Handling system for turbine shrouds

Abstract

The handling system includes an elongate member having first and second ends and a first bend therein. The elongate member is positioned in a slot in the turbine shroud. A base retention member extends from the first end portion of the elongate member to engage and retain the first end portion of the turbine shroud on the elongate member, and a sliding retainer is configured to slidably receive the elongate member. The sliding retainer is shaped and sized to slidably engage within the slot and selectively retain the second end portion of the turbine shroud in a handling position on the elongate member. A lock is coupled to the sliding retainer and is selectively movable between a locked position, in which the lock holds the sliding retainer in the handling position, and an unlocked position, in which the sliding retainer is free to slide on the elongate member.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to handling systems, and more particularly to handling systems for turbine shrouds. [Background technology]

[0002] Industrial components, such as turbine shrouds, can be very heavy. Furthermore, many industrial components have physical structures that make them difficult to safely handle and move. For example, FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of an exemplary turbine shroud 118, including a body 119 having a female opening 127 in the form of a curved slot 128 therein. The body 119 of the turbine shroud 118 is also curved along its length, making it difficult to safely handle. Each turbine shroud 118 is part of a set of turbine shrouds for a particular stage of a turbine. The curved slots 128 are used to mount the turbine shroud 118, along with a set of identical turbine shrouds, to the inner circumference of the turbine casing to form a turbine shroud stage. The turbine shroud 118 of a given stage has different circumferential, axial, and radial sizes compared to the turbine shrouds of another stage. Thus, there is a need to accommodate many different types of turbine shrouds 118 for a given turbine, and an even greater variety of turbine shrouds for a population of turbines of different sizes.

[0003] During manufacturing or on-site assembly, the turbine shroud 118 must be lifted and moved so that it can be packaged for shipping purposes or installed on the turbine. In some cases, access to the turbine shroud is limited, for example, if it is positioned close to the side of a holding pocket within a shipping container. Typically, lifting is accomplished using some type of handling system to connect to the tip shroud 118 and some type of lifting equipment, such as a crane, forklift, or robotic arm, to lift the shroud using the handling system. FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of a conventional handling system 130 used for the turbine shroud 118 ( FIG. 1 ). The handling system 130 and similar systems use a basic structure to grasp the turbine shroud 118. For example, the handling system 130 includes a pair of opposing arms 132, 134 that are spatially adjustable using a linear actuator 136, such as a manual worm gear, to selectively grasp the turbine shroud 118 ( FIG. 1 ). The handling system 130 relies on sufficient force to be applied by the linear actuator 136. Furthermore, while the simple design of the handling system 130 allows it to handle virtually any turbine shroud 118, regardless of the shroud's size or shape, it is not ideal for every shroud. Thus, the handling system 130 can complicate the handling process by requiring multiple gripping, moving, releasing, and re-gripping steps. For example, a conventional handling system 130 must grip, move, release, and re-grrip the tip shroud 118 three times to install the tip shroud 118 on the turbine. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Korean Patent No. 10-1828182 Summary of the Invention

[0005] All aspects, examples, and features described below can be combined in any technically possible manner.

[0006] An aspect of the present disclosure provides a handling system for a turbine shroud having a slot therein, the handling system including: an elongate member including a first end and a second end, the elongate member including a first bend therein and configured to be positioned in the slot of the turbine shroud; a base retaining member extending from the first end of the elongate member to engage and retain the first end portion of the turbine shroud on the elongate member; a sliding retainer including a body having an opening configured to slidably receive the elongate member, the body of the sliding retainer configured to slidably engage the slot and selectively retain the second end portion of the turbine shroud in a handling position on the elongate member; and a lock coupled to the sliding retainer, the lock selectively movable between a locked position in which the lock holds the sliding retainer in the handling position and an unlocked position in which the sliding retainer is free to slide on the elongate member.

[0007] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes any of the aforementioned aspects, wherein the lock includes a pin selectively movable between a locked position in which the pin extends through the first opening in the elongate member and holds the sliding retainer in the handling position, and an unlocked position in which the pin retracts from the first opening in the elongate member and allows the sliding retainer to slide freely on the elongate member.

[0008] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes any of the above aspects, wherein in the unlocked position, the pin is positioned in a second opening in the elongate member spaced from the first opening.

[0009] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes any of the aforementioned aspects, wherein the pin includes a spring-loaded pin coupled to the sliding retainer.

[0010] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes any of the aforementioned aspects, wherein the first bend of the elongated member is configured to position the base retention member to engage an inner surface of the slot and to engage and retain the first end portion of the turbine shroud to the elongated member.

[0011] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes any of the aforementioned aspects, wherein the sliding retainer includes a first end, a second end, a first side, and a second side, and the first side of the sliding retainer extends farther from the first end of the sliding retainer than the second side of the sliding retainer, and the first side of the sliding retainer engages the same inner surface of the slot in the turbine shroud as the first bend of the elongated member.

[0012] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes any of the above aspects, wherein the second side of the sliding retainer includes an angled surface that extends less than 90 degrees from the elongate member.

[0013] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes any of the aforementioned aspects, wherein the body of the sliding retainer has a first portion having a shape and size configured to slidably engage the slot, and a second portion larger than the first portion and configured to abut the second end portion of the turbine shroud to selectively retain the second end portion of the turbine shroud in a handling position on the elongate member.

[0014] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes any of the aspects described above, further including a spacing member coupled to the elongate member adjacent to the base retention member.

[0015] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes any of the above aspects, further comprising a handle coupled to the second end of the elongate member.

[0016] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes any of the above aspects, wherein the base retaining member extending from the first end of the elongate member includes a second bend in the elongate member.

[0017] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes any of the aforementioned aspects, wherein the elongate member includes a plurality of elongate members, each elongate member having a different length and a different angle at its respective first bend compared to the others of the plurality of elongate members to accommodate a selected turbine shroud of the plurality of different turbine shrouds, and wherein the sliding retainer includes a plurality of sliding retainers, each sliding retainer having at least one of a different shape and a different size compared to the others of the plurality of sliding retainers to accommodate a slot in a turbine shroud of a selected turbine shroud of the plurality of different turbine shrouds.

[0018] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes any of the above aspects, wherein the slot is a curved slot.

[0019] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes a handling system for a first set of turbine shrouds having a first dimension and at least one second set of turbine shrouds having a second dimension different from the first set, the turbine shrouds of both sets having curved slots therein, the handling system including, for each of the first and second sets, an elongated member including a first end and a second end, the elongated member including a first bend therein, the elongated member and the first bend configured to be positioned in the curved slots of the turbine shrouds of the respective set, and a handling mechanism for engaging and holding the first end portions of the turbine shrouds of the respective set to the elongated member. the sliding retainer includes a base retaining member extending from a first end of the elongated member; a sliding retainer including a body having an opening configured to slidably receive the elongated member for each set of turbine shrouds, the sliding retainer body being configured to slidably engage with the curved slots of the turbine shrouds of each set and selectively hold the second end portions of the turbine shrouds of each set in a handling position on the elongated member; and a lock coupled to the sliding retainer, the lock being selectively movable between a locked position in which the lock holds the sliding retainer in the handling position and an unlocked position in which the sliding retainer is free to slide on the elongated member.

[0020] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes any of the aforementioned aspects, wherein the lock includes a pin selectively movable between a locked position in which the pin extends through the first opening in the elongate member and holds the sliding retainer in the handling position, and an unlocked position in which the pin retracts from the first opening in the elongate member and allows the sliding retainer to slide freely on the elongate member.

[0021] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes any of the above aspects, wherein in the unlocked position, the pin is positioned in a second opening in the elongate member spaced from the first opening.

[0022] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes any of the aforementioned aspects, wherein the pin includes a spring-loaded pin coupled to the sliding retainer.

[0023] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes any of the aforementioned aspects, wherein the first bends of the elongated members are configured to position the base retention member to engage inner surfaces of the curved slots of the turbine shrouds of the respective set and to engage and retain first end portions of the turbine shrouds of the respective set to the elongated member.

