Review of Low Aspect Ratio Blade Dynamics for Electrical Axial Fans and Compressors

The quest for lighter and shorter propulsion systems has led to the reduction of axial compressor and fan blade chord-lengths. Theoretical and experimental results show that the geometrical aspect-ratio criterion significantly affects the overall performance of axial flow compressors and fans. In conducting this review, it was found that the experimental results differ from one literature source to another. Highlighting that the way in which blade aspect ratio affects the performance of axial flow compressors and fans is still not fully understood. Nonetheless, the reviewed literature has still proven valuable for compressor and fan design. This paper focuses on creating a review of the available literature relating to how low aspect ratio blades may affect the performance of electrical axial compressors and fans.