The calculation of fluid flow through a torque converter turbine at stall
Date
2005-12
Authors
Van der Merwe, Joachim Christoffel
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Stellenbosch : University of Stellenbosch
Abstract
The two-dimensional flow-field through the stationary blade row of a radial inflow turbine in a torque converter was analysed by means of a potential flow model and a viscous flow model. The purpose was to compare the accuracy with which the two flow models predict the flow field through the static turbine blade row. The freestream turbulence level necessary to optimise the accuracy of the viscous flow model was also investigated.
A first order source-vortex panel method with flat panels was used to apply the potential flow model. A radial inflow freestream was used. It was found that the stator blade row directly upstream of the turbine had to be included in the analysis to direct the flow at the turbine inlet. Even then the panel method did not satisfactorily predict the pressure distribution on a typical blade of the static 2nd turbine blade row.
A two-dimensional viscous flow model gave excellent results. Furthermore, the two-dimensional viscous flow model was simple to set up due to the fact that symmetry boundary conditions could be used. This facilitated useful predictions of the salient features of the two-dimensional flow through the middle of the radial turbine blade row.
Description
Thesis (MScEng (Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering))--University of Stellenbosch, 2005.
Keywords
Dissertations -- Mechanical engineering, Theses -- Mechanical engineering, Hydraulic torque converters, Radial inflow turbine, Two-dimensional viscous flow