Protective sleeve for turbine engine component and method of installation thereof - Patents.com

Abstract

To provide sleeves for protecting temperature probes within high temperature portions of a gas turbine engine.SOLUTION: In a sleeve 300 for a probe of an environment-sensing device, a first portion 302 includes a first body 310 extending between a first inner surface 308 and a first outer surface 306, at least one first body channel 326 having a filler material 602, and a first-portion projection 320 extending axially along the first portion 302. A second portion 304 includes a second body 334 extending between a second inner surface 332 and a second outer surface 330, at least one second body channel 350 having the filler material 602, and a second-portion receiving channel 346 extending axially along the second portion 304. The first portion 302 and the second portion 304 are configured to couple together by mating the first-portion projection 320 with the second-portion receiving channel 346.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to protective covers for components in high heat environments, and more specifically to a sleeve for protecting a temperature probe within the hot sections of a gas turbine engine. [Background technology]

[0002] At least some known turbine engines include a compressor, a combustor, and a turbine coupled together in a serial-flow relationship. Compressed air is discharged from the compressor, mixed with fuel, and ignited in the combustor to form a high-energy gas stream. The high-energy gas stream flows through the turbine, rotatably driving the turbine and creating a high temperature environment within and downstream of the combustor and turbine.

[0003] In at least some known turbines, sustained high temperatures in the hot flow path can damage components such as the turbine blades. Similarly, in at least some known gas turbine engines, the temperature of the fuel combusted in the compressor and turbine can affect emissions downstream of the turbine. Thus, to monitor temperatures within the gas turbine environment, at least some known turbine engines utilize temperature probes to monitor temperatures within the turbine. More specifically, at least some known turbine engines utilize thermocouples to monitor temperatures within the turbine.

[0004] At least some known thermocouples for turbine engines include a probe configured to extend into the hot flow path. The thermocouple probe may be subjected to thermal and / or fluid pressure stresses and strains. For example, in at least some known turbine engines, the thermocouple probe is located adjacent to a radiation shield. Exposure to thermal and / or mechanical stresses and strains in the hot flow path may damage the outer cover of the probe, such as by fretting against the radiation shield or leakage of hot gases from the exhaust onto a portion of the thermocouple. Such damage to the thermocouple probe may require costly replacement of the thermocouple and may lead to increased turbine engine downtime if the thermocouple needs to be removed and replaced. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In one aspect, a sleeve for a probe of an environmental sensing device is provided. The sleeve includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion includes a first inner surface, a first outer surface, a first body extending between the first inner surface and the first outer surface, at least one first body channel defined in the first portion, and a first portion projection extending axially along the first portion. The second portion includes a second inner surface, a second outer surface, a second body extending between the second inner surface and the second outer surface, at least one second body channel defined in the second portion, and a second portion receiving channel extending axially along the second portion. The at least one first body channel and the at least one second body channel include a filler material. The first portion and the second portion are configured to be coupled together by mating the projection of the first portion with the receiving channel of the second portion.

[0006] In another aspect, a gas turbine is provided. The gas turbine includes an air compressor, a combustor, a turbine disposed along a flow path in flow communication with the air compressor and the combustor, a component disposed along the flow path, and a sleeve for the component. The sleeve includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion includes a first inner surface, a first outer surface, a first body extending between the first inner surface and the first outer surface, at least one first body channel defined in the first portion, and a first portion projection extending axially along the first portion. The at least one first body channel includes a filler material therein. The second portion includes a second inner surface, a second outer surface, a second body extending between the second inner surface and the second outer surface, at least one second body channel defined in the second portion, and a second portion receiving channel extending axially along the second portion. The at least one second body channel includes a filler material therein. The first and second parts are fitted together about the component such that the projection of the first part extends into the receiving channel of the second part.

[0007] In a further aspect, a method is provided for mounting a protective sleeve around a gas turbine component. The sleeve includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion has at least one first body channel defined therein and a first portion projection extending axially along the first portion. The at least one first body channel includes a filler material therein. The second portion has at least one second body channel and a second portion receiving channel extending axially along the second portion. The at least one second body channel includes a filler material therein. The method includes mating the projection of the first portion with the receiving channel of the second portion to form the protective sleeve. The method further includes mounting the protective sleeve around the component such that an inner surface of the sleeve contacts the component. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram of a turbine engine assembly. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a temperature sensing device that may be used with the turbine engine assembly shown in FIG. 1. [Diagram 3] 3 is a perspective view of first and second portions of a protective sleeve that may be used with the temperature sensing device shown in FIG. 2. [Figure 4] 4 is a top view of a portion of the protective sleeve shown in FIG. 3. [Diagram 5] 4 is a top view of the first and second portions of the protective sleeve shown in FIG. 3 fitted together. [Figure 6] 4 is a perspective view of the first and second portions of the protective sleeve shown in FIG. 3 including a filler material. [Figure 7] 7 is a cross-sectional perspective view of a portion of the protective sleeve shown in FIG. 6 taken along line 7-7. [Figure 8] 3 is a perspective view of first and second portions of an alternative configuration of a protective sleeve that may be used with the temperature sensing device shown in FIG. 2. [Figure 9] 3 is a perspective view of first and second portions of another alternative configuration of a protective sleeve that may be used with the temperature sensing device shown in FIG. 2. [Figure 10] 10 is a perspective view of the portions of the protective sleeve shown in FIG. 9 fitted together. [Figure 11] 3 is a perspective view of another alternative configuration of a protective sleeve that may be used with the temperature sensing device shown in FIG. 2. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the portions of the protective sleeve shown in FIG. 11 fitted together. [Figure 13] 1 is a flow diagram of a method for installing a protective sleeve around a gas turbine component. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] In the following specification and claims, reference will be made to a number of terms that shall be defined to have the following meanings.

