An optimal design for axial-flow fan blade: theoretical and experimental studies

The technique of inverse design problem (IDP) for optimizing the three-dimensional shape of an axial-flow fan blade based on the desired airflow rate is presented in this work. The desired volume flow rate of air can be obtained from the airflow rate of the existing axialflow fan by multiplying it with a constant which is greater than unity. The geometry of the redesigned fan blade is generated using numerous design variables, which enables the shape of the fan blade to be constructed completely; thus the technique of parameter estimation for the inverse design problem can be used in this study. Results show that with the redesigned optimal fan blade, the airflow rate of fan can be increased, thereby improving the performance of the axial-flow fan. Finally, to verify the validity of this work, the prototypes of the original and optimal axial-flow fan blades are fabricated and fan performance tests are conducted with these blades on the basis of the AMCA-210-99 standard. The algorithm used in the present study can be applied to the blade design problem in any propulsion and power systems.