Three-dimensional Flow and Aerodynamic Loss Downstream of First-Stage Turbine Vane Cascade

Abstract

Three-dimensional flow characteristics within a high-acceleration first-stage turbine vane passage has been investigated in a newly-built vane cascade for propulsion. The result shows that there is a strong favorable pressure gradient on the vane pressure surface. On its suction surface, however, there exists not only a much stronger favorable pressure gradient than that on the pressure surface upstream of the mid-chord but also a subsequent adverse pressure gradient downstream of it. By employing two different oil-film methods with upstream coating and full-coverage coating, a four-vortex model horseshoe vortex system can be identified ahead of each leading edge in the cascade, and the separation line of inlet boundary layer flow as well as the separation line of re-attached flow is provided as well. In addition, basic flow data such as secondary flow, aerodynamic loss, and flow turning angle downstream of the cascade are obtained.