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Propulsive modelling for JT9D-3, JT15D-4C and TF-30 turbofan engines using particle swarm optimization

Ridvan Oruc (Department of Airframe and Powerplant Maintenance, School of Civil Aviation, Kastamonu University, Kastamonu, Turkey)
Tolga Baklacioglu (Faculty of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Eskisehir Technical University, Eskişehir, Turkey)

Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology

ISSN: 0002-2667

Article publication date: 21 May 2020

229

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to create high-accuracy thrust modelling for cruise flight using particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, using PSO, new thrust models with high accuracy for the cruise flight stages of Pratt & Whitney JT9D-3, JT15D-4C and TF-30 engines were created. For this aim, real Mach number, flight altitude and thrust values taken from the engine manufacturers were used. In the model, thrust is given as a function of altitude and Mach number. The sensitivity of the results given by the PSO thrust model has been examined using several different error types. Finally, the effect of some PSO parameters on the created models is examined.

Findings

It was observed that the model created predicted real thrust values with high precision.

Practical implications

The PSO thrust model can be used in the trajectory estimates of today’s aircraft with the use of accurate scaling factors. In addition, using the developed PSO thrust model together with a correct aerodynamic model provides more effective management of air traffic flow in air traffic management applications. Combining the PSO model with fuel flow-rate models will significantly increase engine efficiency and performance; thus, making a major contribution to reducing engine emissions.

Originality/value

The originality of this study is that it is the first thrust modelling made with PSO in the literature for turbofan engines. The use of real data in the study and the creation of models for several different turbofan engines are important for the reliability of thrust models.

Keywords

Citation

Oruc, R. and Baklacioglu, T. (2020), "Propulsive modelling for JT9D-3, JT15D-4C and TF-30 turbofan engines using particle swarm optimization", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 92 No. 6, pp. 939-946. https://doi.org/10.1108/AEAT-02-2020-0031

Publisher

:

Emerald Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2020, Emerald Publishing Limited

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