COLLECTOR OF AT LEAST ONE LIQUID FOR AN AIRCRAFT TURBOMACHINE

Abstract

The invention relates to a collector (20) comprising: - a first compartment (22) having a first liquid inlet (23), - a second compartment (24) having a second liquid inlet (25), - a liquid discharge pipe (41) comprising a second liquid outlet (42) opening outside the enclosure (21), characterized in that the discharge pipe (41) is configured to discharge liquid from the first compartment (22) outside the enclosure (21) when the liquid level in the first compartment (22) is greater than a first threshold level (S1) of liquid in the first compartment (22), and to discharge liquid from the second compartment (24) outside the enclosure (21) when the liquid level in the second compartment (24) is greater than a second threshold level (S2) of liquid in the second compartment (24). abstract figure: 2

Description

Title of the invention: COLLECTOR OF AT LEAST ONE LIQUID FOR AN AIRCRAFT TURBOMACHINE Technical field of the invention

[0001] The invention relates to the field of collectors of at least one liquid, for an aircraft turbomachine. Technical background

[0002] A turbomachine, in particular an aircraft turbomachine, generally extends along and around a longitudinal axis. In the case of a twin-spool, twin-flow turbomachine, it comprises a gas generator which typically comprises, from upstream to downstream, in the direction of gas flow in the turbomachine, a low-pressure compressor, a high-pressure compressor, a gas combustion chamber, a high-pressure turbine and a low-pressure turbine.

[0003] The rotor of the low pressure compressor is typically connected to the rotor of the low pressure turbine via a low pressure shaft. The rotor of the high pressure compressor is connected to the rotor of the high pressure turbine via a high pressure shaft.

[0004] The turbomachine further comprises a fan which is located upstream of the gas generator and which is driven in rotation about the longitudinal axis by a fan shaft. In certain types of turbomachines with a high bypass ratio, the fan shaft may be connected to the low pressure shaft via a speed reducer.

[0005] The high and low pressure shafts are guided in rotation by means of guide bearings which must be lubricated by lubricating oil to ensure their proper operation. In order to protect the connected components of the turbomachine from this lubricating liquid, the bearings and gears of the speed reducer, for example, are typically arranged in lubrication chambers. Each lubrication chamber is connected to a lubrication circuit which makes it possible to supply the lubrication chamber with lubricating oil. In addition, each lubrication chamber is delimited by sealing systems comprising seals which make it possible to limit leaks of lubricating oil outside the lubrication chambers.

[0006] Furthermore, the combustion chamber and certain hydraulic actuators of the turbomachine are supplied with fuel. For this purpose, the turbomachine typically comprises a fuel circuit which makes it possible to supply fuel to the combustion chamber and / or hydraulic actuators.

[0007] Lubrication chambers, fuel and lubrication circuits may experience liquid leaks, including fuel and / or lubricating oil leaks. Although these leaks flow at a rate considered normal, they represent potential sources of environmental pollution. Also, the fuel in the combustion chamber is typically drained to limit the risk of coking.

[0008] For this purpose, the turbomachine typically comprises at least one drainage circuit for at least one liquid, such as oil and / or fuel.

[0009] In order to limit the environmental pollution caused by this drained liquid, the turbomachine typically comprises a collector for this liquid. The collector typically comprises an enclosure defining an internal cavity intended to receive the liquid and a first inlet for this liquid into the internal cavity. The collector further comprises a first outlet for this liquid opening outside the enclosure.

[0010] There are also leaks that can result from abnormal operation of the fuel or lubrication circuits or from a rupture of the sealing systems of the lubrication enclosures, for example. In such a case, the leakage rate of the liquid is abnormal and the liquid inlet rate in the collector is much higher than the outlet rate, such that the liquid accumulates in the internal cavity. In order to collect such abnormal leaks and ensure their evacuation outside the enclosure, the collector typically comprises a liquid evacuation pipe configured to evacuate the liquid outside the enclosure when the liquid level in the enclosure is higher than a threshold level of liquid in the internal cavity. This evacuation pipe thus comprises a second liquid inlet located in the internal cavity and a second liquid outlet opening outside the enclosure of the collector.The second inlet is typically located at a height equal to the threshold liquid level in the internal cavity so that the liquid flows into the overflow drain line.

[0011] Such leaks could be such as to reduce the shutdown margin of the turbomachine or to reduce the margin of availability of the emergency regimes of the turbomachine. It is therefore important for operators to be able to detect these abnormal leaks.

