99-11: Advanced Airfoils for Cooling Tower Fan Blades

The objective of this study was to explore the benefits of advanced airfoil technology for industrial cooling tower fan blades. An existing fan performance prediction code was used to identify desirable airfoil characteristics for large tapered/twisted blades. The Eppler Airfoil design and analysis Code was then used to design advanced airfoils for the bade root and tip region. Results show and new airfoils allow a 20% reduction in blade chord relative to current blades. The predicted power reduction using the new airfoils was 1% to 2%. Further power reductions may be realized as a result of lower cascade flow losses and improved airfoil insensitivity to roughness effects.