Airflow Simulation Through Automotive Blowers Using Computational Fluid Dynamics

Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) investigations have been performed to assess the capability of CFD to aid in optimizing the shape of the blades and the housing of a radial blower regarding its efficiency.

The characteristics of the flow field within the blower wheel and between its blades as well as of the flow field in the suction and pressure region of the blower housing has been determined using CFD. The computed results have been compared with available experimental data.

Several simulation methods have been investigated using the multipurpose CFD code STAR-CD. To build the CFD-Models a Ford-developed parameter controlled mesh-generation program was used and is described here. Some promising results could be obtained. Recommendations of the required level of CFD-Model necessary to achieve acceptable results are given.