[0012] In this context, in order to detect and signal an abnormal leak of liquid in the turbomachine, the collector typically comprises a device for detecting and signaling the threshold level. Such a detection and signaling device is for example connected to the discharge pipe and comprises a detection and signaling member for observing and / or signaling liquid in the discharge pipe, such as a window or an indicator light. The detection of liquid in this discharge pipe generally reflects an abnormal leak of liquid and therefore a failure of a fuel or lubrication circuit or of the seals of the lubrication enclosures.

[0013] However, such a collector is not entirely satisfactory. Indeed, the collector does not allow the origin of the leak to be identified, so it is necessary to carry out a search campaign for the leak(s) to identify their origin. It is only at the end of such a search campaign that it is possible to take charge of the leak and resolve it.

[0014] However, such a research campaign requires the installation of leak segregation and control equipment at the turbomachine, then the training of the turbomachine on the ground for several tens of minutes in order to know the leak flow rates of each circuit. Such research campaigns are long, tedious for the operators and mobilize the turbomachine which cannot be put into operation. The aircraft cannot therefore be put into service during the campaign, strongly impacting its availability.

[0015] Consequently, there is a need to provide a collector of at least one liquid for an aircraft turbomachine, which makes it possible to detect and highlight the origin of abnormal leaks in the turbomachine, in a simple and rapid manner in order to reduce the workload of operators, facilitate maintenance operations and improve the availability of the aircraft. Summary of the invention

[0016] To this end, the invention proposes a collector of at least one liquid for an aircraft turbomachine, the collector comprising:

[0017] - an enclosure,

[0018] - a first compartment located in the enclosure and having a first entrance of liquid,

[0019] - a second compartment located in the enclosure and having a second entrance of liquid, the second compartment being independent of the first compartment,

[0020] - a first liquid outlet opening outside the enclosure and fluidly connected specifically to the first and second compartments,

[0021] - a liquid discharge pipe located in the enclosure, the pipe evacuation comprising a second liquid outlet opening outside the enclosure, the evacuation pipe being fluidically connected to the first and second compartments.

[0022] The collector is notable in that the discharge conduit is configured to discharge liquid from the first compartment outside the enclosure when the liquid level in the first compartment is above a first threshold liquid level in the first compartment, and to discharge liquid from the second compartment. compartment outside the enclosure when the liquid level in the second compartment is greater than a second threshold liquid level in the second compartment, the first and second threshold levels being measured along a height of the enclosure and being different from each other.

[0023] Thus, according to the invention, the internal cavity of the collector is segregated into several compartments, each compartment having its own liquid inlet. In particular, each liquid inlet can be connected to a drainage circuit.

[0024] Also, the discharge pipe is configured to discharge the liquid from the first compartment when the height of liquid in this first compartment is greater than or equal to the first threshold level and to discharge the liquid from the second compartment when the height of liquid in this second compartment is greater than or equal to the second threshold level which is different and independent of the first threshold level.

[0025] Thus, when the liquid level in the first compartment reaches the first threshold level, it is evacuated through the evacuation pipe. This indicates an abnormal leak in the drainage circuit which is connected to the first compartment.

[0026] It is therefore possible, thanks to the configuration of the collector, in particular the segregation of the internal cavity of the collector into several compartments having a clean liquid inlet and a threshold level of clean liquid for its evacuation, to directly identify the origin of a leak by simply detecting from which compartment the evacuation of the fluid comes through the second outlet.

[0027] Thanks to the invention, it is therefore possible to do without segregation and leak control tools in the context of leak search campaigns which are long and tedious. Thanks to the invention, the availability of the turbomachine and the aircraft is improved.

[0028] The invention may comprise one or more of the following features, taken in isolation from one another or in combination with one another:

[0029] - the first and second compartments are annular and mounted around each other the other and around the same longitudinal axis,

[0030] - the first and second compartments extend longitudinally between a first end of the enclosure and a second opposite end of the enclosure,

[0031] - the discharge pipe is centered on the longitudinal axis, the first and second compartments being located around the discharge pipe,

[0032] - a detection and signaling device configured to detect and signal the first and second threshold levels,

[0033] - the detection and signaling device comprises a detection and signaling member signaling configured to detect and report the first and second threshold levels independently of each other,

[0034] - the detection and signaling member comprises first and second indicator lights lights connected respectively to the first and second compartments, the first and second indicator lights being configured to emit respectively first and second colors when the first and second threshold levels are respectively reached,

[0035] - a third compartment located in the enclosure and having a third entrance of liquid, the third compartment being fluidically connected to the discharge line, the discharge line being configured to discharge the liquid from the third compartment outside the enclosure when the liquid level in the third compartment is greater than a third threshold level of liquid in the third compartment, the first, second and third threshold levels being different and distributed along the height of the collector,

