Genetic algorithm-based platform for the optimized design of blade profiles and its applications

In view of the ever growing role played by numerical optimization in turbo-machinery design, a design platform was developed for turbine blade optimization based on a genetic algorithm. By using the platform, an optimization analysis has been conducted of two calculation cases along with the optimization of the bending and sweeping of the stacked generatrix of a fan rotor blade and the optimization of three-dimensional blade thickness distribution for rotating blades in a single-stage turbine. In addition, the optimized results were compared with those of the prototype, and an analysis was also conducted. The comparison results show that the optimization design platform thus developed can be used for the three-dimensional optimization of blades, effectively enhancing the blade performance and improving relevant flow conditions. A single-target optimization can not guarantee that a turbine attains an ideal performance at all the operating conditions. The parameterization description of the blades is of major significance for the optimization and will eventually decide the quality of the final optimized results.