Applications of structural efficiency assessment method on structural-mechanical characteristics integrated design in aero-engines

In the design process of advanced aero-engines, it is necessary to carry out an effective analysis method between structural features and mechanical characteristics for a better structural optimization. Based on the structural composition and functions of aero-engines, the concept and contents of structural efficiency can reflect the relation between structural features and mechanical characteristics. In order to achieve the integrated design of structural and mechanical characteristics, one quantitative analysis method called Structural Efficiency Assessment Method (SEAM) was put forward. The structural efficiency coefficient was obtained by synthesizing the parameters to quantitatively evaluate the aero-engine structure design level. Parameterization method to evaluate structural design quality was realized. After analyzing the structural features of an actual dual-rotor system in typical high bypass ratio turbofan engines, the mechanical characteristics and structural efficiency coefficient were calculated. Structural efficiency coefficient of high-pressure rotor (0.43) is higher than that of low-pressure rotor (0.29), which directly shows the performance of the former is better, there is room for improvement in structural design of the low-pressure rotor. Thus the direction of structural optimization was pointed out. The applications of SEAM shows that the method is operational and effective in the evaluation and improvement of structural design.