Prediction of near- and far-field noise generated by contra-rotating open rotors

An innovative aeroacoustic prediction method for Contra-Rotating Open Rotors (CROR) based on the nonlinear harmonic method (NLH) for the CFD computations and on the Ffowcs Williams and Hawkings (FW-H) equations for the far-field acoustic propagation is described. This method is tested on a generic 8 x 8 puller CROR at typical take-off conditions. The outstanding efficiency of the prediction method in terms of CPU cost is demonstrated in this study. An analysis of the aerodynamic interactions between the two rotors as well as of the aeroacoustic field radiated in the far-field is presented, allowing for an improved understanding of noise generation mechanisms.