[0036] - the third compartment is annular and mounted with the first and second compartments compartments around the longitudinal axis,

[0037] - the collector is produced by additive manufacturing,

[0038] — the detection and signaling device further comprises first and second signaling columns connected to the signaling device, in particular respectively to the first and second indicator lights and respectively to the first and second compartments,

[0039] — the first and second reporting columns are connected to the first and second compartments via first and second detection passages respectively,

[0040] — the first and second detection passages extend radially relative to the longitudinal axis,

[0041] — the first and second detection passages are located at a height corresponding at a detection level substantially lower than or below the height corresponding to the respective threshold level of the first and second compartments,

[0042] — the first and second reporting columns are annular and centered on the longitudinal axis,

[0043] — the first and second signaling columns extend longitudinally in the enclosure, preferably between the first end to an axially opposite base of the enclosure,

[0044] — the first and second signaling columns are arranged radially between the discharge pipe and the first and second compartments 22, 24, 26. Brief description of the figures

[0045] Other characteristics and advantages will emerge from the following description of non-limiting embodiments of the invention with reference to the appended drawings in which:

[0046] [Fig.l] [Fig.l] is a longitudinal sectional view of an example of an aircraft turbomachine according to the invention,

[0047] [Fig.2] [Fig.2] is a longitudinal sectional view of a collector according to the invention,

[0048] [Fig.3] [Fig.3] is a cross-sectional view of the collector of [Fig.2]. Detailed description of the invention

[0049] An example of an aircraft turbomachine 1 according to the invention is shown in [Fig.l]. The turbomachine 1 is for example a dual-flow turbojet. The turbomachine 1 may have any other architecture and be in the form of a turboprop, for example.

[0050] The turbomachine 1 is modular. It comprises a plurality of modules assembled together.

[0051] The turbomachine 1 extends along a longitudinal axis X. A gas flow F flows in the turbomachine 1.

[0052] For the purposes of the present invention, the terms “upstream” and “downstream” are understood to refer to the direction of flow of the gas flow F in the turbomachine 1. The gas flow F flows in particular from left to right in FIGS. 1 and 2.

[0053] The turbomachine 1 comprises, from upstream to downstream, a fan 2 and a gas generator. The gas generator comprises, from upstream to downstream, a low-pressure compressor 3, a high-pressure compressor 4, a combustion chamber 5, a high-pressure turbine 6, a low-pressure turbine 7 and a gas exhaust nozzle 70.

[0054] Each compressor 3, 4 comprises a compressor rotor 3a, 4a and each turbine 6, 7 comprises a turbine rotor 6a, 7a. The compressor rotors 3a, 4a and turbine rotors 6a, 7a are composed of a plurality of stages each comprising a bladed wheel.

[0055] The compressor rotor 3a of the low pressure compressor 3 is connected to the turbine rotor 7a of the low pressure turbine 7 by a low pressure shaft 8. They form a low pressure body.

[0056] The compressor rotor 4a of the high-pressure compressor 4 is connected to the turbine rotor 6a of the high-pressure turbine 6 by a high-pressure shaft 9. They form a high-pressure body.

[0057] The low pressure 8 and high pressure 9 shafts are centered on the longitudinal axis X and rotatable about the longitudinal axis X. The high pressure shaft 9 is arranged coaxially around the low pressure shaft 8.

[0058] The gas flow F passes through the blower 2 and is divided into a primary air flow F1 passing through a primary vein vl and into a secondary air flow F2 passing through a secondary vein v2 surrounding the primary vein. The primary air flow F1 passes through the com low pressure 3 and high pressure 4 compressors. The compressed primary air flow Fl then passes through the combustion chamber 5 in which it is mixed with a fuel. The gases resulting from the combustion thus pass through the high pressure 6 and low pressure 7 turbines. The energy of the gases is transformed by the turbine rotor 7a of the low pressure turbine 7 into mechanical energy enabling the low pressure shaft 8 to be rotated and consequently the low pressure compressor 3.

[0059] The fan 2 comprises a mobile disc rotating around the longitudinal axis X and blades 2a carried by the disc and regularly distributed around the longitudinal axis X. In the example of [Fig.l], the fan 2 is surrounded by a fan casing 2b. The fan 2 is of the ducted type. The fan casing 2b carries a nacelle 2c and together define a fan compartment 2d.

[0060] According to another example not shown, the fan 2 is of the non-ducted type.