[0024] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes any of the aforementioned aspects, wherein the sliding retainer includes a first end, a second end, a first side, and a second side, and the first side of the sliding retainer extends farther from the first end of the sliding retainer than the second side of the sliding retainer, and the first side of the sliding retainer engages with the same inner surface of the curved slot of the turbine shroud as the first bend of the elongated member.

[0025] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes any of the aforementioned aspects, wherein the body of the sliding retainer has a first portion having a shape and size configured to slidably engage the curved slots in the turbine shrouds of the respective set of turbine shrouds, and a second portion larger than the first portion and configured to abut the second end portions of the turbine shrouds of the respective set of turbine shrouds to selectively retain the second end portions of the turbine shrouds of the respective set of turbine shrouds in a handling position on the elongate member.

[0026] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes a method for gripping a turbine shroud having a curved slot therein, the method including the steps of positioning an elongated member in the curved slot of the turbine shroud, the elongated member including a first end, a second end, a first bend between the first end and the second end, and a base retention member extending from the first end and engaging and retaining the first end portion of the turbine shroud to the elongated member; sliding a sliding retainer along the elongated member and into the curved slot of the second end portion of the turbine shroud to a handling position on the elongated member, the sliding retainer configured to abut the second end portion of the turbine shroud at the handling position; and locking the sliding retainer to a locked position wherein the sliding retainer is locked relative to the elongated member at the handling position and wherein the sliding retainer grips and retains the turbine shroud on the elongated member.

[0027] Two or more aspects described in this disclosure, including those described in this Summary section, may be combined to form an embodiment not specifically described herein.

[0028] The details of one or more embodiments are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, objects, and advantages will become apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims.

[0029] These and other features of the present disclosure will be more readily understood from the following detailed description of the various aspects of the disclosure, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings which illustrate various embodiments of the present disclosure. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0030] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view of a turbine shroud according to the prior art; [Figure 2] 1 is a perspective view of a handling system according to the prior art; [Figure 3] 1 is a schematic diagram of a turbine system. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the gas turbine of FIG. 3. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is a front view of a turbine shroud handling system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] 1 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a handling system operably coupled to an exemplary turbine shroud in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7A] 1A-1D are perspective views of exemplary elongate members for different handling systems according to embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 7B] 1A-1D are perspective views of exemplary elongate members for different handling systems according to embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 8A] 1A-1C are perspective views of exemplary sliding retainers for different handling systems according to embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 8B] 1A-1C are perspective views of exemplary sliding retainers for different handling systems according to embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] 10A-10C are cross-sectional views of a sliding retainer on an elongate member of a handling system in a locked position and a handling position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10A] FIG. 10 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a sliding retainer locked in a handling position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10B] FIG. 10 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a sliding retainer unlocked in a handling position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10C] FIG. 10 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a sliding retainer in a retracted position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] 1 is a cross-sectional view of a handling system in an initial position for coupling to a turbine shroud according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of positioning a handling system within a slot in a turbine shroud according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13A] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary handling system for a particular set of turbine shrouds, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13B] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary handling system for a particular set of turbine shrouds, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13C] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary handling system for a particular set of turbine shrouds, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13D] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary handling system for a particular set of turbine shrouds, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14A] 13A-13D are views of an exemplary handling system for a set of turbine shrouds according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14B] 13A-13D are views of an exemplary handling system for a set of turbine shrouds according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14C] 13A-13D are views of an exemplary handling system for a set of turbine shrouds according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14D] 13A-13D are views of an exemplary handling system for a set of turbine shrouds according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15A] 13A-13D and 14A-14D are views of an exemplary handling system for another set of turbine shrouds according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15B] 13A-13D and 14A-14D are views of an exemplary handling system for another set of turbine shrouds according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15C] 13A-13D and 14A-14D are views of an exemplary handling system for another set of turbine shrouds according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15D] 13A-13D and 14A-14D are views of an exemplary handling system for another set of turbine shrouds according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0031] It should be noted that the drawings of the present disclosure are not necessarily to scale. The drawings are intended to depict only typical aspects of the disclosure and therefore should not be considered limiting of the scope of the disclosure. In the drawings, like numbers represent like elements between the drawings.

[0032] As an initial matter, in order to clearly explain the present disclosure, it becomes necessary to select specific terminology when referring to and describing relevant machine components within an exemplary turbomachinery application. In doing so, common industry terminology will be used and adopted, whenever possible, in a manner consistent with its accepted meaning. Unless otherwise noted, such terminology should be given a broad interpretation consistent with the context of this application and the appended claims. Those skilled in the art will understand that in many cases, a particular component may be referred to using several different or overlapping terms. What may be described herein as being a single part may include, and be referred to in other contexts as consisting of multiple components. Alternatively, what may be described herein as comprising multiple components may be referred to elsewhere as a single part.

[0033] Additionally, several descriptive terms may be used regularly herein, and it will prove useful to define these terms at the beginning of this section. It is often necessary to describe components at different radial locations relative to a central axis. The term "axial" refers to movement or position parallel to an axis, e.g., the axis of a turbomachine. The term "radial" refers to movement or position perpendicular to an axis, e.g., the axis of a turbomachine. In such cases, if a first component is located closer to the axis than a second component, the first component may be referred to herein as being "radially inward" or "inward" of the second component. Conversely, if a first component is located farther from the axis than the second component, the first component may be referred to herein as being "radially outward" or "outward" of the second component. Finally, the term "circumferential" refers to movement or position around an axis, e.g., the circumferential inner surface of a casing extending around the axis of a turbomachine. As noted above, it will be understood that such terms may be applied with respect to the axis of a turbomachine.

[0034] Additionally, as noted below, certain descriptive terms may be used herein in a conventional manner: the terms "first," "second," and "third" may be used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another, and are not intended to denote the location or importance of the individual components.

[0035] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "comprise" and / or "comprising," as used herein, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or sets thereof. "Optional" or "optionally" means that the subsequently stated feature or element may or may not be present, and that the description includes the case where the feature is present or absent.

[0036] When an element or layer is referred to as "on," "engaged," "disengaged," "connected," or "coupled," or "mounted" to another element or layer, the element or layer may be directly on, engaged, connected, or coupled to the other element or layer, or there may be intervening elements or layers. In contrast, when an element is referred to as "directly on," "directly engaged," "directly connected," or "directly coupled" to another element or layer, there are no intervening elements or layers. Other terms used to describe relationships between elements should be interpreted similarly (e.g., "between" versus "directly between," "adjacent to" versus "directly adjacent to," etc.). As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. The verb forms of "couple" and "mount" may be used interchangeably herein.

[0037] As described above, the present disclosure provides a handling system for a turbine shroud having a slot therein, the slot being capable of being curved. The handling system may include an elongate member having first and second ends and a first bend therein. The elongate member is configured to be positioned in the slot of the turbine shroud. A base retention member extends from the first end portion of the elongate member to engage and retain the first end portion of the turbine shroud on the elongate member, and a sliding retainer is configured to slidably receive the elongate member. The sliding retainer has a shape and size configured to slidably engage within the slot and selectively retain the second end portion of the turbine shroud in a handling position on the elongate member. A lock is coupled to the sliding retainer and is selectively movable between a locked position in which the lock holds the sliding retainer in the handling position and an unlocked position in which the sliding retainer is free to slide on the elongate member. The handling system is customizable to fit any of a variety of different turbine shroud sizes, addressing both factory and field handling requirements. The system can be ergonomically and safely installed despite limited access to the turbine shroud, for example, caused by interference-fit shipping containers. The system also reduces on-site cycle time by allowing turbine shrouds to be installed in the factory, thus reducing on-site handling and potential damage to key components.