[0010] The singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0011] Unless otherwise specified, approximation terms such as "generally," "substantially," and "approximately" used herein indicate that the modified term may only be applied to an approximate degree as recognized by a person skilled in the art, rather than to an absolute or complete degree. Thus, values ​​modified with terms such as "approximately," "about," and "substantially" are not limited to the exact value specified. In at least some instances, approximation terms may correspond to the precision of an instrument for measuring the value. Range limits may be specified here and throughout the specification and claims. Such ranges are combinable and / or interchangeable, and include all subranges contained herein, unless otherwise specified by the context or language. In addition, unless otherwise specified, terms such as "first," "second," and the like are used herein merely as labels, and are not intended to impose any order, position, or hierarchical requirements on the items to which they refer. Further, for example, a reference to a "second" item does not require or exclude the presence of, for example, a "first" or lower-numbered item, or a "third" or higher-numbered item.

[0012] Systems and methods described herein relate to a protective sleeve for a gas turbine engine component. Specifically, in an exemplary embodiment, the protective sleeve is for a probe portion of a thermocouple. In an exemplary embodiment, the protective sleeve includes a first portion and a second portion configured to mate together. The first portion includes a first inner surface, a first outer surface, a first body extending between the first inner surface and the first outer surface, at least one first slot defined in the first portion, and a first portion projection extending axially along the first portion. The second portion includes a second inner surface, a second outer surface, a second body extending between the second inner surface and the second outer surface, at least one second slot defined in the second portion, and a second portion receiving channel extending axially along the second portion. The at least one first slot and the at least one second slot include a filler material that facilitates sealing against gas from a hot flow path traversing along the inner surface of the sleeve. The first and second parts are configured to couple together around the probe by mating protrusions of the first part with receiving channels of the second part, such as in an interference fit. For example, when the parts are mated, pairs of first and second slots are aligned with one another such that sealing filler material in each aligned pair of slots extends around the entire circumference of the inner surface of the sleeve. In one embodiment, the protective sleeve provides protection for the probe against damage caused by fretting or other physical contact with other components in the gas turbine. In further or alternative embodiments, the protective sleeve provides protection from thermal damage by radially sealing the probe from high temperature fluids. In some such embodiments, the protective sleeve described herein helps prevent damage to gas turbine components such as the probe, thereby reducing costs associated with replacing the components, which may include downtime for the turbine engine.

[0013] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary rotary machine 100, i.e., a turbomachine, and more specifically, a turbine engine. In the exemplary embodiment, the rotary machine 100 is a gas turbine engine. Alternatively, the rotary machine may be any other turbine engine and / or rotary machine, including, but not limited to, a steam turbine engine, a gas turbofan aircraft engine, other aircraft engines, a wind turbine, a compressor, and a pump. In the exemplary embodiment, the turbine engine 100 includes an intake section 102, a compressor section 104 coupled downstream of the intake section 102, a combustor section 106 coupled downstream of the compressor section 104, a turbine section 108 coupled downstream of the combustor section 106, and an exhaust section 110 coupled downstream of the turbine section 108. The turbine section 108 is coupled to the compressor section 104 via a rotor shaft 112. It should be noted that, as used herein, the term "couple" is not limited to a direct mechanical, thermal, electrical, and / or flow communication connection between components, but can also include an indirect mechanical, thermal, electrical, and / or flow communication connection between multiple components. In the exemplary embodiment, combustor section 106 includes a plurality of combustors 114. Combustor section 106 is coupled to compressor section 104 such that each combustor 114 is in flow communication with compressor section 104. Rotor shaft 112 is further coupled to a load 116, such as, but not limited to, a generator and / or a mechanical drive application. In the exemplary embodiment, compressor section 104 and turbine section 108 each include at least one rotor assembly 118 coupled to rotor shaft 112. Each rotor assembly 118 of turbine section 108 includes a plurality of circumferentially arranged, radially extending turbine blades 119.

[0014] During operation, the intake section 102 channels air 120 towards the compressor section 104. The compressor section 104 compresses the intake air 120 to a higher pressure before discharging the compressed air 122 towards the combustor section 106. The compressed air 122 is channeled to the combustor section 106 where it is mixed with fuel (not shown) and combusted to generate hot combustion gases 124. The combustion gases 124 are channeled downstream towards the turbine section 108 where they impinge on the turbine blades 119 and the thermal energy is converted to mechanical rotational energy that is used to drive the rotor assembly 118 about a longitudinal axis 126. Often, the combustor section 106 and the turbine section 108 are referred to as the hot gas section 109 of the turbine engine 100. The exhaust gases 128 are then discharged to the surrounding atmosphere through the exhaust section 110.

[0015] In some embodiments, the temperature measuring device 150 extends into the turbine section 108 through a casing 152 of the turbine section 108. The temperature measuring device 150 is operably coupled to a controller 205 configured to monitor an output signal from the temperature measuring device 150. More specifically, the temperature measuring device 150 is positioned in the turbine section 108 so as to be able to detect a temperature in the hot gas section 109. The temperature measuring device 150 and other components, such as the turbine blades 119, in the high temperature flow path 109 may be exposed to temperatures as high as 2200 degrees Fahrenheit in some embodiments, creating thermal stresses. Additionally, due to the high velocity of the fluid in the high temperature flow section 109, the temperature measuring device 150 and other components, such as the turbine blades 119, in the high temperature flow section 109 may be exposed to vibration and contact stresses due to interactions with other components of the gas turbine engine 100.

