Their learning experience is a collaboration between aircraft noise researchers at NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland and faculty at the University of Notre Dame’s Turbomachinery Laboratory. The goal of the collaboration is to foster student interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) careers.
Recently, Notre Dame hosted students from The Portage School of Leaders High School and a team from NASA Glenn to see an advanced noise control fan in action in an outdoor environment. The fan is a NASA-owned test rig configured to enable studies of quiet aircraft engine technology. Known as the open-rotor fan concept, the configuration involves an engine fan without a cover. Tests conducted by Notre Dame used ground microphones to measure radiated sound as open rotor fans spin at different speeds.
Students at the high school, which is part of the Career Academy network of public schools, used 3D printers from school facilities to create parts for an open-rotor test fan. Sections known as stator blades help direct and control airflow, ensuring smooth operation of the large, exposed fan blades that are a hallmark of open-fan engine designs.
“It was beyond words,” said Rebecca Anderson, a high school junior. “The part I enjoyed the most was when they turned on the fan. It was really impressive to see how quiet it was. I think STEM Everyone involved would love to work for NASA, including me.”
NASA researcher Dr. Daniel Self was part of the NASA Glenn team that spent time mentoring the students.
“It’s real world, hands-on research for them,” Sutliff said. “If airlines are able to use technologies to make flying quieter and cleaner, passengers will have more enjoyable flights.”
The Advanced Noise Control Fan is on loan to Notre Dame from NASA through a Space Act contract. Fan’s research is supported by NASA’s Advanced Air Transport Technology Project and its Efficient Quiet Integrated Propulsors technical challenge.