A prediction model for tip clearance of multi-stage axial compressors in different operating conditions was proposed

considering the effect of thermal and mechanical loading. The radial and axial temperature distribution across every stage of the multi-stage axial compressors was considered by the proposed model to ensure the accuracy. The model was validated by General Electric Company (GE) E3 engine test results. The comparison shows that the proposed model has high accuracy to uncover the varying rule of tip clearance in different operating conditions

and the relative errors are 0.8%

5.6%

3.7% in the calculation of tip clearance for stage 3

5

and 10

respectively. The estimated trend in the variation of disk cavity cold airflow with tip clearance is consistent with the experimental data

and the relative errors are 9.7% and 6.7% in the estimated tip clearance of stage 3 and 10

respectively. The maximum change of tip clearance obtained with the active control technology in the tests is 0.2032mm at the stage 10

which is estimated as 0.14mm using the model. The magnitude of tip clearance and the tip clearance active control technology effects are estimated quite well

and the proposed model is verified.