[0016] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a temperature measuring device 150. In an exemplary embodiment, the temperature measuring device 150 is a thermocouple 200. In alternative embodiments, the temperature measuring device 150 is any device that allows for the measurement of thermal changes. In an exemplary embodiment, the temperature measuring device 150 includes a wire covering element 202 having a controller connector 204 at a first end 206 and a probe 208 connected to a second end 210 via a connecting element 212. The controller connector 204 connects to a controller 205 configured to receive temperature measurements from the temperature measuring device 150. The connecting element 212 provides an interface between the probe 208 and the wire covering element 202. The probe 208 further includes a protective cover 209, which in some embodiments may also cover other portions of the temperature measuring device 150, such as the wire covering element 202 and the connecting element 212. In some embodiments, the protective cover 209 is a polymer sleeve or coating that can withstand the high temperatures of a gas turbine. In an exemplary embodiment in which temperature measurement device 150 is a thermocouple 200, two wires (not shown) made of dissimilar metals join at a junction within the probe 208, which generates an electrical potential that measures the temperature of the medium to which the probe 208 is exposed. The temperature measurement is transmitted from the probe 208 through the wire covering element 202 to the controller connector 204 and controller 205.

[0017] In an exemplary embodiment, the probe 208 and a portion of the connection element 212 extend from the turbine casing 152 into the turbine section 108, and the wire cover element 202 and the controller connector 204 extend from within the casing 152 and outside the turbine section 108 to the controller 154. Thus, the probe 208 and a portion of the connection element 212 are exposed to high temperature, high velocity fluids in the hot gas section 109. The high temperature, high velocity fluids may damage the probe 208 and / or the connection element 212. Specifically, in some embodiments, the high temperature / high velocity fluids may cause fretting of the probe 208 against other components in the gas turbine 100. In some such embodiments, repeated fretting at high temperatures may lead to damage to the protective cover 209, exposure of the probe 208 to the environment in the high temperature flow section 109 (shown in FIG. 1 ), and / or additional fretting of the probe 208 itself. In some such embodiments, these conditions may lead to inaccurate readings from the probe 208.

[0018] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary sleeve 300 for use with the temperature measurement device 150. In alternative embodiments, the sleeve 300 may be used with other components of the turbine 100, such as other environmental and motion sensing devices, such as pressure sensors. The sleeve 300 includes a first portion 302 and a second portion 304. In the exemplary embodiment, the first portion 302 has substantially the same configuration as the second portion 304, such that the first portion 302 and the second portion 304 are interchangeable. In some embodiments, the substantially identical shapes of the first portion 302 and the second portion 304 facilitate reduced cost and easy installation of the sleeve 300. Alternatively, the first portion 302 and the second portion 304 have other than substantially the same shape and configuration.

[0019] More specifically, in the exemplary embodiment, the first portion 302 and the second portion 304 each have a substantially arcuate profile that extends in a substantially semi-cylindrical shape. Thus, because of the cylindrical profile, directional components for the sleeve 300, the first portion 302, and the second portion 304 are referred to with reference to the axial, circumferential, and radial directions. However, the terms "axial, circumferential, and radial" are used for convenience of explanation only and should not be construed to limit the sleeve 300 to an arcuate or cylindrical profile, as alternative configurations and shapes that enable the sleeve 300 and the portions 302, 304 to function as described herein are contemplated within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the first portion 302 and the second portion 304 may define a semi-rectangular profile that cooperates to form a square or rectangular profile for the sleeve 300.

[0020] In an exemplary embodiment, the first portion 302 has a first outer surface 306, a first inner surface 308, and a first body 310 defined therebetween extending radially therebetween. The first portion 302 also extends circumferentially between a first end 312 and a second end 314 and axially from a first base surface 311 to a first top surface 313 over a first axial length L1. The first inner surface 308 includes a plurality of first radial slots 316 recessed radially outwardly from the first inner surface 308 to a first depth D1. In one embodiment, the first portion 302 adjacent the first end 312 also includes a first receiving channel 318 depending radially inwardly from the first inner surface 308 to a second depth D2. The first receiving channel 318 defines one side of a first protrusion 320 that protrudes radially inwardly along the first end 312. In one embodiment, first portion 302 adjacent second end 314 further includes a second receiving channel 322 depending radially inwardly from first outer surface 306 to a third depth D3. Second receiving channel 322 defines one side of a second protrusion 324 that projects radially outwardly along second end 314.

[0021] In an exemplary embodiment, the first body channel 326 extends through at least a portion of the first body 310. In some embodiments, the first body channel 326 extends substantially axially through the first body 310 (i.e., the first body channel 326 has an axial length that is greater than its radial or circumferential length). In some such embodiments, the first body channel 326 is located substantially midway between the first outer surface 306 and the first inner surface 308, and substantially midway between the first end 312 and the second end 314. In alternative embodiments, the first body channel 326 is located anywhere within the first body 310 that enables the first portion 302 to function as described herein. In additional embodiments, the first body channel 326 extends substantially circumferentially through the first body 310 at a point between the first end 312 and the second end 314 (i.e., the first body channel 326 has a circumferential length that is greater than its axial or radial length). In other embodiments, the first body channel 326 extends substantially radially through the first body 310 at a point between the first outer surface 306 and the first inner surface 308 (i.e., the first body channel 326 has a radial length that is greater than its axial or circumferential length). In yet other embodiments, the first body channel 326 may have other shapes and orientations in the axial, radial, and circumferential dimensions through the first body 310 that enable the first body channel 326 to function as described herein, such as, for example, a helical configuration.

