What direction do you blend a compressor blade?

• A. Left to right
• B. Front to back
• C. Tip to root
• D. Root to tip

Answer: (D)

Blending a compressor blade is about smoothing the surface without changing its aerodynamic shape or structural integrity. The correct direction is from the root toward the tip.

Starting at the root preserves the blade’s attachment geometry and allows material to be removed in a controlled, progressive way along the blade span, maintaining the original camber and twist distribution. This helps prevent creating a lip or changing the root thickness, which could weaken the blade or affect fit.

Blending from tip to root or in directions other than along the span can distort the airfoil contour or compromise the root area, leading to performance loss or fatigue risk.