Effect of 3D blade design on the aerodynamic, aeroelastic and structural behavior of a scaled UHBR fan

Abstract

In this paper, the effect of a 3D blade design on the aerodynamic, aeroelastic and structural behavior of a scaled UHBR fan is investigated numerically. First, an initial sensitivity analysis for the geometrical design features sweep and lean as well as an adaption of the thickness position in the fan hub region is conducted. Positive sweep is found to benefit the total pressure ratio, while positive lean improves the polytropic efficiency of the fan stage. Moving the maximum thickness position upwards leads to decreased flow turning and total pressure ratio. The mode shape and by that the twist-to-plunge ratio of the first mode is significantly influenced by the modifications. Thus, changing the aerodynamic damping of the blade and influencing the flutter behavior of the fan. Additionally, the fan displacements under aerodynamic and rotational loads are affected. For the fan presented a positive lean causes the blade to bend towards the pressure side when subjected to inertial forces, countering deformation from aerodynamic loads. Thickness adaption moves the shear center of the cross sections to the back. These results are used to optimize the fan blade behavior to achieve the project’s objectives. A final design, which satisfies the aerodynamic, aeroelastic and structrual needs of the CA3ViAR fan stage, is presented.