Flow field in a low-speed axial fan: a DPIV investigation

The characteristics of the how in a low-speed axial fan were investigated u sing digital particle image velocimetry (DPIV). Instantaneous and time-aver aged velocity measurements were made at the leading-edge, trailing-edge, an d suction and pressure sides of the blade by synchronizing the passage of t he blade with the laser and camera system. These measurements revealed stea dy and unsteady flow features at several operating points and allowed a com posite DPIV image around the entire fan blade to be made. This composite im age was compared with a panel code solution, and the main differences found between them were attributed to local viscous effects such as flow separat ion and wake unsteadiness that are not included in the present panel code i mplementation. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Inc. All rights reserved.