Numerical Simulation of Turbulent Flow in Aircraft Engines

Abstract

                        Accurate characterization of turbulent flow within aircraft engines remains a critical challenge in aerospace engineering. This complexity directly impacts engine performance, efficiency, and noise generation. This article reviews the state-of-the-art in numerical simulation techniques for analyzing turbulent flow within various components of aircraft engines, including compressors, turbines, and combustors. Different approaches, including Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS), Large Eddy Simulation (LES), and Direct Numerical Simulation (DNS), are discussed along with their respective advantages and limitations. The article highlights recent advancements in turbulence modeling, particularly the development of hybrid RANS-LES and machine learning-assisted turbulence closures. The impact of numerical simulations on engine design and optimization is emphasized, demonstrating their ability to improve efficiency, reduce noise, and enhance operational longevity. Finally, challenges and future directions in computational fluid dynamics (CFD) for aircraft engines are outlined, focusing on improving model accuracy, reducing computational cost, and integrating multi-physics simulations.