[0061] The fan disc 2 is driven in rotation by a fan shaft 10. In the example described, and therefore optionally, the fan shaft 10 is connected to the low pressure shaft 8 via a speed reducer 11. The speed reducer 11 is of the mechanical type. It is for example an epicyclic or planetary gear train.

[0062] The speed reducer 11 allows the fan shaft 10 to be driven at a rotational speed lower than the rotational speed of the low pressure shaft 8. This allows the bypass ratio of the turbomachine 1 to be increased.

[0063] The turbomachine 1 further comprises an inter-compressor casing 12 arranged axially between the low-pressure compressor 3 and the high-pressure compressor 4. The inter-compressor casing 12 comprises, for example, an inner shell and an outer shell which are centered on the longitudinal axis X. The inner and outer shells are, for example, connected by arms.

[0064] The turbomachine 1 may further comprise an inlet casing 13. The inlet casing 13 is arranged axially between the fan 2 and the low-pressure compressor 3. The inlet casing 13 comprises, for example, an inner shell and an outer shell which are centered on the longitudinal axis X. The inner and outer shells are, for example, connected by arms.

[0065] The turbomachine 1 may further comprise an inter-turbine casing 14. The inter-turbine casing 14 is arranged axially between the high-pressure turbine 6 and the low-pressure turbine 7.

[0066] The turbomachine 1 may further comprise an inter-vein compartment v3 located between the primary vein v1 and the secondary vein v2.

[0067] The turbomachine 1 comprises at least one bearing 15. In particular, the fan shaft 10 is guided in rotation by a first bearing 15a and advantageously a second bearing 15b. The first and second bearings 15a, 15b are arranged radially between the fan shaft blower 10 and inlet casing 13.

[0068] The low pressure shaft 8 is guided in rotation by at least a third and fourth bearing 15c, 15d. The third bearing 15c is arranged radially between the inlet casing 13 and the low pressure shaft 8. The fourth bearing 15d is arranged radially between the inter-compressor casing 12 and the low pressure shaft 8.

[0069] The high pressure shaft 9 is guided in rotation by a fifth bearing 15e. The fifth bearing 15e is for example arranged radially between the high pressure shaft 9 and the inter-turbine casing 14.

[0070] The low pressure shaft 8 can be guided in rotation downstream by a sixth bearing 15f arranged radially between a downstream end of the low pressure shaft 8 and the inter-turbine casing 14 for example.

[0071] Each bearing comprises, for example, a rolling bearing. The rolling bearing is, for example, at least one row of balls or rollers.

[0072] The bearings 15 and the possible speed reducer 11 are lubricated to ensure their proper functioning. To avoid contaminating the related components of the turbomachine 1 with oil, the bearings 15 and the speed reducer 11 are arranged in lubrication enclosures. The lubrication enclosures may also be intended for the lubrication of other elements of the turbomachine 1, such as gears, bearings.

[0073] For this purpose, the turbomachine 1 further comprises at least one lubrication enclosure, in particular a first upstream enclosure 17 in which the first, second and third bearings 15a, 15b, 15c and the speed reducer 11 are arranged, a second upstream lubrication enclosure 18 in which the fourth bearing 15d is arranged and a downstream lubrication enclosure 19 in which the fifth and sixth bearings 15e, 15f are arranged.

[0074] Depending on the configuration of the turbomachine 1, the number of bearings 15 and lubrication chambers 16 may vary.

[0075] Each lubrication enclosure 16 is annular. Each lubrication enclosure 16 is delimited externally by a fixed wall such as a casing and internally by a movable wall such as a shaft.

[0076] For example, the first upstream lubrication enclosure 17 is located in the internal shell of the inlet casing 13 and is delimited internally by the fan shaft 10. The second upstream lubrication enclosure 18 is located in the internal shell of the inter-compressor casing 12 and is delimited internally by the low pressure shaft 8 and the downstream lubrication enclosure 19 is located in the internal shell of the inter-turbine casing 14 and is delimited internally by the high pressure shaft 9.

[0077] The lubrication enclosures 17, 18, 19 are supplied by at least one lubrication circuit. The lubrication circuit comprises an oil outlet opening into the lubrication chambers 17, 18, 19 and an oil inlet connected for example to a reservoir for supplying the lubrication circuit.

[0078] The reservoir typically comprises lubricating oil.

