Aeroacoustic Optimization of a Pressure-Side Strut Configuration for Subsonic Axial Fans Using Statistical-Empirical Modelling

This paper deals with the reduction of aerodynamically generated noise in passenger car Cooling-Fan-Modules (CFM), caused by the interaction between the impeller and the downstream-located strut configuration of the axial fan. Even after the car engine is switched off, the fan remains active, as long as cooling is required for certain vehicle components. Especially after a car has been parked in closed parking areas, in close proximity to residential buildings or public places, the noise emission can be a problem. This issue is addressed by dampening the rotor-stator-interaction through passive construction measures. In order to ensure optimal noise reduction, 8 critical design features of the struts are identified and investigated using statistical design of experiment methods (DoE). Based on the results, dedicated insights about the effects of concrete strut features on significant regions of the acoustic fan spectrum are obtained. Furthermore, an optimized strut configuration is derived and metrologically validated using a polyoptimization method. Compared to a current serial baseline configuration, a reduction of the overall sound pressure level by 2.6 dB(A), as well as a reduction of the blade passage frequency tone by 17.6 dB(A) is achieved.