This paper presents in detail the improved streamline curvature approach (SLC) to the performance evaluation and internal flow field calculation of subsonic and transonic axial compressors. Based on previous research, the diverse incidence, deviation and total pressure loss models, generally existing in the form of fitting curves and semi-empirical correlations, are discussed respectively. Typically, transonic flow in axial compressor results in the variation of several flow parameters and particularly the appearance of shock waves compared with subsonic flow. In this paper, the revision and improvement of loss models are applied to reach higher accuracy, especially considering the loss component due to actual incidence angle. Several modifications have been made as well considering the influence of three-dimensional flow. For the purpose of validating this approach, two test cases, including a single-stage transonic axial compressor NASA Stage37 and a 3-stage subsonic axial compressor P&W 3S1, are calculated. The overall characteristics and spanwise aerodynamic parameters for blade rows are demonstrated at both design and off-design conditions. Furthermore, the results agree well with both experimental data and computational fluid dynamic (CFD) results. This throughflow method is verified as an applicable and convenient tool for aerodynamic analysis and performance prediction of subsonic and transonic axial compressors.
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