[0038] Referring to FIG. 3 , a schematic diagram of a turbine system 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention is shown. The turbine system 100 may be a conventional gas turbine system, as shown in FIG. 3 . However, it is understood that the turbine system 100 may be configured as any conventional turbine system (e.g., a steam turbine system) configured to generate power. Therefore, for clarity, a brief description of the turbine system 100 will be provided. As shown in FIG. 3 , the turbine system 100 may include a compressor 102, a combustor 104 fluidly coupled to the compressor 102, and a turbine 106 fluidly coupled to the combustor 104 to receive combustion products from the combustor 104. The turbine 106 may also be coupled to the compressor 102 via a shaft 108. The shaft 108 may also be coupled to a generator 110 to generate electricity during operation of the turbine system 100.

[0039] During operation of the turbine system 100, as shown in FIG. 3 , the compressor 102 may take in air and compress the intake air, which is then transferred to the combustor 104. Once in the combustor 104, the compressed air may be mixed with combustion products (e.g., fuel) and ignited. Once ignited, the compressed air-combustion product mixture is converted into hot, pressurized exhaust gases (hot gases) that flow through the turbine 106. The hot gases flow through the turbine 106 and, specifically, pass through a plurality of rotating blades 112 (e.g., stages of blades) coupled to a shaft 108, which rotates the blades 112 and the shaft 108 of the turbine system 100. Furthermore, the hot gases pass through a plurality of stator nozzles 114 (e.g., stages of stator nozzles) coupled to a casing 116 of the turbine 106, where each stage of stator nozzles 114 may correspond to and be positioned between each of the plurality of blades 112. The stator nozzles 114 may direct the hot gases through the turbine 106, causing them to sequentially pass through and subsequently rotate each stage of the plurality of blades 112 on the turbine 106 and shaft 108. As the shaft 108 of the turbine system 100 rotates, the compressor 102 and turbine 106 are driven, and the generator 110 may generate power (e.g., electrical current).

[0040] Referring to Figure 4, a cross-sectional view of a portion of the turbine 106 of Figure 3 is shown in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Figure 4, the turbine 106 may also include a plurality of turbine shrouds or turbine shroud blocks 118 (hereinafter "turbine shrouds 118") coupled to the casing 116 and arranged circumferentially around an inner surface 120 of the casing 116. That is, as shown in Figure 4, the plurality of turbine shrouds 118 may be coupled to the inner surface 120 of the casing 116 and positioned adjacent to the tips 122 of the blades 112. Furthermore, the plurality of turbine shrouds 118 may be positioned between various stages of the stator nozzles 114 and are also coupled to the casing 116 of the turbine 106. The plurality of turbine shrouds 118 may be circumferentially coupled to and positioned within the casing 116 to provide an outer boundary for the hot gases flowing through the turbine 106. That is, the multiple turbine shrouds 118 may be positioned within the casing 116 to substantially prevent hot gases from entering the region 124, where the hot gases may not flow through the turbine 106 and contact the various stages of blades 112 and / or stator nozzles 114. If the hot gases of the turbine 106 enter the region 124, the hot gases may not be able to drive the various stages of blades 112 of the turbine 106, ultimately reducing the efficiency and / or power output generated within the turbine system 100 ( FIG. 3 ). Each stage of the turbine system 100 may include multiple turbine shrouds 118 or a set of turbine shrouds 118 sized and shaped for the respective stage location. For example, any number of turbine shrouds 118 may be used in a given set, depending on the circumferential extent of each turbine shroud 118 and the size of a given stage. Thus, the turbine system 100 may have a first set of turbine shrouds 118 having a first dimension, i.e., for a given stage, and at least one second set of turbine shrouds 118 having a second dimension different from the first set, i.e., for one or more other stages.The handling system 150 may provide different sized parts to handle different sized turbine shrouds 118 for a given turbine system 100, or even for different populations of turbine systems 100, as will be described below.

[0041] As shown in FIG. 4 , the inner surface 120 of the casing 116 may include a connection element 126 configured to couple the plurality of turbine shrouds 118 of a given set of shrouds to the casing 116 of the turbine 106. More specifically, the casing 116 may include a male connection element 126 configured to engage with a female opening 127 defined in the curved body 119 of each of the plurality of turbine shrouds 118 to couple the plurality of turbine shrouds 118 to the casing 116. As shown in FIG. 4 , the connection element 126 may be positioned to substantially coincide with the blades 112 or may be positioned between various stages of the stator nozzles 114 of the turbine 106. The connection element 126 may be a continuous component positioned circumferentially around the casing 116 such that each of the plurality of turbine shrouds 118 may be slidably engaged or coupled to the connection element 126 and then positioned circumferentially around the casing 116.

[0042] As shown in FIG. 1 , the turbine shroud 118 can have a curved body 119 with a slot 128 formed therein, for example, using wire EDM or additive manufacturing. In certain embodiments, the slot 128 can be curved. That is, the female opening 127 can take the form of a curved slot 128 that is curved along its length to be generally parallel to the curvature of the curved body 119 of the turbine shroud 118. The slot 128 (hereinafter, the “curved slot 128”) is also referred to as a hook. For illustrative purposes, the male connection component 126 and the curved slot 128 are depicted as T-shaped, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 4 . While depicted as a male T-shaped connection component 126 for mating with the female T-shaped curved slot 128, the multiple turbine shrouds 118 can include a variety of alternative shapes for coupling the multiple turbine shrouds 118 to the casing 116. For example, the plurality of turbine shrouds 118 may include female cruciform openings 127 (not shown, i.e., cruciform curved slots 128), and the connection component 126 of the casing 116 may include a male cruciform connector configured to substantially receive the female connector portion of the turbine shrouds 118 to couple the plurality of turbine shrouds 118 to the casing 116 of the turbine 106. Any of a variety of different shapes of mating connection components 126 and curved slots 128 shaped to receive and / or retain the turbine shrouds 118 therein may be used.

[0043] The turbine shroud 118 generally has a first end portion 172 and a second, opposing end portion 174. The turbine shroud 118 can vary in several ways depending on the given turbine system 100 and the stage of the turbine 106 in which it is used. For example, the overall size (radial, axial, and / or circumferential extent) and weight of each turbine shroud 118 can vary to accommodate a given stage and / or a given turbine 106. Also, the curvature of the body 119 and the curvature of the curved slots 128 can vary to accommodate a given stage and / or a given turbine system. Furthermore, as previously mentioned, the shape and / or size of the curved slots 128 can vary. As further described, FIGS. 6, 13A-13D, 14A-14D, and 15A-15D illustrate turbine shrouds 118 of different dimensions.

[0044] 5 illustrates a front view of a handling system 150 for a turbine shroud 118 having a curved slot 128 (FIG. 1) spaced apart from the turbine shroud 118, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 illustrates a handling system 150 operably coupled to a handling location on an exemplary turbine shroud 118, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] The handling system 150 includes an elongate member 152 having a first end 154 and a second end 156. FIGS. 7A-7B show perspective views of two example elongate members 152A, 152B having different configurations. The elongate member 152 also includes a first bend 158 therein, i.e., between the first end 154 and the second end 156. As shown in FIG. 6, the elongate member 152 is configured to be positioned in a curved slot 128 of the turbine shroud 118. To this end, the first bend 158 may have an angle α. The bend 158 divides the elongate member 152 into a first upper portion 162 and a second lower portion 160. As described below, the length L1 and angle α of the lower portion 160 can be configured to allow the elongate member 152 to pass through the curved slot 128 of turbine shrouds 118 of different sizes and shapes. The length L1 and angle α of the lower portion 160 may also be configured to allow the elongated member 152 of the handling system 150 to securely grasp the turbine shroud 118 in its handling position.