[0079] In order to limit oil leaks outside the lubrication chambers 17, 18, 19, each lubrication chamber 17, 18, 19 comprises seals at the terminals of the lubrication chambers 17, 18, 19. The seals are each located radially between the fixed wall and the movable wall of the lubrication chambers 17, 18, 19. The seals are advantageously of the dynamic type. A dynamic type seal is understood as an assembly limiting leaks of a fluid between the fixed wall and the movable wall. Preferably, the seals are labyrinth seals.

[0080] The turbomachine 1 further comprises a circuit for supplying the combustion chamber 5 with fuel.

[0081] Despite the sealing of the lubrication chambers 17, 18, 19, leaks of lubricating oil may occur. Also, the fuel from the combustion chamber 5 must be evacuated in order to limit the risks of coking. There are also fuel or oil leaks from certain hydraulic actuators of the turbomachine 1.

[0082] In this context, the turbomachine 1 further comprises at least one drainage circuit. Advantageously, the turbomachine 1 comprises a first drainage circuit for the combustion chamber 5 for example, a second drainage circuit for the lubrication enclosures 17, 18, 19 for example and a third drainage circuit for a hydraulic actuator for example. The drainage circuits thus drain at least one liquid from the combustion chamber 5 and / or the lubrication enclosures 17, 18, 19 or any other member of the turbomachine 1, such as lubricating oil and / or fuel.

[0083] In order to limit the risk of environmental pollution, the turbomachine 1 comprises a collector 20. The collector 20 is configured to collect at least one liquid and advantageously a second liquid. The first and second liquids are for example lubricating oil and / or fuel from the turbomachine 1 drained by the drainage circuits.

[0084] Preferably, the collector 20 is produced by additive manufacturing. The collector is a single piece.

[0085] With reference to [Fig.2], the collector 20 comprises an enclosure 21, at least a first compartment 22 having a first liquid inlet 23, a second compartment 24 having a second liquid inlet 25, optionally a third compartment 26 having a third liquid inlet 27 and a first outlet 28 for this liquid.

[0086] Advantageously, the enclosure 21 is annular and has a longitudinal axis HAS.

[0087] In the remainder of the description, the terms "lower" and "upper" are understood to refer relatively to the gravity flow of the liquid in the collector 20. Thus, the term "upper" refers to an element relatively closer to the first, second and third inlets 23, 25, 27 and the term "lower" refers to an element relatively further from the first, second and third inlets 23, 25, 27. In [Fig. 2], the liquid flows by gravity from top to bottom.

[0088] In the remainder of the description, the terms “longitudinal”, “longitudinally”, “radial”, “radially” are understood relative to the longitudinal axis A of the collector 20.

[0089] The enclosure 21 has a height h as measured along a direction parallel to the direction of flow of the liquid in the enclosure 21. In the present example, this height h is measured along the longitudinal axis A.

[0090] The enclosure 21 has, for example, a circular or polygonal cross-section. The enclosure 21 advantageously extends between a first end 29, also called the upper end, and an opposite second end 30, also called the lower end. The first and second ends 29, 30 are closed.

[0091] The first end 29 is closed for example by a cover or an upper wall 29a. The second end 30 is closed by an enclosure bottom 30a.

[0092] Advantageously, the enclosure 21 further comprises a base 31 secured to the second end 30 of the enclosure 21. The base 31 is annular and centered on the longitudinal axis A. The base 31 is separated from the first, second and third compartments 22, 24, 26 by the enclosure bottom 30a.

[0093] The first, second and third compartments 22, 24, 26 are independent of each other. By "independent", it is understood that the first, second and third compartments 22, 24, 26 are not fluidically connected to each other.

[0094] The first, second and third compartments 22, 24, 26 are advantageously annular and centered on the longitudinal axis A. Preferably, the first compartment 22 is located coaxially around the second and third compartments 24, 26 and the second compartment is arranged radially between the first and third compartments 22, 26.

[0095] The first, second and third compartments 22, 24, 26 are located in the enclosure 21 and advantageously extend longitudinally in the enclosure 21 between the first and second ends 29, 30 of the enclosure 21. In particular, the first, second and third compartments 22, 24, 26 extend longitudinally between an upper end 22a, 24a, 26a and a lower end 22b, 24b, 26b.

[0096] The first, second and third compartments 22, 24, 26 further have each an internal passage 22c, 24c, 26c for circulation of the fluid. Each internal passage 22c, 24c, 26c extends longitudinally between the upper and lower ends 22a, 24a, 26a, 22b, 24b, 26b of the first, second and third compartments 22, 24, 26.

[0097] Each first, second and third compartment 22, 24, 26 comprises first, second and third liquid inlets 23, 25, 27 respectively. The first, second and third inlets 23, 25, 27 open respectively into the internal passage 22c, 24c, 26c of the first, second and third compartments 22, 24, 26.

