CFD simulation of TBCC inlet based on internal wave-rider concept

In order to improve the performances of turbine-based combined-cycle (TBCC) propulsion system, the newly internal wave-rider (IWR) high-speed inlet was applied into the design of TBCC so that its superior aerodynamic performance could be inherited. In this paper, the method of one-dimensional flow analysis was used for theoretical design and the calculation of typical sections in the internal wave-rider TBCC inlet, and it was proved reasonable and effective by the numerical simulation results. And then a feasible variable-geometry scheme integrated with the IWR inlet and diffuser for a TBCC was proposed, to rotate part of the compression surfaces around two axes, and movable plates were added to ensure the sealing property of airflow. Furthermore, CFD results indicated that the internal wave-rider TBCC inlet could work efficiently for the speed range of Ma0-4.0 conditions, the aerodynamic performances were of high levels which were inherited the advantages from the IWR inlet, such as strong ability of capturing mass flow, low total pressure loss along the flow path, great anti-backpressure capability. The overall performances were excellent for the downstream components of TBCC propulsion system.