[0022] In the exemplary embodiment, first receiving channel 318, first protrusion 320, second receiving channel 322, second protrusion 324, and first body channel 326 extend across the entire axial length L1 of first portion 302. In alternative embodiments, first receiving channel 318, first protrusion 320, second receiving channel 322, second protrusion 324, and first body channel 326 each extend across any suitable length of first portion 302 that is less than axial length L1.

[0023] In an exemplary embodiment, the second portion 304 has a second outer surface 330, a second inner surface 332, and a second body 334 defined therebetween extending radially. The first portion 302 also extends circumferentially between a third end 336 and a fourth end 338 and axially from a second base surface 337 to a second top surface 339 over a second axial length L2. The second inner surface 332 includes a plurality of second radial slots 340 recessed radially outwardly from the second inner surface 332 to a fourth depth D4. In one embodiment, the second portion 304 adjacent the third end 336 also includes a third receiving channel 342 depending radially inwardly from the second inner surface 332 to a fifth depth D5. The third receiving channel 342 defines one side of a third protrusion 344 that protrudes radially inwardly along the third end 336. In one embodiment, second portion 304 adjacent fourth end 338 further includes a fourth receiving channel 346 depending radially inwardly from second outer surface 330 to a sixth depth D6. Fourth receiving channel 346 defines one side of a fourth protrusion 348 that projects radially outwardly along fourth end 338.

[0024] In an exemplary embodiment, the second body channel 350 extends through at least a portion of the second body 334. In some embodiments, the second body channel 350 extends substantially axially through the second body 334. In some such embodiments, the second body channel 350 is located substantially midway between the second outer surface 330 and the second inner surface 332, and substantially midway between the third end 336 and the fourth end 338. In alternative embodiments, the second body channel 350 is located anywhere within the second body 334 that enables the second portion 304 to function as described herein. In additional embodiments, the second body channel 350 extends substantially circumferentially through the second body 334 at a point between the third end 336 and the fourth end 338. In other embodiments, the second body channel 350 extends substantially radially through the second body 334 at a point between the second outer surface 330 and the second inner surface 332. In yet other embodiments, the second body channel 350 may have other shapes and orientations in the axial, radial, and circumferential dimensions through the second body 334 that enable the second body channel 350 to function as described herein, such as, for example, a helical configuration.

[0025] In the exemplary embodiment, the third receiving channel 342, the third protrusion 344, the fourth receiving channel 346, the fourth protrusion 348, and the second body channel 350 each extend across the entire second axial length L2 of the second portion 304. In alternative embodiments, the third receiving channel 342, the third protrusion 344, the fourth receiving channel 346, the fourth protrusion 348, and the second body channel 350 each extend across any suitable length of the second portion 304 that is less than the second axial length L2.

[0026] In an exemplary embodiment, the first axial length L1 and the second axial length L2 are substantially the same. In alternative embodiments, the axial lengths L1, L2 may be different lengths. In some embodiments, the axial lengths L1, L2 are greater than or equal to about 0.25 inches and less than or equal to about 2.5 inches. In further embodiments, the axial lengths L1, L2 are greater than or equal to about 0.75 inches and less than or equal to about 1.25 inches. In yet other embodiments, the axial lengths L1, L2 are about 1.0 inches. In alternative embodiments, the axial lengths L1, L2 are any length that enables the sleeve 300 to function as described herein.

[0027] 4 is a top view of the first portion 302 of the sleeve 300. In an exemplary embodiment, the second portion 304 has substantially the same configuration as the first portion 302, and therefore the description of the first portion 302 with reference to FIG. 3 also applies to the second portion 304. In an exemplary embodiment, the first portion 302 has an outer diameter length L3 that corresponds to the diameter of two points on the first outer surface 306, one point at the first end 312, and one point at the second end 314. In one embodiment, the outer diameter length L3 is equal to or greater than about 100 mils and equal to or less than about 500 mils. In a further embodiment, the outer diameter length L3 is equal to or greater than about 200 mils and equal to or less than about 400 mils.

[0028] In an exemplary embodiment, first portion 302 also has an inner diameter length L4 that corresponds to a diameter spanning two points on first inner surface 308, one point at first end 312, and one point at second end 314. In one embodiment, inner diameter length L4 is greater than or equal to about 25 mils and less than or equal to about 350 mils. In a further embodiment, inner diameter length L4 is greater than or equal to about 50 mils and less than or equal to about 250 mils. In alternative embodiments, diameters L3, L4 are any lengths that enable sleeve 300 to function as described herein.

[0029] As shown in FIG. 4, the first receiving channel 318 has a first channel width L5 across the second distance D2. The second receiving channel 322 has a second channel width L6 across the third distance D3. In one embodiment, the channel widths L5, L6 are greater than or equal to about 5 mils and less than or equal to about 20 mils. In a further embodiment, the channel widths L5, L6 are greater than or equal to about 9 mils and less than or equal to about 15 mils. In yet another embodiment, the channel widths L5, L6 are about 12 mils. In alternative embodiments, the channel widths L5, L6 are any length that enables the sleeve 300 to function as described herein.

