Influence of a Novel Three-Dimensional Leading Edge Geometry on the Aerodynamic Performance of Transonic Cascade Vanes

This paper addresses the issue of aerodynamic performance of a novel 3D leading edge modification to a reference vane. An analysis of tubercles found in nature and some engineering applications was used to synthesize new leading edge geometry. Three variations of the reference low pressure turbine vane were obtained by changing the characteristic parameters of the tubercles. Shock structure, surface flow visualization and total pressure measurements were made through experiments in a cascade rig, as well as through computational fluid dynamics. The tests were carried out at design zero incidence and off-design ±10-deg and ±5-deg incidences. The performance of the new 3D leading edge geometries was compared against the reference vane. Some leading edge tubercle configurations were effective at decreasing total pressure losses at positive inlet incidence angles. Numerical results supplemented experimental results.Copyright © 2012 by ASME