Numerical study of corner separation in a linear compressor cascade using various turbulence models

Three-dimensional corner separation is a common phenomenon that significantly affects compressor performance. Turbulence model is still a weakness for RANS method on predicting corner separation flow accurately. In the present study, numerical study of corner separation in a linear highly loaded prescribed velocity distribution (PVD) compressor cascade has been investigated using seven frequently used turbulence models. The seven turbulence models include Spalart-Allmaras model, standard k-e model, realizable k-e model, standard k-ω model, shear stress transport k-ω model, v²-f model and Reynolds stress model. The results of these turbulence models have been compared and analyzed in detail with available experimental data. It is found the standard k-e model, realizable k-e model, v²-f model and Reynolds stress model can provide reasonable results for predicting three dimensional corner separation in the compressor cascade. The Spalart-Allmaras model, standard k-ω model and shear stress transport k-ω model overestimate corner separation region at incidence of 0°. The turbulence characteristics are discussed and turbulence anisotropy is observed to be stronger in the corner separating region.