A numerical study of the effect of the nose cone geometry on the performance of the centrifugal compressor in a micro-turbojet engine

Abstract

Conventional research on compressor design often ignores the impact of the nose cone. This results in imprecise performance evaluations. By including the nose cone in the analysis, we can more accurately simulate operational conditions. This inclusion of the nose cone leads to results that better reflect how the machine actually behaves. Considering the nose cone as a design variable enables geometric optimization to enhance compressor efficiency. This study aims to boost engine performance without changing the main structure of the compressor. It can serve as a key reference for organizations that work with gas turbine systems. The analysis begins with a baseline model of an existing compressor that lacks a nose cone. Next, we introduce various existing nose cone shapes and assess their effect on compressor performance using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations. The simulations maintain consistent operating conditions, with the nose cone rotating at the same speed as the rotor hub. We then integrate the best nose cone configuration identified into the original compressor design.