[0098] The first, second and third inlets 23, 25, 27 are located at the first end 29 of the enclosure 21 and are for example arranged on the cover 29a. The first, second and third inlets 23, 25, 27 are thus opposite the second end 30 of the enclosure 21.

[0099] The first, second and third inlets 23, 25, 27 are for example annular. According to the example of [Fig.2], the first, second and third inlets 23, 25, 27 each have an axis A1 parallel to the longitudinal axis A of the collector 20. Each axis A1 is offset relative to the longitudinal axis A of the collector 20.

[0100] The first, second and third inlets 23, 25, 27 are connected to the drainage circuit. For example, the first inlet 23 is connected to the first drainage circuit, the second inlet 25 is connected to the second drainage circuit and the third inlet 27 is connected to the third drainage circuit. The liquid from each drainage circuit thus flows respectively into each compartment 22, 24, 26 by gravity through the first, second and third inlets 23, 25, 27.

[0101] Advantageously, each first, second and third compartment 22, 24, 26 further comprises respectively first, second and third axial liquid outlet passages 32, 33, 34, first, second and third radial liquid outlet passages 35, 36, 37 and first, second and third detection passages 38, 39, 40.

[0102] The first, second and third axial outlet passages 32, 33, 34 are connected to the first outlet 28 of the collector 20 and open respectively into the internal passage 22c, 24c, 26c of each first, second and third compartment 22, 24, 26. The first, second and third axial outlet passages 32, 33, 34 are located at the second end 30 of the enclosure 21 and are for example arranged on the lower end 22b, 24b, 26b of the first, second and third compartments 22, 24, 26.

[0103] The first, second and third axial outlet passages 32, 33, 34 are annular and each have an axis A2 parallel to the longitudinal axis A of the collector 20. The axis A2 of each first, second and third axial outlet passages 32, 33, 34 is preferably aligned respectively with the axis A1 of each first, second and third entries 23, 25, 27.

[0104] The first, second and third radial outlet passages 35, 36, 37 and the first, second and third detection passages 38, 39, 40 open respectively into the internal passage 22c, 24c, 26c of each first, second and third compartment 22, 24, 26. They each have an axis A3 perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A.

[0105] The first, second and third radial outlet passages 35, 36, 37 and the first, second and third detection passages 38, 39, 40 are axially offset from each other. Preferably, the first radial outlet passage 35 and the first detection passage 38 are relatively closer to the first end 30 of the enclosure 21 and therefore than the second and third radial outlet passages 36, 37 and the second and third detection passages 39, 40, respectively. The radial outlet and detection passages 36, 39 are located axially between the first radial outlet passage 35 and the third radial outlet passage 37.

[0106] Furthermore, the first outlet 28 opens outside the enclosure 21. The first outlet 28 is thus configured to evacuate the liquid outside the enclosure 21. The first outlet 28 is for example located at the second end 30 and is therefore opposite the first end 29. The first outlet 28 is therefore axially opposite the first, second and third inlets 23, 25, 27.

[0107] The first outlet 28 is fluidically connected to each compartment, therefore to the first, second and third compartments 22, 24, 26. Preferably, the first outlet 28 is connected to the internal passage 25c, 24c, 26c of the first, second and third compartments 22, 24, 26 via the first, second and third axial outlet passages 32, 33, 34.

[0108] According to the example of [Fig.2], the first outlet 28 has an axis A4 perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A of the collector 20.

[0109] The first outlet 28 is for example connected to an ejector (not shown) connecting the collector 20 to the nozzle 70 for example. This allows the liquid to be burned and ejected from the turbomachine 1 through the nozzle 70.

[0110] In certain cases, in particular in the event of rupture of the seals of the lubrication chambers 17, 18, 19, of the fuel supply circuit or of the lubrication circuit, the flow rate of fluid entering the manifold 20 through the first, second, and third inlets 23, 25, 27 is greater than a standard flow rate. In this case, the level of liquid in the first, second, and third compartments 22, 24, 26 increases and it is necessary to evacuate this liquid.

[0111] In this context, the collector 20 further comprises a liquid discharge pipe 41. The discharge pipe 41 is configured to discharge liquid from the first compartment 22 outside the enclosure 21 when the liquid level in the first compartment 22 is greater than a first threshold level SI of liquid in the first compartment 22, for discharging liquid from the second compartment 24 outside the enclosure 21 when the liquid level in the second compartment 24 is higher than a second threshold level S2 of liquid in the second compartment 24, and for discharging liquid from the third compartment 26 outside the enclosure 21 when the liquid level in the third compartment 26 is higher than a third threshold level S3, the first, second and third threshold levels S1, S2, S3 being measured along the height h of the enclosure 21 and being different from each other.

