Loss Reduction Using Riblets on a Supersonic Through-Flow Fan Blade Cascade

An experimental and computational study to determine the effects of riblets on the performance of the Supersonic Throughflow Fan (STF) cascade blades was performed. The cascade was tested in the Virginia Tech intermittent wind tunnel facility, where the Mach and Reynolds (based on chord) numbers were 2.36 and $4.8×106,$ respectively. The riblet sheets were symmetric $v$-grooved type and were applied onto the blade surfaces. Three different riblet heights were tested: 0.023, 0.033, and 0.051 mm. Riblet testing was conducted at design incidence as well as at off-design conditions (incidence angles: +5, −10 deg). Loss coefficients were measured and compared with a control test case where an equivalent thickness of smooth material was applied to the blade. Results show that at the design incidence, the riblet sheet with a height of 0.033 mm provides the optimal benefit, with a reduction of 8.5% in loss coefficient compared to the control case. Smaller effects were measured at the off-design conditions. In addition to the experimental study, a numerical investigation of the riblet effect on the STF cascade was conducted at design incidence. A simple method was developed to model riblet effects due to decrease in turbulent viscous drag and the delay of turbulent transition on the blades. Conclusions from numerical study indicate the 2/3 of the total decrease in losses are the result of delaying the transition location. The final 1/3 decrease in loss coefficient comes from the decrease in turbulent viscous losses.