Acute-Angle Supply Conduits for Cavity Cooling Uniformity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for cooling rotary machines, such as gas turbine engines, experience non-uniform circulation of cooling fluid within cavities defined between inner and outer casings, leading to uneven heating and potential out-of-round conditions, which limits design flexibility and requires cumbersome conduit modifications.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of supply conduits oriented at an acute angle relative to the casing axis and with axially asymmetric cross-sections that extend across the entire axial length of the cavity, facilitating more uniform cooling fluid distribution and routing between external components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If cooling fluid is supplied through conventional conduits coupled to the outer casing, then the inner casing can be cooled, but the cooling circulation within the cavity becomes non-uniform
Solution Approach 1:
The conduit cross-section is made asymmetric with respect to the cavity, with a first dimension extending substantially parallel to the cavity axis and a second dimension extending substantially perpendicular to the cavity axis, where the first dimension is greater than the second dimension. This asymmetric configuration creates a jet that spreads more uniformly across the cavity cross-section, improving cooling uniformity and preventing casing distortion.
Solution Approach 2:
The conduit is positioned and oriented to deliver cooling fluid to specific regions of the cavity with different flow characteristics. The acute angle orientation and asymmetric cross-section create localized high-velocity jets that target specific areas, ensuring uniform cooling distribution across the entire cavity rather than concentrated cooling at single points.
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional supply conduits are used, then cooling can be provided to the cavity, but the conduits require modification to fit through surrounding components and support fixtures
Solution Approach 1:
The conduit is oriented at an acute angle with respect to the axis of the cavity rather than being perpendicular or parallel. This angular orientation allows the conduit to be routed through the outer casing at locations that avoid surrounding components and support fixtures, simplifying installation without requiring complex modifications to existing structures.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach ensures more uniform cooling fluid circulation, reduces the likelihood of inner casings becoming out of round, and eliminates the need for design accommodations due to uneven heating, while allowing for easier conduit routing past obstructing components.
Implementation Method 1
circulation of cooling air within the cavity
Implementation Method 2
cooling fluid may cool the inner casing
Data Source
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AI summary
A system (100) includes an inner casing (132) and an outer casing (122) extending circumferentially about, and spaced radially outward from, the inner casing such that at least one cavity (128) is defined therebetween. The system further includes at least one conduit (260) coupled to the outer casing in flow communication with the at least one cavity. The at least one conduit is oriented at an acute angle (264) relative to a longitudinal axis (290) of the outer casing.