How can I solve a crossflow fan problem in Ansys Fluent (Or similar type of problem where the rotation rate is unknown and must be solved for)?
Usually, in rotating machinery simulations, the rotation rate of the rotor is known or imposed, and so it is just specified as omega for the fluid zone that contains the impeller. The problem is then solved as a moving frame or sliding mesh problem, depending on whether it is steady or transient.
If the fan rotation rate is part of the solution, Ansys Fluent must be setup to calculate the forces imposed by the fluid on the fan blades. These forces then drive the impeller rotation.
This problem can be solved as a 6-DOF problem. The boundary conditions and interfaces are set up as usual. The 6-DOF steps and some other tips are outlined below. The solution must be set up as transient, since 6-DOF is classified as a Dynamic Mesh simulation.
Please see the attached resolution document for more details.