[0112] The first, second and third threshold levels S1, S2, S3 are each greater than a predetermined standard level for each type of leak. This predetermined standard level typically corresponds to a standard flow rate of liquid inlet into each compartment 22, 24, 26. This standard level of liquid in each compartment can be considered normal, since it does not reach the threshold level, that is to say the level of an alert threshold which would characterize an abnormal flow rate.

[0113] Preferably, the third threshold level S3 is lower than the first and second threshold levels SI, S2 and the second threshold level S2 is located between the first and third threshold levels SI, S3.

[0114] The discharge pipe 41 is fluidically connected to each of the first, second and third compartments 22, 24, 26. Advantageously, the first, second and third radial outlet passages 35, 36, 37 respectively connect the first, second and third compartments 22, 24, 26 to the discharge pipe 4L.

[0115] In particular, the first, second and third radial outlet passages 35, 36, 37 are located in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A and passing respectively through the first, second and third threshold levels S1, S2, S3. In particular, the first, second and third radial outlet passages 35, 36, 37 are located at a height equal to the height respectively of the first, second and third threshold levels S1, S2, S3 in the enclosure 21. Thus, when the liquid level in each compartment 22, 24, 26 reaches the respective threshold level S1, S2, S2, the liquid overflows into the discharge pipe 41 through the first, second and third radial outlet passages 35, 36, 37.

[0116] The discharge pipe 41 further comprises a second liquid outlet 42 opening outside the enclosure 21.

[0117] The second outlet 42 has an axis A5 perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A of the collector 20. The second outlet 42 is for example arranged in the base 31 of the collector 20. The second outlet 42 is for example radially opposite the first outlet 28.

[0118] The discharge pipe 41 is preferably annular and centered on the longitudinal axis A. The first, second and third compartments 22, 24, 26 are arranged coaxially around the discharge pipe 41. According to an exemplary embodiment, the discharge pipe 41 has an L shape in longitudinal section. The discharge pipe 41 thus comprises a first axial portion 43a extending longitudinally in the enclosure 21 and a second transverse portion 43b extending transversely in the enclosure 21. The first axial portion 36a is fluidly connected to the first, second and third radial outlet passages 35, 36, 37 and the second transverse portion 43b connects the first axial portion 46a to the second outlet 42.

[0119] Very advantageously, the collector 20 further comprises a device 44 for detecting and signaling the reaching by the liquid level in each compartment 22, 24, 26 of the first, second and third threshold levels S1, S2, S3 independently of each other. The detection and signaling device 44 is configured to detect and signal when the first, second and third threshold levels S1, S2, S3 of liquid respectively in each of the first, second and third compartments.

[0120] According to a preferred embodiment, the detection and signaling device 44 comprises a signaling member 45 configured to independently signal the first, second and third threshold levels S1, S2, S3.

[0121] The signaling member 45 comprises for example a first indicator light signaling the first threshold level S1 in the form of a first color, a second indicator light signaling the second threshold level S2 in the form of a second color which is different from the first color and a third indicator light signaling the third threshold level S3 in the form of a third color different from the first and second colors.

[0122] The detection and signaling device 40 further comprises first, second and third signaling columns 46, 47, 48 connected to the signaling member 45. In particular, the first, second and third signaling columns 46, 47, 48 are connected respectively to the first, second and third indicator lights.

[0123] The first, second and third signaling columns 46, 47, 48 are fluidically connected respectively to the first, second and third compartments 22, 24, 26. Preferably, the first, second and third signaling columns 46, 47, 48 are connected to the first, second and third compartments 22, 24, 26 via the first, second and third detection passages 38, 39, 40.

[0124] The first, second and third detection passages 38, 39, 40 are thus located at a height corresponding to a detection level SI 1, S22, S33 substantially lower or lower than the height corresponding to the threshold level SI, S2, S3 respective of each compartment 22, 24, 26. Thus, when the liquid level in each compartment compartment 22, 24, 26 reaches the respective detection level SI 1, S22, S33, the liquid overflows into the first, second and third signal columns 46, 47, 48 through the first, second and third detection passages 38, 39, 40.

[0125] The first, second and third signaling columns 46, 47, 48 are preferably annular and centered on the longitudinal axis A of the enclosure 21. They extend longitudinally in the enclosure 21 between the first end 29 to the base 31.

