Comparison of Computational Fluid Dynamics and Particle Image Velocimetry Data for the Airflow in an Aeroengine Bearing Chamber

Investigations into the single-phase velocity field of a model aeroengine bearing chamber are presented. Adequately resolving the airflow field is important to subsequent computational modeling of two-phase fluid transport and heat transfer characteristics. A specially designed test rig, representing the features of a Rolls Royce Trent series aeroengine bearing chamber, was constructed. Experimental data for the airflow field was obtained using particle image velocimetry (PIV). The results show a strong influence of shaft rotation and chamber geometry on the flow features within the bearing chamber. A computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation was carried out using the commercial CFD code FLUENT 6. Flow features were adequately modeled, showing the features of secondary velocities. Turbulence modeling using the differential Reynolds stress (RSM) model shows good agreement with the experimental data.

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