[0030] 5 is a top view of first portion 302 mated with second portion 304 forming sleeve 300. In an exemplary embodiment, when first portion 302 and second portion 304 are mated, their respective inner surfaces 308, 332 cooperate to define a cylindrical inner wall of sleeve 300, and their respective outer surfaces 306, 330 cooperate to define a cylindrical outer wall of sleeve 300. Alternatively, inner surfaces 308, 332 and / or outer surfaces 306, 330 are arranged in any suitable manner that enables sleeve 300 to function as described herein.

[0031] In an exemplary embodiment in which the first and second portions 302, 304 are substantially identical in shape and configuration, the second portion 304 is inverted relative to the first portion 302 to allow mating with the first portion 302. More specifically, the first protrusion 320 of the first portion 302 is received within the fourth receiving channel 346 of the second portion 304 and the fourth protrusion 348 of the second portion 304 is received within the first receiving channel 318 of the first portion 302, for example, in an interference fit, creating a first seal 502 between the first and second portions 302, 304. Additionally, in the exemplary embodiment, the second projection 324 of the first portion 302 is received within the third receiving channel 342 of the second portion 304 and the third projection 344 of the second portion 304 is received within the second receiving channel 322 of the first portion 302, e.g., in an interference fit, creating a second seal 504 between the first portion 302 and the second portion 304. The first seal 502 and the second seal 504 between the first portion 302 and the second portion 304 form a sleeve 300 that is radially sealed from the outside environment.

[0032] In an exemplary embodiment, the first portion 302 and the second portion 304 slidably mate with one another in an axial direction. More specifically, in some such embodiments, by way of example, the first protrusion 320 on the first top surface 313 aligns with the fourth receiving channel 346 on the second base surface 337, and the fourth receiving channel 346 slides axially along the first protrusion 320 until the first base surface 311 and the second base surface 337 (shown in FIG. 3 ) are axially aligned, such that the first end 312 is coupled in a face-to-face relationship with the fourth end 338 and the second end 314 is coupled in a face-to-face relationship with the third end 336. The remaining protrusions 324, 344, 348 and receiving channels 318, 322, 342 similarly slidably engage one another in the configurations described above. In alternative embodiments, the first portion 302 and the second portion 304 may be engaged in other ways, such as by circumferential and / or radial slidable engagement. In yet other embodiments, the first portion 302 and the second portion 304 may be engaged in other ways, such as by clipping or twisting together.

[0033] It will be understood that the description of sleeve 300 with reference to FIGS. 3-5 is by way of example, and other embodiments of sleeve 300 are contemplated within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, in some embodiments, sleeve 300 includes more than just first portion 302 and second portion 304 that interface along their respective circumferential ends and join together to form sleeve 300. In alternative embodiments, first portion 302 and second portion 304 are at least partially formed as a single integral piece. In additional embodiments, first portion 302 and second portion 304 may have a greater or lesser number of receiving channels and / or protrusions. For example, first portion 302 may have a single receiving channel (i.e., first receiving channel 318) and protrusion (i.e., first protrusion 320), and second portion 304 may also have a single receiving channel (i.e., fourth receiving channel 346) and protrusion (i.e., fourth protrusion 348). In some such embodiments, a single seal (ie, first seal 502 ) may be formed between first portion 302 and second portion 304 .

[0034] 6 is a schematic diagram of a sleeve 300 having a portion filled with a filler material 602. In an exemplary embodiment of the sleeve 300, the filler material 602 fills at least a portion of at least one of the first radial slots 316 and at least a portion of at least one of the second radial slots 340. In a further embodiment, the filler material 602 fills each slot 316, 340 of the first portion 302 and the second portion 304 to at least a first depth D1 and a fourth depth D4. In an exemplary embodiment, the slots 316 and 340 are arranged such that when the portions 302, 304 are mated, pairs of the first slots 316 and the second slots 340 are aligned with one another such that the filler material 602 extends around the entire circumference of the inner surfaces 308, 332 of the sleeve 300 in each aligned pair of the slots 316, 340. Alternatively, slots 316 and 340 are arranged in any suitable manner that enables sleeve 300 to function as described herein.

[0035] In an exemplary embodiment, the filler material 602 is a ceramic, polymer, and / or metal based material. In a further embodiment, the filler material 602 is a silica based material. In further or alternative embodiments, the filler material 602 is any material capable of withstanding heat of 1100 degrees Fahrenheit or greater without melting. In a further embodiment, the filler material 602 is any material capable of withstanding heat of 1400 degrees Fahrenheit or greater without melting. In an alternative embodiment, the filler material 602 is any material that enables the sleeve 300 to function as described herein.

[0036] In an exemplary embodiment, the first portion 302 and the second portion 304 are made from a metallic material. In some such embodiments, the portions 302, 304 are iron, zinc, cobalt, and / or nickel based. In some such embodiments, the portions 302, 304 include zinc-, cobalt-, and / or nickel-based superalloys. In alternative or further embodiments, the portions 302, 304 include steel. In alternative embodiments, the portions 302, 304 are made from any material that is corrosion resistant, capable of withstanding heat of 1100 degrees Fahrenheit or greater without melting, and / or that enables the sleeve 300 to function as described herein. In yet another embodiment, the portions 302, 304 are made from any material that is corrosion resistant, capable of withstanding heat of 1400 degrees Fahrenheit or greater without melting, and / or that enables the sleeve 300 to function as described herein. In some embodiments, first portion 302 and second portion 304 are fabricated using an additive manufacturing process such as direct metal laser melting. In other embodiments, first portion 302 and second portion 304 are fabricated using any method that allows for the formation of sleeve 300 as described herein.

