Tip Clearance Flows in Axial Compressors and Pumps

Author: Rains, Dean Arthur

Year: 1954

Degree: Dissertation (Ph.D.)

Advisor: Rannie, W. Duncan

Committee Member: Unknown, Unknown

Option: Mechanical Engineering; Mathematics

DOI: 10.7907/MR84-WZ87

Abstract

Flow in the clearance at the rotor blade tips of axial flow compressors and pumps was studied experimentally and theoretically with particular attention to losses. It is shown that losses due to blade tip clearances can be evaluated in a simple manner for high efficiency turbomachines. A vortex sheet formed by the clearance flow was found to roll up into a vortex of such strength that cavitation in axial flow pumps begins in the vortex rather than on the blade surface.

Files