Deficiencies in the Spalart–Allmaras Turbulence Model for the Prediction of the Stability Boundary in Highly Loaded Compressors

Abstract Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) equations are employed for aerodynamic and aeroelastic modeling in axial compressors. Their solutions are highly dependent on the turbulence models for closure. The main objective of this work is to assess the widely used Spalart–Allmaras model suitability for high-speed compressor flows. For this purpose, an extensive investigation of the sources of uncertainties in a high-speed multi-stage compressor rig was carried out. The grid resolution near the casing end wall, which affects the tip leakage flow and casing boundary layer, was found to have a major effect on the stability limit prediction. Refinements in this region led to a stall margin loss prediction. It was found that this loss was exclusively due to the destruction term in the SA model.