[0037] In an exemplary embodiment, the first portion 302 and the second portion 304 provide structural integrity to the sleeve 300. When coupled to a portion of the gas turbine 100, such as the probe 208 of the temperature measurement device 150, the sleeve 300 helps prevent fretting of the probe 208, which can cause damage to the probe 208. In some embodiments, the filler material 602 within the sleeve 300 provides thermal insulation to the first portion 302, the second portion 304, and / or the probe 208 when the sleeve 300 is coupled. In further or additional embodiments, the filler material 602 helps seal the inner surface 308, 332 of the sleeve 300 from hot gas moving axially within the sleeve 300 from an external environment, such as the environment within the hot flowpath section 109. In yet another embodiment, the filler material 602 provides vibration damping to the sleeve 300 when positioned within the hot flowpath section 109, further inhibiting fretting.

[0038] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the first portion 302 taken along line 7-7. In an exemplary embodiment, axially below the first top surface 313 (shown in FIG. 3 ), the first portion 302 is substantially hollow. More specifically, in one embodiment, the first body channel 326 extends circumferentially and occupies substantially all of the first body 310 between the first outer surface 306 and the first inner surface 308, and between the first end 312 and the second end 314. In some such embodiments, at least a portion of the first body channel 326 is at least partially filled with the filler material 602. In further embodiments, substantially all of the first body channel 326 is filled with the filler material 602. In an exemplary embodiment, after fabrication of the first portion 302, the first body channel 326 is filled axially downward from the first top surface 313. In alternative embodiments, the first body channel 326 may be filled from any other portion of the first portion 302, such as, for example, the first outer surface 306, the first inner surface 308, the first end 312, and / or the second end 314.

[0039] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of sleeve 300. In this embodiment, sleeve 300, referred to as sleeve 400, is substantially identical to sleeve 300, except as described below. In an exemplary embodiment, sleeve 400 includes a first portion 302 and a second portion 304. In one embodiment, first portion 302 includes a plurality of first body channels 326 extending along a first length L1 of first portion 302 from first top surface 313 to first base surface 311. In some such embodiments, first body channels 326 are substantially consistent in shape and area from first top surface 313 to first base surface 311. In further or alternative embodiments, first body channels 326 are open at both first top surface 313 and first base surface 311. More specifically, in an exemplary embodiment, three first body channels 326 are circumferentially spaced apart from one another within first portion 302. In alternative embodiments, the first portion 302 includes a greater or lesser number of the first body channels 326. In alternative embodiments, the first body channels 326 have any shape that allows them to function as described herein. Some such shapes include, but are not limited to, triangles and squares, such as trapezoids or diamonds. As shown in FIG. 8, in the sleeve 400, the second portion 304 includes a plurality of second body channels 350 that extend from the second top surface 339 to the second base surface 337. In an exemplary embodiment, the second body channels 350 have the same or similar configuration as the first body channels 326. Additionally, in an exemplary embodiment, the first body channels 326 and the second body channels 350 are configured to receive a filler material 602 therein (as shown in FIG. 7).

[0040] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of another alternative embodiment of sleeve 300. In this embodiment, sleeve 300, referred to as sleeve 500, is substantially identical to sleeves 300 and 400, except as described below. In an exemplary embodiment, with respect to first portion 302, a first projection 902 extends circumferentially from first end 312 to a seventh distance D7. Also, in an exemplary embodiment, a first receiving channel 904 depends circumferentially from second end 314 to first body 310 to an eighth depth D8. In an exemplary embodiment, second portion 304 includes a second projection 906 extending circumferentially from third end 336 to a ninth distance D9. Also, in an exemplary embodiment, a second receiving channel 908 depends circumferentially from fourth end 338 to second body 334 to a tenth depth D10. The first protrusion 902 and the second receiving channel 908 function substantially as described above with respect to the first protrusion 320 and the fourth receiving channel 346, and the second protrusion 906 and the first receiving channel 904 function substantially as described above with respect to the third protrusion 344 and the second receiving channel 322.

[0041] In an exemplary embodiment, the first protrusion 902 and the first receiving channel 904 extend across the entire axial length L1 of the first portion 302. Similarly, in an exemplary embodiment, the second protrusion 906 and the second receiving channel 908 extend across the entire axial length L2 of the second portion 304. In an alternative embodiment, the first protrusion 902, the first receiving channel 904, the second protrusion 906, and the second receiving channel 908 extend across any axial length L1, L2 of the portions 302, 304 that allows the protrusions 902, 906 and the receiving channels 904, 908 to function as described herein. Also, in an exemplary embodiment, the seventh distance D7 and the ninth distance D9 are substantially the same. Similarly, in an exemplary embodiment, the eighth depth D8 and the tenth depth D10 are substantially the same. In alternative embodiments, distances D7 and D9 and depths D8 and D10 are any distances that enable first portion 302 and second portion 304 to function as described herein.

[0042] 10 is a perspective view of the sleeve 500. In an exemplary embodiment, the first protrusion 902 of the first portion 302 is received within the second receiving channel 908 of the second portion 304, e.g., in an interference fit, to create a first seal 502 between the first portion 302 and the second portion 304. Additionally, in an exemplary embodiment, the second protrusion 906 is received within the first receiving channel 904, e.g., in an interference fit, to create a second seal 504 between the first portion 302 and the second portion 304. The first seal 502 and the second seal 504 between the first portion 302 and the second portion 304 form the sleeve 500 that is radially sealed from the outside environment. In some embodiments, the protrusions 902, 906 and the receiving channels 904, 908 have a tapered shape, allowing the protrusions 902, 906 to be circumferentially locked into the receiving channels 904, 908 like puzzle pieces. In alternative embodiments, the protrusions 902, 906 and receiving channels 904, 908 have any shape that enables them to function as described herein.

