Numerical simulations of unsteady effects in supersonic turbine configurations

• Grant number: 24/20304-9
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master
• Start date: March 01, 2025
• End date: February 28, 2027
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Aerospace Engineering - Aerodynamics
• Principal Investigator: William Roberto Wolf
• Grantee: Leonardo Campos Zoca
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Engenharia Mecânica (FEM). Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP). Campinas , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 21/06448-0 - High-fidelity numerical simulations applied in unsteady aerodynamics, turbulence and aeroacoustics, AP.JP2

Abstract

In this work, direct numerical simulations (DNS) and wall-resolved large eddy simulations (LES) will be employed to compute unsteady flows in supersonic turbine cascades. Supersonic turbines have been attracting the interest of engineers and scientists particularly because of their high specific power, which may allow a potential size and weight reduction in gas turbine engines. These compact fluid machineries find application in propulsion and power generation systems. However, their efficient operation is a challenge due to the complex unsteady flow mechanisms involved such as shock wave reflections, shock-boundary layer interactions, and the starting issues typical of internal supersonic passages. In this work, different inlet flow conditions and passage configurations will be investigated using DNS and LES to understand the unsteady mechanisms taking place in supersonic turbine cascades. A study of starting will be conducted followed by an analysis of the subsequent unsteady effects related to shock-boundary layer interactions and possible separations.