Investigating Turbofan Engine Internal Aerodynamics

The intent of a balanced engine design process is to satisfy all systems requirements including operability, performance and durability. Due to the complexity of the trade-off process of the various metrics it is possible that system improvements may be required after a turbofan engine enters production. Also, in the case of derivative engines, configured for increased performance, the flowpath aerodynamics may be challenged and may have to be examined to ensure there is no flow field anomaly. By incorporating special diagnostic aero instrumentation at the earliest opportunity any required operability improvement can be identified and corrective action taken. The paper first delineates the component matching challenges of twin spool mixed flow turbofan engines. Then it discusses investigation of various potential destabilizing influences. Examples are presented on quantifying transient fan stall margin, investigating internal flow quality, verifying absence of secondary flow reversals, and on the analysis of compressor interstage measurements for the identification of weak stages. The process described contributes to continuous product improvement.