A method for the prediction of Coriolis induced secondary flows and their influence on heat transfer in rotating ducts

During operation, the rotor blades of a gas turbine are exposed to high temperatures. By introducing cooling passages within the blade, it is possible to raise the gas temperature to which the blades can be subjected and to enhance, thereby, the overall thermal efficiency of the turbine. For the appropriate implementation of such an approach, an accurate prediction technique is required to evaluate the flow pattern and the heat transfer process. The present investigation is, therefore, concerned with the development of a model, based on finite element considerations, for the determination of the primary and secondary flow, and the associated heat transfer, in the cooling passages of rotating turbine blades. Attention is given to theoretical concepts, boundary conditions, the method of solution, and examples for illustrating the application of the discussed procedures.