Abstract: An axial flow turbomachine has at least one circumferential row of aerofoil members in which at least one of the two end walls (33) between successive blades (30) is given a non-axisymmetric profile to modify the boundary layer flow at the wall. In one form of the profile, a convex region (33) adjacent each member pressure surface (35) and a complementary concave region (34) adjacent each member suction surface (34) extend over at least a major part of the blade chord lengths to reduce the transverse pressure gradient and thereby reduce vortical energy losses. In another form of the profile, at least one end wall (33) has complementary convex and concave regions (50,51) extending through the zone of the trailing edges of the members (30) on the suction end pressure surface sides (34,35) respectively of each member, thereby to reduce over turning of the flow. Both forms of profiling can be employed in combination.

Abstract: An unshrouded turbine rotor blade 24 for use particularly in gas turbine engines comprising an aerofoil 30 having a leading edge 32 and a trailing edge 34. The radially outer extremity of the aerofoil 30 having a passage 42 defined by a peripheral wall 44. An aperture is formed within the wall 44 in the proximity of the trailing edge 32 of the aerofoil portion 30. The walled passage 42 is provided to capture and retain air or gas flowing over the tip of the aerofoil 30 and redirect the flow through the aperture 46 at the trailing edge of the aerofoil 30.