Mr Alin Sonny

Research project: An Investigation Into Transonic Flows Over High-Pressure Gas Turbine Blade Tip | Aerospace Engineering

Abstract

In the ever-evolving global aviation industry, addressing environmental emissions remains paramount. As the sector grapples with substantial carbon footprints, the push for greater fuel efficiency becomes undeniably critical. To put this into perspective, even a slight 0.5% reduction in fuel burn could translate to an economic gain, saving airliners upwards of £77m annually whilst simultaneously extending component longevity (Stephens, T, & Morris, 2007). A deep dive into turbomachinery reveals that pronounced disruptions arise in turbine aerodynamics and blade thermal behaviour, especially under intense pressures and temperatures nearing 2000°C. Such conditions lead to undesirable leakage flows at the blade tip and expedited flow acceleration, resulting in flow separations and vortex formations. These, in turn, leads to aerodynamic losses.

This investigation aims to navigate these complexities, seeking to bridge knowledge gaps and formulate innovative strategies to reduce the tip leakage flow in turbine stages, all underpinned by rigorous, optimised research methodologies tailored for future sustainable aeroengine development.