Three-dimensional flow calculations inside SSME GGGT first stage blade rows

Abstract

A numerical analysis of the first stage of the Space Shuttle Main Engine (SSME) GGGT was conducted using a 3-D Reynolds averaged Navier-Stokes flow solver. This turbine stage was designed to improve both aerodynamic efficiency and durability. The blade has an unconventional shape with a large blade thickness. No experimental data is available to verify the computational results. The objective of the current study is to analyze this turbine blade stage with a well established Navier-Stokes computational method in order to determine if the turbine is operating in the subsonic flow regime and if these are any significant separated flow regions. The stage was analyzed in a steady state flow condition. The inlet vane was analyzed with the flow conditions from the axisymmetric entire stage solution. The viscous flow solution of the first vane is used as the inlet flow condition for the rotor.