[0043] 11 and 12 are perspective views of another alternative embodiment of sleeve 300. In this embodiment, sleeve 300, referred to as sleeve 600, is substantially identical to sleeve 500, except as described below. In the exemplary embodiment of sleeve 600, first portion 302 includes first protrusion 902 and second protrusion 906, and second portion 304 includes first receiving channel 904 and second receiving channel 908. Similar to sleeve 500, in sleeve 600, first protrusion 902 is received within second receiving channel 908 creating first seal 502, and second protrusion 906 is received within first receiving channel 904 creating second seal 504. First seal 502 and second seal 504 between first portion 302 and second portion 304 form sleeve 600, which is radially sealed from the outside environment. In some embodiments, the protrusions 902, 906 and receiving channels 904, 908 are configured substantially similarly to that described above with reference to FIGS.

[0044] 13 is a flow diagram of an exemplary method 1300 of installing a protective sleeve around a gas turbine component. The method includes mating 1302 a first protrusion (e.g., first protrusion 320, 902) of a first portion (e.g., first portion 302) of a sleeve (e.g., sleeve 300, 400, 500, 600) with a second receiving channel (e.g., fourth receiving channel 346 or second receiving channel 908) of a second portion (e.g., second portion 304) of the sleeve to form a protective sleeve. The first portion has at least one slot (e.g., first radial slot 316) filled with a filler material (e.g., filler material 602). The second portion has at least one slot (e.g., second radial slot 340) filled with a filler material. The method further includes placing 1304 a protective sleeve around a component (e.g., probe 208 of temperature measurement device 150) of the gas turbine (e.g., gas turbine 100) such that an inner surface (e.g., first inner surface 308 and second inner surface 332) of the sleeve contacts the component.

[0045] The above-described embodiments provide a protective cover for at least some components located in the hot flow path of a gas turbine. In particular, a thermocouple probe located in the hot flow path of the turbine may be subject to thermal stress and damage due to high temperatures. Additionally or alternatively, the probe may be damaged by fretting and other physical contact with other components of the turbine due to the high velocity of fluid in the hot flow path. The protective sleeve, when placed around the probe, protects the probe from thermal and physical stress and damage. In some embodiments, the body of the first and second parts physically seals the sleeve from the outside environment. In the same or alternative embodiments, a filler material in the sleeve may help to attenuate the impact of the probe on other components and / or thermally insulate the probe from the outside environment. Thus, the sleeve may help reduce costs associated with damage to the thermocouple probe and other components, such as machine downtime. Additionally, because the sleeve is less costly than some other components, such as thermocouples, the removable nature of the first and second parts allows for a damaged sleeve to be easily removed and replaced.

[0046] The present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments described herein, but rather the method steps and / or system elements may be utilized separately and independently of other steps and / or elements described herein. For example, the methods and systems are not limited to practice only with turbine engines as described herein. Rather, the methods and systems may be implemented and utilized in connection with many other applications.

[0047] Although specific features of various embodiments may be shown in some drawings and not in others, this is for convenience only. Moreover, references to specific embodiments in the above description are not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also incorporate the recited features. In accordance with the principles of the present disclosure, any feature of a drawing may be referenced and / or claimed in combination with any feature of any other drawing.

[0048] This specification uses several examples, including the best mode, to enable those skilled in the art to practice the disclosure, including making and using any device or system and performing any related methods. The patentable scope of the disclosure is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements that do not differ substantially from the literal language of the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0049] 100 Rotating Machinery / Gas Turbine Engines 102 Intake section 104 Compressor Section 106 Combustor Section 108 Turbine Section 109 Hot gas section / Hot flow passage / Hot flow section 110 Exhaust Section 112 rotor shaft 114 Combustor 116 Load 118 Rotor Assembly 119 Turbine Blade 120 Intake air 122 Compressed Air 124 Hot Combustion Gases 126 Longitudinal Axis 128 Exhaust Gas 150 Temperature measuring devices / environmental sensing devices / components 152 Turbine casing 154 Controller 200 Thermocouples / Environmental Sensing Devices / Components 202 Wire Covering Elements 204 Controller Connector 205 Controller 206 First End 208 Probe 209 Protective Cover 210 Second end 212 Connection elements 300 sleeve 302 First Part 304 Second Part 306 First Outer Surface 308 First Inner Surface 310 First Body 311 first base surface 312 First end 313 First Top 314 Second End 316 First radial slot 318 First Reception Channel 320 First protrusion 322 Secondary Reception Channel 324 Second protrusion 326 First Body Channel 330 Second Outer Surface 332 Second Inner Surface 334 Second Body 336 Third End 337 Second base surface 338 Fourth End 339 Second Top 340 Second radial slot 342 Third Reception Channel / Second Reception Channel 344 3rd prong / 2nd prong 346 4th Reception Channel / 2nd Reception Channel 348 Fourth prong 350 Second Body Channel 400 sleeve 500 sleeve 502 First Seal 504 Second Seal 600 sleeve 602 Filler material 902 First protrusion 904 1st receiving channel / 2nd receiving channel 906 Second protrusion 908 Secondary Reception Channel 1300 methods 1302 Steps 1304 Steps 7-7 line D1 First Depth D2 Second Depth / Second Distance D3 3rd Depth / 3rd Distance D4 Fourth Depth D5 Fifth Depth D6 6th Depth D7 The seventh distance D8 8th Depth D9 9th Distance D10 10th Depth L1 First axial length L2 Second axial length L3 Outer diameter length L4 Inner diameter length L5 First Channel Width L6 Second Channel Width

