Evaluation of film cooling effect in multi-row hole configurations on turbine blade leading edge

The present study evaluated the film cooling performance of turbine blade leading edges with multi-row hole configurations. Numerical models were refined to improve simulation accuracy by adjusting the turbulent viscosity coefficient, enhancing the prediction of jet diffusion in stagnation areas. The film cooling effectiveness distribution was analyzed through pressure-sensitive paint (PSP) experiments, and the numerical method was validated. The Sellers formula, a two-dimensional model, was used to evaluate the impact of upstream jets on downstream film cooling, with comparisons to simulations. The results show that the Sellers formula generally predicts well at low blowing ratios, but strong interactions between the mainstream and secondary jets, along with vortex formation between hole rows, undermine its accuracy at high blowing ratios, creating a concentrated high-effectiveness cooling zone. Changes in hole row layout affect the film cooling effectiveness distribution but have minimal impact on area-average predictions by the Sellers formula. Combining experimental data at high blowing ratios with the Sellers formula provides critical insights for designing leading edge multi-row hole film cooling structures. This study emphasizes the importance of understanding vortex structures and jet interactions to optimize film cooling strategies, offering significant value for engineering designs in turbine blades. •The impact of hole layout on leading edge film cooling was assessed.•Turbulent viscosity correction enhanced numerical accuracy of leading edge film cooling.•The flow and vortex features were obtained by numerical simulation.•The distribution pattern of leading-edge film cooling was measured using PSP technology.•The Sellers formula combined with experiments guides effective engineering design.