Structural Topology Optimization of Turbomachinery Components Using New Manufacturing Techniques and Innovative Materials

Structural topology optimization is an innovative approach in turbomachinery to satisfy the increasing demand for higher rotational speeds, light components and optimized natural frequencies, with a remarkable economic impact. Although this approach has never been extensively applied before to rotating machines, it is very promising for the mechanical optimization of rotor and stator components. This approach enables the creation of complex three-dimensional geometries, which are usually difficult or impossible to be built using traditional manufacturing methods. Thanks to innovative technologies and to the use of innovative materials, it is now possible to effectively exploit topology optimization. It allows to change the topology of the structures, significantly improving material distribution within a given design space for a given set of boundary conditions and loads. In this work, the authors have deeply investigated the applicability of topology optimization to the fields of turbomachinery and rotordynamics.