Turbomachine Blade Ribs Intersecting at Trailing Edge
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cooling systems for turbo machines, such as gas turbines, are prone to reduced cooling performance due to foreign particles plugging channels and inefficient heat transfer, especially at the trailing edge where channel height is minimal, leading to aerodynamic losses and thermal stresses.
Innovation Solution
The design features first and second ribs that intersect at the trailing end to form common outlet channels with increased thickness, promoting a defined fluid flow direction and enhanced heat transfer, while maintaining mechanical strength and reducing clogging risks through smooth, curved channel paths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If ribs are joined at the central plane of the component, then the cooling system can be implemented, but the height of the cooling channels is merely 50% of the total height available, which is especially critical at the trailing edge where the height of the cooling passage is the smallest
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional rib arrangement (intersecting in the mid-plane) to a three-dimensional configuration where ribs connect at the trailing edge, utilizing the full height of the component. This dimensional change allows the cooling channels to extend across the entire height of the blade, effectively doubling the available channel height from 50% to nearly 100% of the total height.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of joining ribs at the central plane (mid-height) as in conventional designs, the patent inverts the connection location to the trailing edge of the component. This inversion allows the cooling channels to utilize the full height of the component from the leading face to the trailing face, maximizing the channel height available for cooling flow.
2Productivity
If the cooling fluid contains foreign particles, then the cooling system can operate, but particles may be caught in the matrix and plug channels, reducing cooling performance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces curved transition sections at the rib intersections instead of sharp corners or abrupt changes. These curved passages reduce flow separation and minimize areas where particles can accumulate, thereby reducing the risk of clogging while maintaining cooling efficiency. The smooth curvature allows particles to follow the flow more easily without getting trapped.
3Temperature
If ribs are arranged to form cooling channels, then cooling can be provided, but aerodynamic losses occur due to inefficient heat transfer and flow patterns
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes geometric parameters of the cooling channels, including the curvature radius of transition sections, the angle of rib inclination, and the distribution of rib spacing. These parameter changes improve flow patterns within the channels, enhancing heat transfer efficiency while minimizing flow separation and reducing aerodynamic losses in the main flow path.
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 design improves cooling efficiency, reduces aerodynamic losses, and enhances mechanical integrity by ensuring a consistent fluid flow and increased contact area between pressure and suction sides, minimizing thermal stresses and clogging risks.
Implementation Method 1
The inner space forms a passage for a cooling fluid from the inlet to the outlet
Implementation Method 2
enhanced heat transfer
Data Source
AI summary
A component defines a blade or a vane for a rotor rotatable about a rotary axis. An inner space of the component is limited by first and second walls, and forms a passage for a cooling fluid. First and second ribs project form the first and second walls, respectively, and form first and second channels for the fluid from a leading end to a trailing end of the ribs. The first and second ribs intersect and are directly connected to each other at said intersections. The first and second ribs intersect at an intersection joint in the proximity of the trailing end in such a way that the first channel and the second channel form a common outlet channel with a flow area.