental parametric study of the internal aerodynamics of a generic three-dimensional sidewall compression scramjet inlet configuration at Mach 10. A total of 356 channels of pressure data, including static pressure orifices, pitot pressures, and exit flow rakes, along with oil flow and infrared thermography, provided a detailed experimental description of the flow. Mach 10 tests were performed for three geometric contraction ratios (3, 5, and 9), three Reynolds numbers (0.55 x 10(exp 6) per foot, 1.14 x 10(exp 6) per foot, and 2.15 x 10(exp 6) per foot), and three cowl positions (at the throat and two forward positions). For the higher contraction ratios, a large forward separation of the inflow boundary layer was observed, making the high contraction ratio configurations unsuitable for flight operation. A decrease in the freestream unit Reynolds number (Re) of only a factor of 2 led to a similar upstream separation. Although the presence of such large-scale separations leads to the question of whether the inlet is started, the presence of internal oblique swept shock interactions on the sidewalls seems to indicate that at least in the classical sense, the inlet is not unstarted. The laminar inflow boundary layer therefore appears to be very sensitive to increases in contraction ratio (CR) or decreases in Reynolds number; only the CR = 3 configuration with 0.25, and 50 percent cowl at Re = 2.15 x 10(exp 6) per foot operated 'on design'.

Holland, Scott D.↗

Performance of a J85-13 compressor with clean and distorted inlet flow

The results presented are of a series of experimental tests in which a J85-13 turbojet engine was subjected to both distorted and undistorted inlet total pressure conditions. A distinctive feature of the data base obtained is that it includes compressor interstage information not previously recorded for a J85-13 engine. Each of the eight compressor stages was instrumented to obtain the characteristics of the individual stages for undistorted inlet conditions, and these data are documented in the report along with the undistorted compressor overall performance. Also included in the report is the overall performance of the compressor exposed to 14 different distorted-inlet conditions - 10 circumferential patterns and 4 radial patterns. The distortion patterns were introduced using screens that spoiled from 8 to 50 percent of the compressor face area; the distortion screen density, or the area blocked by the screen wire per unit area of screen, varied from 26 to 69 percent.

Milner, E. J.↗

Installed F/A-18 inlet flow calculations at 30 degrees angle-of-attack: A comparative study

NASA Lewis is currently engaged in a research effort as a team member of the High Alpha Technology Program (HATP) within NASA. This program utilizes a specially equipped F/A-18, the High Alpha Research Vehicle (HARV), in an ambitious effort to improve the maneuverability of high-performance military aircraft at low subsonic speed, high angle of attack conditions. The overall objective of the Lewis effort is to develop inlet technology that will ensure efficient airflow delivery to the engine during these maneuvers. One part of the Lewis approach utilizes computational fluid dynamics codes to predict the installed performance of inlets for these highly maneuverable aircraft. Full Navier-Stokes (FNS) calculations on the installed F/A-18 inlet at 30 degrees angle of attack, 0 degrees yaw, and a freestream Mach number of 0.2 have been obtained in this study using an algebraic turbulence model with two grids (original and revised). Results obtained with the original grid were used to determine where further grid refinements and additional geometry were needed. In order to account properly for the external effects, the forebody, leading edge extension (LEX), ramp, and wing were included with inlet geometry. In the original grid, the diverter, LEX slot, and leading edge flap were not included due to insufficient geometry definition, but were included in a revised grid. In addition, a thin-layer Navier-Stokes (TLNS) code is used with the revised grid and the numerical results are compared to those obtained with the FNS code. The TLNS code was used to evaluate the effects on the solution using a code with more recent CFD developments such as upwinding with TVD schemes versus central differencing with artificial dissipation. The calculations are compared to a limited amount of available experimental data. The predicted forebody/fuselage surface static pressures compared well with data of all solutions. The predicted trajectory of the vortex generated under the LEX was different for each solution. These discrepancies are attributed to differences in the grid resolution and turbulence modeling. All solutions predict that this vortex is ingested by the inlet. The predicted inlet total pressure recoveries are lower than data and the distortions are higher than data. The results obtained with the revised grid were significantly improved from the original grid results. The original grid results indicated the ingested vortex migrated to the engine face and caused additional distortions to those already present due to secondary flow development. The revised grid results indicate that the ingested vortex is dissipated along the inlet duct inboard wall. The TLNS results indicate the flow at the engine face was much more distorted than the FNS results and is attributed to the pole boundary condition introducing numerical distortions into the flow field.

