An experimental investigation of airfoil performance in wet gas flow

Development of wet gas compressors is challenging due to the liquid phase impact on performance. Experimental investigation of airfoil behavior in wet condition contributes to a revised compressor design and increased understanding of multiphase flow mechanisms. The performance of an airfoil was investigated in wet gas flow. An air-water mixture was used as the experimental fluid. The influence of wet gas flow on airfoil performance was investigated at different angles of incidence and gas volume fractions. A qualitative description of the complex physical process observed when liquid is introduced into the flow field is given. Airfoil performance was degraded at increased liquid mass flow rate owing to premature boundary layer separation. The initiation of separation was observed as a local film thickening, followed by increased liquid film fluctuations. A continuity wave was observed surrounding the airfoil, forming a U shape of increased liquid concentration. The wave was initiated by deposited droplets and the formation of secondary droplets. The investigation reveals that compressor operating range, surge and stall margins are affected by the wet gas fluid. Reviewed literature and experiments confirm a reduced stall and surge margin when a compressor is exposed to wet gas. Further investigation will involve sub-scale impeller tests to determine the effects on the performance and stability ranges.