SMURF Rig

The focus of the SMURF Rig is on developing new core compressor technologies ready for adoption into the next aero-engine (i.e. 5-10 years to entry into service).

The SMURF Rig simulates the high-pressure compressor of an aero-engine – like a real aero-engine compressor, the SMURF rig features many blade rows. . Its large size and low pressure ratio mean that highly accurate & detailed measurements of the flow inside an aero-engine compressor can be made easily. This capability is used to both deliver understanding and for the testing/ development of new aerodynamic concepts. The SMURF Rig can be fitted with realistic stator shrouds (as illustrated above/ right/ below/ left) or with “cantilevered” stators to simulate all types of core compressor configuration.

The SMURF Rig has been recently been redesigned to be a “rapid test” facility (see illustration above/ right/ below/ left) – much like the Gibbons’ Rig (link) but in a multi-stage environment. The step change in experimental throughput allows the rig to be responsive to real world problems and to test more concepts to be developed more quickly.

CAD visualization of rapid test SMURF rig

 

Photograph of the SMURF Rig