Innovative Diagnostic Instrumentation for Aerodynamic Instabilities in Axial Compressors

This proposal addresses the need for diagnostic systems for compressors in gas turbine engines. An innovative system is proposed for detecting the inception and development of aerodynamic instability in axial compressor stages. The innovation lies in processing rotor-dynamic data from a magnetic bering system to determine the aerodynamic performance. The inception of stall, which is characterized by subsynchronous rotating structures in the flow field, can be detected and analyzed. The related phenomenon of surge can be detected in a similar manner. In Phase I, the feasibility will be demonstrated with design studies and computer simulations. The system will be built and tested in a full-scale engine rig in Phase II.