WP2.1 Summary Architecture and Specification
Test data from Rig 145 Geared Open Rotor running at DREAM partners DNW and ARA has permitted for an optimised re-specification of vehicle and test programme to be in place for additional testing in 2010. Further noise and aerodynamic data from the optimised design to be captured in low speed wind tunnel testing.
WP2.2 & WP2.3 Installed and uninstalled aero/acoustic rig testing
DREAM objectives to generate and capture aerodynamic and nosie data from rig testing were achieved in 2009. The programme will continue to maintain, optimise and collate data such that:
- Further enhancements in the understanding of low and high speed optimisation at different RPM/Pitch/Mn configurations to increase Open Rotor understanding
- Improvements in the understanding of test data correction and correlation
- Acquisition of data to understand change in performance relative to design points chosen
- Build knowledge database at different conditions to increase confidence in CFD and its understanding
- Acquisition of quality data to undestand key aero-mechanical parameters to permit the creation of enhanced blade designs.
WP2.4 Pitch Control and System Integration
Rolls-Royce and SCITEK have continued to develop a test rig in line with WP2.4 objectives. A test rig has been developed to make bearing friction measurements under conditions representative of open rotor technology. Novel hydrostatic bearings have been designed and manufactured to apply centrifugal and thrust loads in a frictionless manner. Real-time control and data acquisition is employed to obtain high speed, high accuracy bearing friction measurements. Test data from the rig will feed directly into design and control system of the Pitch Control Machanism (PCM) of an open rotor engine.
Labview Based Control Software
WP2.5 LP Turbine Design
WP2.5 aims to develop the design of an optimised Low Pressure Turbine for the geared open rotor configuration. Through DREAM the programme will:
- Define and validate aerodynamic technologies to maximise efficiency
- Define low weight technologies for use in geared open rotor engines
- Develop the design and analysis methods required in the design to predict life
Technical progress throughout these years has enabled the characterisation and design of High Speed Low Pressure system.
Aerodynamic testing and thereafter analysis of data have been achieved. Experimental results have been fed back to conceptual design to select the optimum solution taking account efficiency, weight and noise.
Detailed design has been developed for critical parts and to demonstrate potential opportunities, when necessary.
ITP with collaboration of DREAM partner Universidad Politecnica de Madrid, has developed an advanced High Cycle Fatigue calculation methodology to be applied in Low and High speed turbine designs.