Large Eddy Simulation of a Transonic Axial Compressor Operating Near Stall

A comprehensive multiple passage, one-quarter compressor model was developed to conduct a Large Eddy Simulation (LES) of the Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) Transonic Axial Compressor Rig (TCR) operating close to stall in its highest test speed configuration. This computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model was created using a blade number scaling technique, ensuring equal interface areas between blade rows, and was validated utilizing experimental data acquired from the TCR at the same speed configuration. An extensive analysis of the CFD model operating near stall was performed to investigate the mechanisms responsible for stall in this compressor and to aid in decision-making concerning future flow control designs aimed at enhancing stall margin.