Similarity Parameters for Comparing Erosive Particle Trajectories in Hot Air and Cold Air Radial Inflow Turbines

The similarity parameters that can be used to relate erosive particle trajectories in hot gas and equivalent cold gas flows are derived from the equations of motion. The flow in a radial turbine is used as the basis for studying the range of applicability of these similarity parameters. The study includes the vortex and rotor regions of the radial turbine and indicates the ranges of Reynolds number within which these parameters can be used. In addition, the study shows that when general trends of particle trajectories are to be considered, and precise trajectories are not necessary, one of the similarity parameters can be used for Reynolds numbers that are not within the limits indicated for precisely similar trajectories.