This paper describes a new research facility designed to study the effect of rotation on heat transfer in the cooling channels of gas turbine rotor blades. Rotation influences cooling performance via secondary flows generated because of Coriolis forces and centripetal buoyancy. The resulting complex three-dimensional flow creates asymmetric heat transfer over the channel surface. The research facility has been designed to permit experiments to be undertaken that are near to actual engine conditions. The paper includes details of the design philosophy, construction and commissioning of the facility, together with a selection of experimental data.
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