[0046] The handling system 150 also includes a base retention member 170 extending from the first end 154 of the elongated member 152 to engage and retain a first end portion 172 of the turbine shroud 118 on the elongated member 152. As described above, the turbine shroud 118 also has a second end portion 174 at an opposite end of the turbine shroud 118. The base retention member 170 extends from the elongated member 152 by an angle β. The base retention member 170 may include any element capable of engaging the first end portion 172 of the turbine shroud 118. More specifically, the base retention member 170 allows the turbine shroud 118 to be lifted with the elongated member 152, i.e., prevents the turbine shroud 118 from further moving away from or away from the elongated member 152. In certain embodiments, the base retention member 170 may be a separate element coupled to the elongated member 152, for example, by welding, fasteners, or the like. However, in certain embodiments, the base retention member 170 includes a second bend 176 in the elongated member 152, creating the base retention member 170 from a third portion 178 of the elongated member 152. Thus, the base retention member 170 may be integral with the remainder of the elongated member 152 and is bent at a non-linear angle β relative to the elongated member 152 so as to extend from the remainder of the elongated member 152. In this embodiment, the second bend 176 has the angle β, i.e., is between the base retention member 170 and (the lower portion 160 of) the elongated member 152. Thus, the base retention member 170 extends from the elongated member 152 by the angle β. As described below, the base retention member 170 has a length L2 sized to allow the base retention member 170 to move unimpeded through the curved slot 128 but to engage the end portion 172 of the turbine shroud 118 and handle the shroud.

[0047] The handling system 150 may also optionally include a spacing member 180 coupled to the elongated member 152 adjacent to the base retention member 170. The spacing member 180 may be selectively shaped and sized to ensure proper positioning of the base retention member 170 and the remainder of the elongated member 152 relative to the turbine shroud 118 in the handling position ( FIG. 6 ). The spacing member 180 is coupled to the lower portion 160 of the elongated member 152, although other locations are possible, such as on the base retention member 170. The spacing member 180 may be attached using any form of connection, for example, removable fasteners such as threaded fasteners (bolts, screws) or rivets, or permanent fasteners such as welding, or a combination thereof. The spacing member 180 may be replaced during the life of the handling system 150 to continue to ensure proper positioning of the base retention member 170 and the elongated member 152 relative to the turbine shroud 118 despite wear on the handling system 150. For example, wear of elongate member 152, base retaining member 170, and / or spacing member 180 may occur during use. Spacing member 180 may be made of the same material as elongate member 152 and / or base retaining member 170, or may alternatively comprise a softer, wear-resistant material such as plastic.

[0048] The handling system 150 includes a sliding retainer 190 including a body 192 having an opening 194 configured to slidably receive the elongated member 152. FIGS. 8A-8B show perspective views of the sliding retainer 190, and FIG. 9 shows an enlarged cross-sectional view of the sliding retainer 190 in a handling position, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As described below, the body 192 of the sliding retainer 190 is configured to slidably engage the curved slot 128 and selectively retain the second end portion 174 of the turbine shroud 118 in a handling position on the elongated member 152. Furthermore, the sliding retainer 190 and its body 192 are configured (e.g., shaped and sized) to position the sliding retainer 190 relative to the curved slot 128, to position the elongated member 152 relative to the curved slot 128, and / or to ensure a secure grip of the turbine shroud 118 in the handling position. Handling positions are shown, for example, in Figures 6 and 9. Opening 194 can have a cross-section that has a shape and size that allows elongate member 152, and more specifically, upper portion 162 thereof, to slide freely within opening 194. That is, sliding retainer 190 can slide along elongate member 152. Opening 194 need not have the exact same cross-sectional shape as elongate member 152.

[0049] 8A-8B and 9, sliding retainer 190 also includes a first top end 196, a second bottom end 198, a first side surface 200, and a second side surface 202. Sliding retainer 190 may also include a third side surface 201 and a fourth side surface 203. The first and second side surfaces 200, 202 need not extend the same distance from each top end 196. For example, in FIGS. 8A-8B and 9, first side surface 200 of sliding retainer 190 may extend farther from top end 196 of sliding retainer 190 (vertically as shown) than second side surface 202 of sliding retainer 190 extends from top end 196. In other embodiments, side surfaces 200, 202 may extend the same distance from top end 196. As will be further explained and shown in FIGS. 6 and 9, a first side 200 of the sliding retainer 190 engages an inner surface 204 of the curved slot 128 in the turbine shroud 118 that is the same as the first bend 158 of the elongate member 152 .

[0050] In certain embodiments, the sliding retainer 190 can have a cross-sectional shape configured to mate with the curved slots 128 at the second end portion 174 of the turbine shroud 118. However, a mating configuration is not necessary in all cases, as long as the sliding retainer 190 properly positions itself relative to the curved slots 128, positions the elongated member 152 relative to the curved slots 128, and / or ensures a secure grip of the turbine shroud 118. (See, e.g., FIG. 13C for an embodiment in which the sliding retainer 190 does not have a cross-section that matches the curved slots 128 at the second end portion 174 of the turbine shroud 118.)

[0051] 8A-8B , the sliding retainer 190 can also optionally include various positioning structures to position the sliding retainer 190 relative to the curved slot 128, to position the elongated member 152 relative to the curved slot 128, and / or to ensure a secure grip of the turbine shroud 118. In certain embodiments, for example, the second side 202 of the sliding retainer 190 can also optionally include an angled surface 206 that extends other than 90 degrees from the elongated member 152 (shown in FIG. 9 ). The angled surface 206 can help guide the sliding retainer 190 into the curved slot 128. The angled surface 206 can also position the first side 200 of the sliding retainer 190 relative to the inner surface 204 of the curved slot 128, which can also position the elongated member 152 at a desired position within the curved slot 128, i.e., at a desired position for secure grip of the turbine shroud 118. In certain embodiments, the angle γ of the inclined surface 206 relative to the elongated member 152 may be, for example, in the range of 15° to 45°. In another embodiment, the angle γ of the inclined surface 206 relative to the elongated member 152 may be, for example, approximately 30°. In another example, referring to FIG. 8B , the sliding retainer 190 can optionally include an extension 208 from the second side 202 configured to position the sliding retainer 190 within the curved slot 128, for example, by engaging an inner surface of the curved slot opposite the inner surface 204. More specifically, the extension 208 can position the first side 200 of the sliding retainer 190 against the inner surface 204 of the curved slot 128, which in turn can position the elongated member 152 at a desired position within the curved slot 128, i.e., a desired position for securely gripping the turbine shroud 118 in a handling position. The extension 208 may also optionally include an additional protrusion 244 that abuts the second end portion 174 of the turbine shroud 118 .It is emphasized that while specific examples of shapes and positioning structures of sliding retainer 190 are described herein (e.g., in Figures 8A-8B), sliding retainer 190 can have multiple other configurations and / or shapes depending on the shape of curved slot 128, e.g., its cross-sectional shape, which can vary widely depending on the configuration of connecting component 126 (Figure 4).

[0052] The handling system 150 also includes a lock 220 coupled to the sliding retainer 190. The lock 220 is shown in FIGS. 6 and 9, and FIGS. 10A-10C show enlarged cross-sectional views of the lock 220 on the sliding retainer 190. The lock 220 is coupled to the sliding retainer 190 and is selectively movable between a first locked position, as shown in FIG. 10A, in which the lock holds the sliding retainer 190 in the handling position (FIGS. 6 and 9), and an unlocked position, as shown in FIG. 10B, in which the sliding retainer 190 is free to slide on the elongate member 152 (see the vertical arrows in FIGS. 10B-10C). FIG. 10C shows the lock 220 in an optional second locked position with the sliding retainer 190 in a retracted (and stored) position, where the sliding retainer 190 is retracted from the curved slot 128 in the turbine shroud 118 and locked in the stored position.

[0053] Lock 220 may include any mechanism capable of selectively securely locking sliding retainer 190 from movement along elongate member 152. Lock 220 may be coupled to sliding retainer 190 in any manner, such as by welding, threaded fasteners, etc. In certain embodiments, lock 220 may include an element such as a threaded element (e.g., a screw or bolt), a ratchet system, a cotter pin, or another member capable of selectively positioning sliding retainer 190 relative to elongate member 152. In certain embodiments, lock 220 includes a member configured to extend through a first opening 222 in elongate member 152 and a second opening 224 in body 192 of sliding retainer 190. In certain embodiments, as shown in Figures 5, 6, and 10A-10C, the lock 220 can include a pin 230 that is selectively movable between a first locked position in Figure 10A in which the pin 230 extends through the first opening 222 in the elongate member 152 and holds the sliding retainer 190 in the handling position (Figure 6), and an unlocked position in Figure 10B in which the pin 230 retracts (moves away from) the first opening 222 in the elongate member 152 and allows the sliding retainer 190 to slide freely on the elongate member 152.

