Automated blade optimization and 3D CFD analysis for an axial multistage GT compressor redesign

This paper focuses on (1) the basic compressor layout based on meridional through flow analysis and (2) the re-design of blades and vanes using sophisticated automated design optimization methods. All tools and processes are integrated into a consistent Compressor Design System, which runs on a powerful Linux cluster. This design system allows designing, analyzing and documenting blade design in mostly automated way. This frees. the engineer from repetitive tasks and allows him to concentrate on a physical understanding and improvement of the compressor. The tools and methods are illustrated on the basis of an actual ALSTOM compressor. The main objectives of this upgrade are a modest increase in mass flow and an efficiency improvement. The latter is to be achieved through the replacement of NACA blades by modem Controlled Diffusion Airfoils (CDA). Results are presented including a CFD analysis of the front stages of the baseline and upgrade compressor.