Claims

1. A sleeve (300, 400, 500, 600) for a probe (208) of an environmental sensing device (150, 200), the sleeve (300, 400, 500, 600) comprising: a semi-cylindrical first portion (302) extending circumferentially between a first end (312) and a second end (314) and extending axially from a first base surface (311) to a first top surface (313); A first inner surface (308); A first outer surface (306); a first body (310) extending radially between said first inner surface (308) and said first outer surface (306); at least one first body channel (326) defined within said first body (310), said at least one first body channel (326) including a filler material (602) therein; and a first portion projection (320, 902) extending axially along said first end (312) of said first portion (302); a first portion (302) comprising: a semi-cylindrical second portion (304) extending circumferentially between a third end (336) and a fourth end (338) and extending axially from a second base surface (337) to a second top surface (339); A second inner surface (332); A second outer surface (330); a second body (334) extending radially between said second inner surface (332) and said second outer surface (330); at least one second body channel (350) defined within said second body (334), said at least one second body channel (350) containing said filler material (602) therein; and a second portion receiving channel (346, 908) extending axially along the fourth end (338) of the second portion (304), the first portion (302) and the second portion (304) being configured to couple together by mating a protrusion (320, 902) of the first portion with the second portion receiving channel (346, 908); A second portion (304) comprising: A sleeve (300, 400, 500, 600).

2. 2. The sleeve (300, 400, 500, 600) of claim 1, wherein the first portion (302) further comprises a second protrusion (324, 906) extending axially along the second end (314) of the first portion (302), and the second portion (304) comprises a second receiving channel (342, 904) extending axially along the third end (336) of the second portion (304), and the first portion (302) and the second portion (304) are further configured to be coupled together by mating the second protrusion (324, 906) with the second receiving channel (342, 904).

3. 2. The sleeve (300, 400, 500, 600) of claim 1, wherein the first portion (302) further comprises a first portion receiving channel (322, 908) extending axially along the second end (314) of the first portion (302), and the second portion (304) further comprises a second portion protrusion (344, 906) extending axially along the third end (336) of the second portion (304), and the first portion (302) and the second portion (304) are further configured to be coupled together by mating the first portion receiving channel (322, 908) with the second portion protrusion (344, 906).

4. 2. The sleeve of claim 1, further comprising at least one first slot defined in said first portion and at least one second slot defined in said second portion, said at least one first slot being recessed radially outward from said first inner surface and including said filler material therein, and said at least one second slot being recessed radially outward from said second inner surface and including said filler material therein.

5. 2. The sleeve (300, 400, 500, 600) of claim 1, wherein the first body channel (326) extends axially through the first body (310) for a first axial length (L1) of the first portion (302) from the first top surface (313) to the first base surface (311), and the second body channel (350) extends axially through the first body (310) for a second axial length (L2) of the second portion (304) from the second top surface (339) to the second base surface (337).

6. The sleeve (300, 400, 500, 600) of claim 5, wherein the at least one first body channel (326) comprises three body channels circumferentially spaced apart from one another along the first portion (302).

7. The sleeve (300, 400, 500, 600) of claim 1, wherein the second portion receiving channel (346, 908) extends the entire axial length (L2) of the second portion (304).

8. The sleeve (300, 400, 500, 600) of claim 1, wherein said first portion (302) and said second portion (304) comprise at least one of iron, zinc, cobalt, and nickel.

9. The sleeve (300, 400, 500, 600) of claim 1, wherein the filler material (602) comprises at least one of a ceramic, a polymer, and a metal-based material.

10. 10. The sleeve (300, 400, 500, 600) of claim 9, wherein the filler material (602) comprises a material capable of withstanding heat of 1100 degrees Fahrenheit (593 degrees Celsius) or greater without melting.

11. A gas turbine (100), comprising: An air compressor (104); A combustor (106); a turbine (108) disposed in flow communication with the air compressor (104) and the combustor (106) along a flow path; an environmental sensing device (150, 200) disposed along the flow path; A sleeve (300, 400, 500, 600) according to any one of claims 1 to 10; wherein the first portion (302) and the second portion (304) of the sleeve (300, 400, 500, 600) are fitted together around the environment sensing device (150, 200) such that a projection (320, 902) of the first portion extends into a receiving channel (346, 908) of the second portion.

12. The gas turbine (100) of claim 11, wherein the environmental sensing device (150, 200) comprises a thermocouple (200) having a probe (208), and the sleeve (300, 400, 500, 600) at least partially surrounds the probe (208).

13. The gas turbine (100) of claim 11, wherein the environmental sensing device (150, 200) is located downstream of the combustor (106).

14. 13. A method (1300) for installing a protective sleeve (300, 400, 500, 600) around an environmental sensing device (150, 200) of a gas turbine (100), the sleeve (300, 400, 500, 600) being as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 10, the method (1300) comprising: mating (1302) a protrusion (320, 902) of said first portion with a receiving channel (346, 908) of said second portion to form said protective sleeve (300, 400, 500, 600); placing (1304) the protective sleeve (300, 400, 500, 600) around the environmental sensing device (150, 200) such that an inner surface (308, 332) of the sleeve (300, 400, 500, 600) contacts the environmental sensing device (150, 200); The method (1300).

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