[0126] For example, the first, second and third signaling columns 46, 47, 48 are arranged radially between the discharge pipe 41 and the first, second and third compartments 22, 24, 26.

[0127] The operation of the collector 20 according to the invention will now be described.

[0128] Liquid leaks from the lubrication chambers 17, 18, 19, the fuel supply circuit or the lubrication circuit for example are drained through the first, second and third drainage circuits. The liquid drained from the first, second and third drainage circuits enters the collector 20 respectively through the first, second and third inlets 23, 25, 27 at a standard flow rate. The liquid then flows into each compartment 22, 24, 26 by gravity. The liquid from each compartment 22, 24, 26 is discharged from the collector 20 through the first outlet 28 at a standard outlet flow rate. The discharged liquid can be returned to the tank for example.

[0129] In some cases, the flow rate of liquid entering each compartment 22, 24, 26 may be greater than the standard flow rate and the outlet flow rate. The liquid level in each compartment 22, 24, 26 may accumulate and may reach the first, second and third detection levels SI 1, S22, S33 or even the respective first, second and third threshold levels SI, S2, S3. The liquid in each compartment 22, 24, 26 overflows into the respective first, second and third signaling columns 46, 47, 48 and the discharge pipe 41 when the respective first, second and third threshold levels SI, S2, S3 are reached.

[0130] The detection and signaling device 40 then detects the first, second and third threshold levels S1, S2, S3 independently. Depending on the indicator light, the operator is alerted to a leak and its origin.

[0131] Thanks to the invention, the origin of the leak is directly detected without a heavy and tedious search campaign operation. The availability of the turbomachine 1 and the aircraft is improved.

Claims

Claims

1. Collector (20) of at least one liquid for an aircraft turbomachine (1), the collector (20) comprising: - an enclosure (21), - a first compartment (22) located in the enclosure (21) and having a first liquid inlet (23), - a second compartment (24) located in the enclosure (21) and having a second liquid inlet (25), the second compartment (24) being independent of the first compartment (22), - a first liquid outlet (28) opening outside the enclosure (21) and fluidly connected to the first and second compartments (22, 24), - a liquid discharge pipe (41) located in the enclosure (21), the discharge pipe (41) comprising a second liquid outlet (42) opening outside the enclosure (21), the discharge pipe (41) being fluidly connected to the first and second compartments (22, 24),characterized in that the discharge pipe (41) is configured to discharge liquid from the first compartment (22) outside the enclosure (21) when the liquid level in the first compartment (22) is greater than a first threshold level (SI) of liquid in the first compartment (22), and to discharge liquid from the second compartment (24) outside the enclosure (21) when the liquid level in the second compartment (24) is greater than a second threshold level (S2) of liquid in the second compartment (24), the first and second threshold levels (SI, S2) being measured along a height (h) of the enclosure (21) and being different from each other.,

2. Collector according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the first and second compartments (22, 24) are annular and mounted around each other and around the same longitudinal axis (A).

3. Collector according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the first and second compartments (22, 24) extend longitudinally between a first end (29) of the enclosure (21) and a second end (30) opposite the enclosure (21).

4. Collector according to one of claims 2 or 3, characterized in that the discharge pipe (41) is centered on the longitudinal axis (A), the first and second compartments (22, 24) being located around the drain pipe (41).

5. Collector according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a detection and signaling device (44) configured to detect and signal the reaching by the liquid level of the first and second threshold levels (S1, S2).

6. Collector according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the detection and signaling device (44) comprises a detection and signaling member (45) configured to detect and signal the reaching by the liquid level of the first and second threshold levels (S1, S2) independently of one another.

7. Collector according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the detection and signaling member (45) comprises first and second indicator lights connected respectively to the first and second compartments (22, 24), the first and second indicator lights being configured to emit respectively first and second colors when the first and second threshold levels (S1, S2) of liquid are respectively reached.

8. Collector according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a third compartment (26) located in the enclosure (21) and having a third liquid inlet (27), the third compartment (26) being fluidically connected to the discharge pipe (41), the discharge pipe (41) being configured to discharge the liquid from the third compartment (26) outside the enclosure (21) when the liquid level in the third compartment (26) is greater than a third threshold level (S3) of liquid in the third compartment (26), the first, second and third threshold levels (S1, S2, S3) being different and distributed along the height (h) of the collector (20).

9. Collector according to the preceding claim in combination with claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the third compartment (26) is annular and mounted with the first and second compartments (22, 26) around the longitudinal axis (A).

10. Collector according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is produced by additive manufacturing.

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