Numerical simulation and optimization of aerodynamic performance in a radial air turbine

3D viscous numerical simulation of internal flow field in a radial air turbine was investigated under the design condition by using CFD software FINE™/Turbo. The effects of two kinds of geometry shapes on the aerodynamic performance and secondary flow were analyzed in detail. The results indicate that, compared to the original, the efficiency of impeller with curved blades is evidently increased, and can meet the requirement according to the system parameters design. There are complicated flow phenomena in the flow of the rotor. By using the proper curved blades, the separation loss can be weakened and higher aerodynamic performance can be achieved. The achievements obtained from this paper would provide information for further engineering design of air turbine with optimal performance.