Session: 10-03 Fan Design and Optimization

Paper Number: 127168

127168 - Multi-Point Aerodynamic Optimization of a Backward-Curved Impeller Fan 

The centrifugal fan finds widespread application in contemporary building ventilation and air-conditioning systems. Nonetheless, it faces challenges in meeting the growing need for energy efficiency, heightened performance, and reduced noise levels. These limitations stem from the inherent constraints imposed by the circular arc blade design. In this paper, aerodynamic optimization of a backward-curved centrifugal fan was carried out. For this purpose, 3D CFD simulation outputs of the initial fan were first validated against test data. Then, through definition of five geometric design parameters, blade flow angle distribution, from leading edge (LE) to trailing edge (TE), was optimized within its operating range through employing a surrogate-based optimization technique. Efficiencies at different operating points of the fan were selected as objectives while the constraints of the optimization practice include flowrates as well as blade thicknesses of the initial geometry. The suggested optimum geometry by surrogate model was simulated by CFD to assess the meta-model predictions. The computed results demonstrated up to 1.7% increase in efficiency in its operating range compared to the initial model. Moreover, Studying the flow features passing through the blades indicated an improved aerodynamic behaviour with reduced separation zones of the optimized geometry compared with the initial one. Geometric comparison of initial and optimized geometries also revealed a curvature redistribution in fan blades.

Presenting Author: Hamid Motamedi Zokae University of Exeter

Presenting Author Biography: I hold a M.S in mechanical engineering (energy conversion) from Tarbiat Modares University in 2007.
I have worked for Mapna turbine blade co (PARTO) from 2009 to 2022 as aero-thermal design expert.
In 2022, I Joined University of Exeter as a product development engineer for a KTP (Knowledge Transfer Partnership) project with Torin Sifan company.

Authors:

Hamid Motamedi Zokae University of Exeter
Gavin Tabor University of Exeter
David Moxey King's College London
Martin Page Torin Sifan
Martin Stokes Torin Sifan