Session: 32-09 Novel Turbines

Submission Number: 179111

Influence of Pulse Detonation Frequency on Waves and Aerothermodynamic Performance of Axial Turbine 

The replacement of conventional combustors with pulse detonation combustors (PDCs) in gas turbine engines results in detonation-powered systems with superior thermal efficiency, positioning this technology as a promising next-generation propulsion solution. The flow structure and performance of downstream axial turbines are strongly influenced by propagating shock waves and post-wave high-energy fluid, demonstrating significant dependence on upstream combustor operating frequency. This study employed computational simulations of a single-stage axial turbine under varying PDC frequencies, specifically examining frequency effects on wave systems, flow structures, and aerothermal performance. Results indicate that increased PDC frequency enhances wave intensity and slightly accelerates the propagation of wave systems. This simultaneously modifies in-passage wave evolution topology and destabilizes turbine flow capacity through recurring wave interactions, while complicating post-wave high-energy fluid effects. Circumferentially distributed rotor blades experience wave impacts of varying intensities and temporal patterns, producing frequency-dependent evolution of unsteady aerodynamic forces—evidenced by transient loading reaching 60 times steady-state values at 20 Hz and exceeding 100 times at 80 Hz. Furthermore, thermal loading manifests through a wave-intensity-correlated, time-partitioned synergistic mechanism derived from continuous work transfer by propagating wave systems combined with post-wave high-energy fluid heating. This results in diametrically opposed frequency dependence during different detonation cycle phases. Overall, doubling the operating frequency increases power by 2.5% and mass flow by 5%, yet reduces efficiency by 10%, confirming strong frequency-dependent correlations in turbine transient performance.

Presenting Author: Yumo Mu Beihang University

Presenting Author Biography: Yumo Mu, (1996-), male, Ph.D student from School of Energy and Power Engineering, Beihang University, whose research previously focuses on extreme unsteady flow mechanisms and transient performance in turbine. His current research examines how pulse detonation frequency influences wave evolution mechanisms and shapes turbine aerothermal performance.

Authors:

Yumo Mu Beihang University
Weihao ZHANG Beihang University
Xiangli Liao Beihang University
Yufan Wang Beihang University