[0054] In other embodiments, lock 220, and more specifically pin 230, may include a spring-loaded pin system 232 coupled to sliding retainer 190. In this case, plunger 234 of spring-loaded pin system 232 may be moved to retract its pin 236 from first opening 222 in elongate member 152 against the bias of its spring 238, as shown in FIG. 10B, allowing sliding retainer 190 to slide freely on elongate member 152. Alternatively, plunger 234 of spring-loaded pin system 232 may be released to allow pin 236 of spring-loaded pin system 232 to be forced into first opening 222 of elongate member 152 by the bias of spring 238, as shown in FIG. 10A , thereby preventing sliding retainer 190 from sliding along elongate member 152 and holding sliding retainer 190 in a handling position against second end portion 174 of turbine shroud 118. Spring-loaded pin system 232 may be any now known or later developed spring-loaded pin, such as those available from McMaster-Carr Company of Elmhurst, Illinois. Regardless of the form of lock 220, as will be further described, openings 222 and 224 position sliding retainer 190 in a handling position ( FIG. 6 ) to hold turbine shroud 118 from moving relative to elongate member 152.

[0055] Although the opening 224 of the sliding retainer 190 is shown on one side of the bifurcated member 210 in most views of the sliding retainer 190 (FIG. 8A), the sliding retainer 190 may use only a single member to provide the opening 224, as shown in FIG. 8B.

[0056] In certain embodiments, when not in the handling position shown in FIGS. 6, 9, and 10A, the sliding retainer 190 can slide freely on the top 162 of the elongate member 152. In this case, the sliding retainer 190 may be manually held in a desired position on the elongate member 152 by a user. In other embodiments, the elongate member 152 may include a third opening 246 for locking the sliding retainer 190 in a second, locked, retracted, and stored position (hereinafter, the "stored position"). FIG. 10C shows the pins 230, 236 in a locked position within the third opening 246 with the sliding retainer 190 in the stored position. In the stored position, the sliding retainer 190 moves upward along the top 162 of the elongate member 152, away from the curved slot 128 in the turbine shroud 118, and is locked in place. In this optional embodiment, the elongate member 152 may include a third opening 246 that is sufficiently spaced from the first opening 222 such that when the pins 230, 236 extend from the lock 220 into the third opening 246, the sliding retainer 190 is positioned to be fully removed from the turbine shroud 118 and its curved slot 128. In FIG. 10C , the pins 230, 236 are positioned in the opening 246 of the elongate member 152 that is spaced from the first opening 222 with the sliding retainer 190 in the retracted position. Again, without the third opening 246, the sliding retainer 190 would be free to slide on the elongate member 152 with the pins 230, 236 held in a retracted position or moving along the surface of the elongate member 152.

[0057] In certain embodiments, only the body 192 of the sliding retainer 190 can have a sufficiently tight mating positioning with the curved slot 128 of the turbine shroud 118 in the handling position to securely hold (grasp) the second end portion 174 of the turbine shroud 118 and maintain it in a handling position on the elongated member 152, as shown in FIG. 6 , where the lock 220 also helps maintain the sliding retainer 190 in the handling position. In other embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 8A-8B and 9 , the body 192 of the sliding retainer 190 can have a first portion 240 having a shape and size configured to slidably engage the curved slot 128 and a second portion 242 that is larger than the first portion 240 and configured to abut the second end portion 174 of the turbine shroud 118 to selectively maintain the second end portion 174 of the turbine shroud 118 in a handling position on the elongated member 152. Here, lock 220 maintains sliding retainer 190 in the handling position. First portion 240 can have any cross-sectional shape, such as rectangular, T-shaped, cross-shaped, etc., configured to fit into curved slot 128 in second end portion 174 of turbine shroud 118. In this regard, first portion 240 need not have the same cross-sectional shape as curved slot 128, although having the same cross-sectional shape can be advantageous for proper alignment. Second portion 242 may have any shape capable of stopping further entry of sliding retainer 190 into curved slot 128 adjacent second end portion 174. In the illustrated non-limiting example, second portion 242 includes a protrusion 244 that abuts second end portion 174. As shown in Figure 8A, protrusions 244 may extend from sides 201, 203 of body 192 (parallel to sides 200, 202 of body 192), or as shown in Figure 9, protrusions 244 may extend from sides 200, 202 of body 192, or as shown in Figure 8C, protrusions 244 may protrude from all four sides 200, 201, 202, 203 of body 192. Any positioning of second portion 242 that prevents sliding retainer 190 from passing through the desired handling position shown in Figures 6 and 9 and further into curved slot 128 is possible.

[0058] 5 and 6 , the handling system 150 may also include a handle 250 coupled to the second end 156 of the elongate member 152. The handle 250 may take any form that can be grasped by a user and / or lifting equipment, such as a crane hook, a forklift, a robotic arm, or the like. In the illustrated, non-limiting example, the handle 250 may include a pair of opposing bar handles 252, 254 for manual grasping and a lifting element 256, such as a ring or other structure, for coupling to desired lifting equipment, such as an overhead crane. In some cases, the turbine shroud 118 has a sufficiently low weight, e.g., less than 22 kilograms (50 pounds), so that a human user can safely handle the turbine shroud 118 with the handling system 150 attached. In this case, the user can use the bar handles 252, 254 to handle the turbine shroud 118. As used herein, "handle" refers to any movement, such as lifting, turning, rotating, moving linearly, etc. In other cases, the turbine shroud 118 may have a weight, for example, greater than 50 pounds (22 kilograms), for which lifting equipment is desirable or required. In this case, the lifting equipment can be coupled to the lifting elements 256 for handling the turbine shroud 118 in any manner, for example, by hooking onto a ring, by a robotic gripping arm, among many other formats.

[0059] The handle 250 can be coupled to the elongate member 152 in any manner that allows for safe and secure movement, such as, for example, threaded fasteners, welding, or being integrally formed with the elongate member 152. If desired, the handle 250 can be detachable, allowing different handles 250 to be used with a given elongate member 152. Additionally, different handles 250 can be used with different turbine shrouds 118. For example, the handling system 150 can be provided with a handle 250 without lift bars 252, 254, where the handling system 150 is configured for use with heavier turbine shrouds 118 that always require lifting equipment. In this case, the handling system 150 can be provided with a handle 250 that indicates whether a person or lifting equipment is required, for example, to prevent accidental handling of a turbine shroud 118 that is too heavy for a human user. Additionally, the handling system 150 can be provided with a handle 250 that requires the use of a specific type of lifting equipment, such as an overhead crane, to prevent the accidental use of the incorrect lifting equipment, such as a forklift.

[0060] 6, 11, and 12, the operation of the handling system 150 for gripping the turbine shroud 118 having the curved slots 128 will now be described.

[0061] FIG. 11 illustrates initial positioning of the handling system 150 over the turbine shroud 118 to be lifted using the handling system 150. As is understood in the art, the turbine shroud 118 is often located in difficult-to-access locations, such as within the casing 116 ( FIG. 3 ) of the turbine 106 ( FIG. 4 ) of the turbine system 100, or within a pocket 260 of an interference-fit shipping container 262, as shown in FIG. 11 . Advantageously, the handling system 150 does not require access to all of the turbine shroud 118, but only an end portion (such as the second end portion 174). In this manner, the handling system 150 can be easily coupled to the turbine shroud 118 in an ergonomic and safe manner, even when the shroud is in a difficult-to-access location.

