Vortex generator evaluation models and flow mechanisms for compressor cascade

In axial compressors, control of the secondary flow is crucial for enhancing aerodynamic performance. Among various control strategies, vortex generators (VGs) are an effective passive method combining simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and reliability. This study investigates the VG evaluation model to assess VG effectiveness in reducing total pressure loss (ω) and controlling secondary flows. The impact of parameters such as the VG placement, stagger angle α, height, and length on the flow field and underlying flow mechanisms is analyzed, and methods for selecting the design parameters are examined. The findings reveal that positioning VGs near regions with high velocity differentials and away from the suction surface significantly reduces secondary flows. Achieving a balance between reducing total pressure loss ω and controlling secondary flows requires careful selection of the stagger angle α, as well as the height and length of VG. This study presents the design characteristic curve and identifies two key VG operation mechanisms that depend on the stagger angle α. The results of this study advance the development of more efficient VG designs and deepen our understanding of their operational mechanisms.