Session: 34-20 Solver methods 4

Paper Number: 125663

125663 - Design of a Multi-Purpose High-Speed Rotating Rig, for the Rapid Testing of Compressor, Turbine and Fan Single Stages 

This paper summaries the design and analysis activities completed in the development of the new high-speed rotating rig for the National Centre for Propulsion (NCPP) at the Whittle Laboratory, University of Cambridge, UK. The test rig is intended to work in multiple modes; compressor, turbine and fan mode. To facilitate this functionality, the rotating rig must be able to drive the test article via an electric motor (compressor mode) or be driven by the on-coming airflow, with the motor acting as a generator (turbine mode). The primary objective of the test rig is to enable rapid testing of single stages over a range of test conditions, up to 8barG and circa 13,500 RPM.

This paper details various design considerations which were pivotal in facilitating this functionality. Key areas of focus include: - The overall architecture to facilitate rapid access and strip down.

- The design methodology for ensuring robust flow presentation at the test article over the planned range of test conditions.

- The design of the rotatives which can withstand anticipated axial loading in both directions depending on test campaign whilst remaining adequately sealed.

- The rotordynamics assessment taking into account the range of test article sizes and rotating speeds.

- The containment solution to mitigate blade-off or burst disc failure modes.

Presenting Author: Leon Harman Frewer Engineering

Presenting Author Biography: Leon Harman is a Lead Design & Analysis engineer. Leon specialises in the design and analysis of high speed rotating equipment, with a key focus on rotordynamics, vibration analysis and material science and metallurgy relevant to structural analysis.

Authors:

Leon Harman Frewer Engineering
Kristian Mahon Frewer Engineering
Richard Lock Frewer Engineering
Thomas Bradwell Hyde Group Ltd
Nick Atkins University of Cambridge
Tolga Yasa University of Cambridge
James Taylor University of Cambridge