[0062] 12 illustrates the positioning of the elongate member 152 within the curved slot 128 of the turbine shroud 118. As described above, the elongate member 152 includes a first end 154, a second end 156, and a first bend 158 between the first end 154 and the second end 156. Additionally, a base retention member 170 extends from the first (lower) end 154 of the elongate member 152 to engage and retain a first end portion 172 of the turbine shroud 118 to the elongate member 152. As described above, the base retention member 170 has a length L2 (extending from the lower portion 160 of the elongate member 152) sized to allow the base retention member 170 to move unimpeded through the curved slot 128. That is, the base retention member 170 has a length L2 sized to ensure that it can move through the curved slot 128, and the length L2 is less than the width W1 of the curved slot 128. The shape of the base retention member 170 can also be configured to ensure unobstructed movement through the curved slot 128. During positioning, the first bend 158 also allows the elongate member 152 to move through the curved slot 128, as shown in FIG. 12. During positioning, the sliding retainer 190 slides the elongate member 152 up and out of the way of the turbine shroud 118, as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12. The sliding retainer 190 may be manually held out of the way or may be locked in a retracted position, as shown in FIG. 10C.

[0063] FIG. 6 shows the handling system 150 after further movement (positioning) to a handling position. During transition to the handling position, the elongated member 152 is moved (clockwise and right-handed as shown in FIGS. 6 and 12 ) to move the first bend 158 relative to the inner surface 204 of the curved slot 128 of the turbine shroud 118. More specifically, the first bend 158 of the elongated member 152 is configured to engage the inner surface 204 of the curved slot 128 and position the base retention member 170 to engage and retain the first end portion 172 of the turbine shroud 118 on the elongated member 152. As the first bend 158 contacts the inner surface 204, the base retention member 170 also moves to engage below the first end portion 172 of the turbine shroud 118. Once the base retention member 170 engages the first end portion 172 of the turbine shroud 118 , any vertical movement of the handling system 150 will lift the turbine shroud 118 .

[0064] Aspects of the elongated member 152 are configured to ensure proper movement through the curved slot 128 and positioning in a handling position such that the base retention member 170 engages and retains the first end portion 172 of the turbine shroud 118. For example, the length L1 ( FIGS. 7A-7B ) of the lower portion 160 of the elongated member 152 and the angle β of the first bend 158 of the elongated member 152 are configured to ensure that the base retention member 170 engages the first end portion 172 as shown in FIG. 6 when the elongated member 152 is moved to the handling position. Additionally, the length L2 of the base retention member 170 and / or the size and / or shape of the spacing member 180 are configured to ensure that the base retention member 170 engages the first end portion 172 as shown in FIG. 6 when the elongated member 152 is moved to the handling position. The spacing member 180 may also act as a wear surface to prevent damage to the elongated member 152 or the base retention member 170. As further described, the length L3 of the elongate member 152 between the first bend 158 and the first opening 222 defines a locking position for the sliding retainer 190 and can be sized to ensure that the elongate member 152 is securely fastened to the turbine shroud 118 during use.

[0065] If necessary, during positioning and movement to the handling position, turbine shroud 118 and / or handling system 150 can be tilted to allow base retention member 170 to pass through curved slot 128 and clear first end portion 172 of turbine shroud 118. In the example shown in FIGS. 11 and 12 , turbine shroud 118 is tilted (see arrow A) from a position in which first end portion 172 rests flat on bottom 264 of transport vessel 262. In either case, during positioning, base retention member 170 passes through curved slot 128 and clears first end portion 172 thereof.

[0066] 6 also illustrates sliding the sliding retainer 190 along the elongate member 152 and into the curved slot 128 of the second end portion 174 of the turbine shroud 118 to its handling position on the elongate member 152. As previously discussed and shown in FIGS. 6 and 9 , the sliding retainer 190 can be configured to secure the second end portion 174 of the turbine shroud 118 to the elongate member 152, for example, by an interference fit and / or by abutting the second end portion 174 of the turbine shroud 118 at the handling position. More specifically, the sliding retainer 190 is configured to enter the curved slot 128 and position the elongate member 152 in a spaced relationship therewith such that the base retention member 170 is engaged and secured with the first end portion 172. Additionally, the first side 200 of the sliding retainer 190 engages an inner surface 204 of the curved slot 128 of the turbine shroud 118 in the same respective set as the first bend 158 of the elongate member.

[0067] 6, 9, and 10A show the locking sliding retainer 190 in a locked position where the sliding retainer 190 is fixed relative to the elongated member 152 in a handling position and the sliding retainer 190 grips and holds the turbine shroud 118 on the elongated member 152. In the locked position, the pins 230, 236 extend through the first opening 222 of the elongated member 152 to secure the sliding retainer 190 in the curved slot 128 and secure the second end portion 174 of the turbine shroud 118 to the elongated member 152. As illustrated in FIGS. 7A-7B, the length L3 of the elongated member 152 between the first bend 158 and the first opening 222 defines the locked position for the sliding retainer 190 and can be sized to ensure that the elongated member 152 is securely fastened to the turbine shroud 118 during use.

[0068] Once in the handling position, the handling system 150 can be used to ergonomically and reliably lift and handle the turbine shroud 118 in any manner, for example, by hand and / or using lifting equipment. The handling system 150 enables movement of the turbine shroud 118 to virtually any desired location, such as, but not limited to, being installed on the turbine 106 ( FIG. 3 ), being positioned in a pocket 260 of a shipping container 262 ( FIGS. 11 , 12 ), being moved relative to a machining tool for (re)work on the turbine shroud 118, or being positioned in a wide variety of alternative locations.

[0069] After use, lock 220 may be released to its unlocked position, and sliding retainer 190 may slide out of the handling position, along with elongate member 152, from curved slot 128, as shown in FIG. 10C . Once sliding retainer 190 is moved, handling system 150 no longer fully grips turbine shroud 118, and elongate member 152 may be moved to disengage base retention member 170. That is, elongate member 152 may be moved out of curved slot 128 in the opposite manner to that described in FIGS. 11 and 12 .

[0070] Based on the description provided thus far, it will be appreciated that the handling system 150 can be customized to ensure secure gripping of a wide variety of different sizes and / or shapes of turbine shrouds 118. A non-exhaustive list of configurations of the handling system 150 that can be customized may include: the location of the first opening 222 in the elongate member 152, the length L3 of the elongate member 152 between the first bend 158 and the first opening 222, the length L1 of the lower portion 160 of the elongate member 152 between the first bend 158 and the base retaining member 170, the length L2 of the base retaining member 170, the angle α of the first bend 158 of the elongate member 152, the angle β of the base retaining member 170 relative to the elongate member 152, the angle γ of the inclined surface 206 ( FIGS. 8A-8B ), the size and / or shape of the first portion 240 of the body 192 of the sliding retainer 190, and / or the size, shape, and / or location of the protrusion 244 on the first portion 240 of the body 192 of the sliding retainer 190.

[0071] The handling system 150 can include multiple customized versions thereof for turbine shrouds 118 of different sizes and / or shapes. In addition to the embodiment of Figures 5 and 6 described above, Figures 13A-13D, 14A-14D, and 15A-15D show sets of handling systems 150A-150C having different configurations, each customized for a particular turbine shroud 118A-118C of a given set of shrouds. Each set of turbine shrouds 118A-118C has at least one different dimension between the sets. In Figures 13A to 13D, 14A to 14D and 15A to 15D, the drawings marked "A" show perspective views of the handling systems 150A to 150C, respectively, the drawings marked "B" show cross-sectional views of the handling systems 150A to 150C, respectively, in a partially installed position, the drawings marked "C" show cross-sectional views of the handling systems 150A to 150C, respectively, in an installed operating state, and the drawings marked "D" show partially transparent perspective views of the handling systems 150A to 150C, respectively, in an installed operating state.

[0072] The handling systems 150A-150C can be configured for a first set of turbine shrouds having a first dimension and at least one second set of turbine shrouds 118A-118C having a second dimension that differs from the first set. (Each set of turbine shrouds 118A-118C includes multiple identical turbine shrouds 118A, 118B, or 118C.) The different dimension among the turbine shrouds 118A-118C can be any dimension that requires a corresponding modification of the respective handling systems 150A-150C, such as, but not limited to, the length and / or curvature of the turbine shrouds and / or the curvature, size, and / or shape of the curved slots 128A-128C. Regardless of the set to which a given turbine shroud 118A-118C belongs, each turbine shroud 118 has a curved slot 128 therein. A handling system 150A-150C as described herein may be provided for each of the first set and at least one second set of turbine shrouds 118A-118C. Any number of sets of turbine shrouds 118 are possible.

