Effects of Reynolds Number on Performance and Stability of Axial Fans/Compressors

A method to predict the effects of Reynolds numbers on the performance and stability of axial fans/compressors is introduced. The calculation of the performance is implemented by stacking the performances of cascades, and the estimation of the stability is done by estimating the maximum pressure rise potential of axial compressor stages. Both the performances of cascades and the maximum pressure rise potential of axial compressor stages are experimentally got and corrected including the effects of Reynolds number. To validate the methods, the variation of performances and stability of a five-stage compressor in an extensive range of Reynolds numbers are estimated. Reynolds numbers are selected according to the variation of pressure, temperature and density of air at deferent altitudes to simulate the working atmosphere of aeroengine. Results prove that the performance and stability of compressors deteriorate with the decline of Reynolds number. The improvement of the performance and stability by increasing blade chord length is mentioned.