Flexibility and understanding in three-dimensional diffusing flows (J. Taylor, Univ. Cambridge)

Decarbonisation requires the propulsion and power industries to be flexible to new architectures and products. Understanding the underlying thermofluid mechanisms will be essential for the success of these products. This talk presents the flexibility of some recent research approaches and contributions to understanding of the field. The first part of the presentation details recent advances in understanding and exploitation of 3D flows. Using both experimental and computational methods to investigate the flow topology and loss mechanisms has allowed new design criteria and geometries with increased performance. Three applications are shown: gas turbine compressor aerodynamics, hybrid rocket engines for space access and an all-electric liftfan currently in development. The second part presents some research approaches of the future; how emerging experimental and analysis methods could be used within a new centre being built in Cambridge.