[0073] A plurality of elongate members 152A-152C may be provided. Each of the elongate members 152A-152C includes a respective first end 154A-154C and a respective second end 156A-156C, and a respective first bend 158A-158C. Each of the elongate members 152A-152C may have a different length (e.g., lengths L1A-L1C and / or L3A-L3C) and / or a different angle αA-αC at the respective first bend 158A-158C compared to other portions of the plurality of elongate members 152A-152C. The different lengths and angles correspond to selected turbine shrouds 118A-118C of a plurality of different turbine shrouds. The lengths L2A-L2C of the base retention members 170A-170C may also be customized, and the angles βA-βC may also be customized for the elongate members 152. The elongated members 152A-152C and first bends 158A-158C are configured to be positioned in the curved slots 128A-128C of the respective turbine shrouds 118A-118C of the respective sets of turbine shrouds. More specifically, the first bends 158A-158C of the elongated members 152A-152C are configured to engage the inner surfaces 204A-204C of the curved slots 128A-128C of the respective sets of turbine shrouds 118A-118C and to position the base retention members 170A-170C to engage and retain the first end portions 172A-172C of the turbine shrouds 118A-118C of the respective sets of shrouds to the elongated members. Base retention members 170A-170C extend from first ends 154A-154C of elongate members 152A-152C to engage and retain first end portions 172A-172C of respective sets of turbine shrouds 118A-118C on the elongate members.

[0074] 8A-8B and 13A-15D, sliding retainer 190 can include a plurality of sliding retainers 190A-190C, each having a different shape and / or size compared to the others of the plurality of sliding retainers to accommodate curved slots 128A-128C of turbine shrouds 118A-118C of a selected one of the plurality of different turbine shrouds. As described in connection with FIGS. 8A-8B, sliding retainers 190A-190C each include a body 192 having an opening 194 configured to slidably receive a respective elongated member 152A-152C for a respective set of turbine shrouds 118. As described herein, the bodies 192 of the sliding retainers 190A-190C are configured to slidably engage the curved slots 128A-128C of the respective sets of turbine shrouds 118A-118C and selectively retain the second end portions 172A-172C of the respective sets of turbine shrouds 118A-118C in a handling position on the respective elongate members 152A-152C. In one example, the bodies 192 of the sliding retainers 190A-190C can include a first portion 240 having a shape and size configured to slidably engage the curved slots 128A-128C of the respective sets of turbine shrouds 118A-118C, and a second portion 242 that is larger (in cross section) than the first portion 240 and configured to abut the second end portions 174A-174C of the respective sets of turbine shrouds 118A-118C to selectively retain the second end portions 174A-174C of the respective sets of turbine shrouds 118A-118C in a handling position on the elongate members 152A-152C. Note that the sliding retainer 190B is shown with a cross section that mates with the curved slot 128B, while the sliding retainer 190A is shown without a cross section that fully mates with the curved slot 128A. Similarly, sliding retainer 190C of FIGS. 15A-15D includes an extension (see also FIG. 8B), while the other sliding retainers 190A-190B do not include extension 208.

[0075] 8A-8B, 9, 10A-10C, 13A-13D, 14A-14D, and 15A-15D, locks 220A-220C are coupled to sliding retainers 190A-190C and are selectively movable between a locked position, in which locks 220A-220C hold sliding retainers 190A-190C in a handling position, and an unlocked position, in which sliding retainers 190A-190C are free to slide on elongate members 152A-152C. Sliding retainers 190A-190C include a first end 196, a second end 198, a first side 200, and a second side 202. The first side 200 of the sliding retainers 190A-190C may extend farther from the first end 196 of the sliding retainers 190A-190C than the second side 202 of the sliding retainers. The first side 200 of the sliding retainers 190A-190C engages the inner surfaces 204A-204C of the curved slots 128A-128C of the turbine shrouds 118A-118C of the same respective set as the first bends 158A-158C of the elongated members 152A-152C. Locks 220A-220C include pins 230, 236 selectively movable between a locked position in which pins 230, 236 extend through first openings 222A-222C of elongated members 152A-152C to hold sliding retainers 190A-190C in a handling position, and an unlocked position in which pins 230, 236 are retracted from first openings 222A-222C of elongated members 152A-152C and allow sliding retainers 190A-190C to slide freely on their respective elongated members 152A-152C. 10C, 13B, 14B, and 15B, in the unlocked position, the pins 230, 236 are positioned in second openings 246A-246C of the elongate member 152 spaced from the first openings 222A-222C. In certain embodiments, the pins may include spring-loaded pins 236 coupled to the sliding retainers 190A-190C.

[0076] As previously mentioned, the handles 250A-250C may also vary depending on the set of turbine shrouds 118A-118C; for example, the turbine shroud 118B may be small enough that the lift element 256 (FIG. 5) is not necessary.

[0077] The handling system 150 and its components may be made of any metal or metal alloy having sufficient strength for its described purpose unless otherwise stated herein. The handling system 150 and its components may be manufactured using any now known or later developed manufacturing technique, for example, machine-based manufacturing such as cutting, welding, bending, etc., and / or additive manufacturing.

[0078] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide various technical and commercial advantages, examples of which are described herein. The handling system enables safe grasping and lifting of turbine shrouds. The handling system is customizable to fit any of a variety of different sized turbine shrouds, addressing handling requirements in both the factory and the field. The system is ergonomic and safe to install despite limited access to the turbine shroud caused, for example, by an interference-fit shipping container. The system also reduces cycle time in the field by allowing the turbine shroud to be installed in the factory, thus reducing handling and potential damage to key components in the field.

[0079] As used herein throughout this specification and claims, approximation language can be applied to modify any quantitative expression that can reasonably vary without resulting in a change in the basic function involved. Thus, values ​​modified by terms such as "approximately," "about," and "substantially" are not limited to the exact value specified. In at least some instances, approximation language can correspond to the precision of the instrument used to measure the value. Here, and throughout this specification and claims, range limitations are combinable and / or interchangeable, and unless the context or language dictates otherwise, such ranges are identified and include all subranges encompassed therein. "About," as applied to a particular value in a range, applies to both endpoints and can indicate + / - 10% of the stated value, unless otherwise dependent on the precision of the instrument used to measure the value.

[0080] The corresponding structure, material, acts, and equivalents of all means-plus-function or step-plus-function elements in the following claims are intended to encompass any structure, material, or act for performing that function in combination with other specifically claimed claim elements. The description of the present disclosure has been presented for purposes of illustration and description and is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the precise form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure. The present embodiments were chosen and described to best explain the principles and practical applications of the disclosure and to enable others skilled in the art to understand the disclosure in its various embodiments so that various modifications may be envisioned as suitable for particular uses. [Explanation of symbols]

[0081] 100 Turbine System 102 Compressor 104 Combustor 106 Turbine 108 Shaft 110 Generator 112 Rotating Blade 114 Stator nozzle 116 Casing 118 Turbine shroud, turbine shroud block, tip shroud 118A Turbine Shroud 118B Turbine Shroud 118C Turbine Shroud 119 curved body 120 Inside 122 Tip 124 areas 126 Connection Components 127 Female opening, female cross opening 128 curved slot 128A curved slot 128B curved slot 128C curved slot 130 Conventional Handling System 132 Opposing Arm 134 Arm 136 Linear Actuator 150 Handling System 152 Long members 152A Long Members 152B Long members 152C Long Members 154 first end 154A first end 154B first end 154C First end 156 Second End 156A Second End 156B Second end 156C Second end 158 First Bend 158A First Bend 158B First bend 158C First Bend 160 Second Lower Section 162 First Upper Part 170 Base holding member 172 first end portion 172A First End Portion 172B first end portion 172C First end portion 174 Second end portion 174A Second End Portion 174B Second end portion 174C Second end portion 176 Second Bend 178 Third Part 180 Spacing member 190 Locking sliding retainer 190A Sliding Retainer 190B Sliding retainer 190C Sliding Retainer 192 Main Unit 194 Openings 196 First upper end 198 Second Lower End 200 First Aspect 201 The Third Aspect 202 Second Aspect 203 The Fourth Aspect 204 Interior 204A Inner surface 204B Inner surface 204C Inner surface 206 Slope 208 Extension 210 Forked member 220 Rock 220A Lock 220B Lock 220C Lock 222 First Opening 222A First opening 222B First opening 222C First opening 224 Second Opening 230 pins 232 Spring Loaded Pin System 234 Plunger 236 Load Pin 238 Spring 240 First Part 242 Second Part 244 Protrusion 246 Third Opening 246A Third Opening 246B Third Opening 246C Third Opening 250 handlebars 250A Handle 250B handle 250C handlebar 252 Bar handle, lift bar 254 Bar handle, lift bar 256 lift elements 260 pockets 262 Transport containers 264 Bottom

