Aerothermal simulation of gas turbine blade cooling channel using Lattice-Boltzmann method

Simulations using the Lattice-Boltzmann Method (LBM) are benchmarked to experimental cooling channel studies performed at the von Karman Institute for Fluid Dynamics. The experimental geometry is representative of a typical rib-turbulated cooling channel for a gas turbine rotor blade. The work aims at describing the flow physics involved, providing a better comprehension of the role of turbulence in augmenting heat transfer. Computations are found to be in agreement with the available experimental data highlighting the accuracy of LBM for aerodynamic and thermal prediction. Results are also compared to Navier-Stokes Large Eddy Simulation (LES). The reduced computational cost compared to LES-based methods offers interesting perspectives for future developments.