Computational characterization of an axial rotor fan

Abstract

Axial flow fans are broadly applied in numerous industrial applications because of their simplicity, compactness and moderately low cost, such us propulsion machines and cooling systems. Computational fluid dynamics techniques are commonly applied to investigate flow phenomena through the axial fan and the rotor dynamic performance. In the present work, a computational model of an axial fan is presented in the current study. Numerical simulations of a single stage axial fan on variable conditions have been performed to obtain the detailed flow field of the centrifugal fan. The investigation of the current work is focused on the rotor–stator configuration and the modeling of aerodynamic behavior of the blade rows. The precise prediction of axial force and efficiency has essential implication for the optimized operation of axial fan and the choice of thrust bearing. Furthermore, it can act as guide for the geometrical and structural axial fan design and the study of axial force prediction.