Claims

1. A handling system (150) for a turbine shroud (118) having a slot therein, comprising: an elongate member (152) including a first end (154) and a second end (156), the elongate member including a first bend (158) therein, the elongate member (152) configured to be positioned in the slot of the turbine shroud (118); a base retention member (170) extending from the first end (154) of the elongated member (152) for engaging and retaining a first end portion (172) of the turbine shroud (118) on the elongated member (152); a sliding retainer including a body having an opening configured to slidably receive the elongated member, the body of the sliding retainer configured to slidably engage the slot and to selectively retain the second end portion of the turbine shroud in a handling position on the elongated member; a lock (220) coupled to the sliding retainer (190), the lock (220) being selectively movable between a locked position in which the sliding retainer (190) is held in the handling position and an unlocked position in which the sliding retainer (190) is free to slide on the elongate member (152); A handling system (150) comprising:

2. 2. The handling system of claim 1, wherein the lock includes a pin selectively movable between a locked position in which the pin extends through a first opening in the elongated member and holds the sliding retainer in the handling position, and an unlocked position in which the pin retracts from the first opening in the elongated member and allows the sliding retainer to slide freely on the elongated member.

3. 3. The handling system (150) of claim 2, wherein in the unlocked position, the pin (230) is positioned in a second opening (224) of the elongated member (152) spaced from the first opening (222).

4. The handling system (150) of claim 2, wherein the pin (230) comprises a spring-loaded pin (236) coupled to the sliding retainer (190).

5. 2. The handling system of claim 1, wherein the first bend of the elongated member is configured to position the base retention member to engage an inner surface of the slot and to engage and retain the first end portion of the turbine shroud to the elongated member.

6. 6. The handling system of claim 5, wherein the sliding retainer includes a first end, a second end, a first side, and a second side, the first side of the sliding retainer extending farther from the first end of the sliding retainer than the second side of the sliding retainer, and the first side of the sliding retainer engages the same inner surface of the slot of the turbine shroud as the first bend of the elongated member.

7. 7. The handling system (150) of claim 6, wherein the second side (202) of the sliding retainer (190) includes an angled surface (206) that extends less than 90 degrees from the elongate member (152).

8. 2. The handling system of claim 1, wherein the body of the sliding retainer has a first portion having a shape and size configured to slidably engage the slot, and a second portion larger than the first portion and configured to abut the second end portion of the turbine shroud to selectively retain the second end portion of the turbine shroud in the handling position on the elongated member.

9. The handling system (150) of claim 1, further comprising a spacing member (180) coupled to the elongate member (152) adjacent the base retention member (170).

10. The handling system (150) of claim 1, further comprising a handle (250) coupled to the second end (156) of the elongate member (152).

11. 2. The handling system (150) of claim 1, wherein the base retaining member (170) extending from the first end (154) of the elongated member (152) includes a second bend (176) of the elongated member (152).

12. the elongate member (152) includes a plurality of elongate members (152), each having a different length and a different angle at a respective first bend (158) compared to the others of the plurality of elongate members (152) to accommodate a selected turbine shroud (118) of a plurality of different turbine shrouds (118); and 2. The handling system of claim 1, wherein the sliding retainer includes a plurality of sliding retainers, each sliding retainer having at least one of a different shape and a different size compared to others of the plurality of sliding retainers to accommodate the slot in the turbine shroud of a selected one of the plurality of different turbine shrouds.

13. The handling system (150) of claim 1, wherein the slot is a curved slot (128).

14. A handling system (150) for a first set of turbine shrouds (118) having a first dimension and at least one second set of turbine shrouds (118) having a second dimension different from the first set, the turbine shrouds (118) of both sets having a curved slot (128) therein, the handling system (150) comprising, for each of the first set and the second set: an elongate member (152) including a first end and a second end (156), the elongate member (152) including a first bend (158) therein, the elongate member (152) and the first bend (158) configured to be positioned in the curved slots (128) of the turbine shrouds (118) of a respective set; a base retention member (170) extending from the first end of the elongated member (152) for engaging and retaining a first end portion (172) of the turbine shrouds (118) of the respective set on the elongated member (152); a sliding retainer including a body having an opening configured to slidably receive the elongated member for the respective set of turbine shrouds, the body of the sliding retainer configured to slidably engage the curved slot of the respective set of turbine shrouds and to selectively retain the second end portions of the respective set of turbine shrouds in a handling position on the elongated member; a lock (220) coupled to the sliding retainer (190), the lock (220) being selectively movable between a locked position in which the sliding retainer (190) is held in the handling position and an unlocked position in which the sliding retainer (190) is free to slide on the elongate member (152); A handling system (150) comprising:

15. 15. The handling system of claim 14, wherein the lock includes a pin selectively movable between a locked position in which the pin extends through a first opening in the elongate member and holds the sliding retainer in the handling position, and an unlocked position in which the pin retracts from the first opening in the elongate member and allows the sliding retainer to slide freely on the elongate member.

16. 16. The handling system (150) of claim 15, wherein in the unlocked position, the pin (230) is positioned in a second opening (224) of the elongate member (152) spaced from the first opening (222).

17. The handling system (150) of claim 15, wherein the pin (230) comprises a spring-loaded pin (236) coupled to the sliding retainer (190).

18. 15. The handling system (150) of claim 14, wherein the handling system (150) is configured to position the base retention member (170) so that the first bend (158) of the elongated member (152) engages with an inner surface of the curved slot (128) of the turbine shrouds (118) of the respective set and to engage and retain the first end portions (172) of the turbine shrouds (118) of the respective set to the elongated member (152).

19. 20. The handling system of claim 18, wherein the sliding retainer includes a first end, a second end, a first side, and a second side, the first side of the sliding retainer extending farther from the first end of the sliding retainer than the second side of the sliding retainer, and the first side of the sliding retainer engaging the same inner surface of the curved slot of the turbine shroud as the first bend of the elongated member.

20. 15. The handling system of claim 14, wherein the body of the sliding retainer has: a first portion having a shape and size configured to slidably engage the curved slots of the turbine shrouds of the respective sets; and a second portion larger than the first portion and configured to abut the second end portions of the turbine shrouds of the respective sets to selectively retain the second end portions of the turbine shrouds of the respective sets in the handling position on the elongated member.

21. 1. A method of gripping a turbine shroud (118) having a curved slot (128) therein, comprising: positioning an elongate member in the curved slot of the turbine shroud, the elongate member including a first end, a second end, a first bend between the first end and the second end, and a base retention member extending from the first end and engaging and retaining the first end portion of the turbine shroud to the elongate member; sliding a sliding retainer along the elongate member and into the curved slot in the second end portion of the turbine shroud to a handling position on the elongate member, the sliding retainer configured to abut the second end portion of the turbine shroud in the handling position; locking the sliding retainer (190) in a locked position in which the sliding retainer (190) is locked relative to the elongated member (152) in the handling position and the sliding retainer (190) grips and holds the turbine shroud (118) on the elongated member (152); A method comprising:

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