Smith, C. Frederic↗

Mach 10 computational study of a three-dimensional scramjet inlet flow field

The present work documents the computational results for a combined computational and experimental parametric study of the internal aerodynamics of a generic three-dimensional sidewall-compression scramjet inlet configuration at Mach 10. The three-dimensional Navier-Stokes code SCRAMIN was chosen for the computational portion of the study because it uses a well-known and well-proven numerical scheme and has shown favorable comparison with experiment at Mach numbers between 2 and 6. One advantage of CFD was that it provided flow field data for a detailed examination of the internal flow characteristics in addition to the surface properties. The experimental test matrix at mach 10 included three geometric contraction ratios (3, 5, and 9), three Reynolds numbers (0.55 x 10(exp 6) per foot, 1.14 x 10(exp 6) per foot, and 2.15 x 10(exp 6) per foot), and three cowl positions (at the throat and two forward positions). Computational data for two of these configurations (the contraction ratio of 3, Re = 2.15 x 10 (exp 6) per foot, at two cowl positions) are presented along with a detailed analysis of the flow interactions in successive computational planes.

Holland, Scott D.↗

Mach 10 computational study of a three-dimensional scramjet inlet flow field

The present work documents the computational results for a combined computational and experimental parametric study of the internal aerodynamics of a generic three-dimensional sidewall-compression scramjet inlet configuration at Mach 10. The three-dimensional Navier-Stokes code SCRAMIN was chosen for the computational portion of the study because it uses a well-known and well-proven numerical scheme and has shown favorable comparison with experiment at Mach numbers between 2 and 6. One advantage of CFD was that it provided flow field data for a detailed examination of the internal flow characteristics in addition to the surface properties. The experimental test matrix at Mach 10 included three geometric contraction ratios (3, 5, and 9), three Reynolds numbers (0.55 x 10(exp 6) per foot, 1.14 x 10(exp 6) per foot, and 2.15 x 10(exp 6) per foot), and three cowl positions (at the throat and two forward positions). Computational data for two of these configurations (the contraction ratio of 3, Re = 2.15 x 10(exp 6) per foot, at two cowl positions) are presented along with a detailed analysis of the flow interactions in successive computational planes.

Holland, Scott D.↗

Inlet Flow Characteristics During Rapid Maneuvers for an F/A-18A Airplane

The F404-GE-400 engine powered F/A-18A High Alpha Research Vehicle (HARV) was used to examine the characteristics of inlet airflow during rapid aircraft maneuvers. A study of the degree of similarity between inlet data obtained during rapid aircraft maneuvers and inlet data obtained at steady aerodynamic attitudes was conducted at the maximum engine airflow of approximately 145 Ibm/sec using a computer model that was generated from inlet data obtained during steady aerodynamic maneuvers. Results show that rapid-maneuver inlet recoveries agreed very well with the recoveries obtained at equivalent stabilized angle-of-attack conditions. The peak dynamic circumferential distortion values obtained during rapid maneuvers agreed within 0.01 units of distortion over the 10 - 38 degree angle of attack range with the values obtained during steady aerodynamic maneuvers while similar agreement was found for the peak dynamic radial distortion values up to 29 degrees angle-of-attack. Exceedences of the rapid-maneuver peak dynamic circumferential distortion values relative to the peak distortion model values at steady attitudes occurred only at low or negative angles of attack and were inconsequential from an engine-stability assessment point of view. The results of this study validate the current industry practice of testing at steady aerodynamic conditions to characterize inlet recovery and peak dynamic distortion levels.

Steenken, William G.↗