Calculations of three-dimensional viscous flow in a multiblade centrifugal fan by modelling blade forces

A numerical study is presented for Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes analysis of three-dimensional turbulent flows in a multiblade centrifugal fan. Present work aims at development of a relatively simple analysis method for these complex flows. A mathematical model of impeller forces is obtained from the integral analysis of the flow through the impeller. A finite volume method for discretization of governing equations and a standard k-ɛ model as turbulence closure are employed. For the validation of the mathematical model, the computational results for velocity components, static pressure, and flow angles at the exit of the impeller were compared with experimental data. The comparisons show generally good agreement, especially at higher flow coefficients.