Closed-Loop Cooling for Gas Turbine Stator Vanes

The patent converts the harmful high-temperature environment into a beneficial resource by using the temperature differential between hot gas path components and cooler sections as the driving force for a thermoelectric cooling system. The Peltier effect generates cooling directly at the component interface, while the temperature gradient drives current through the thermoelectric module, effectively using the thermal stress condition to power its own solution and extend component life.

The patent replaces conventional mechanical cooling systems (such as air blast cooling or liquid cooling channels) with a solid-state thermoelectric cooling system. This substitution eliminates moving parts, reduces thermal stress from rapid cooling, and provides more uniform temperature control, thereby extending component life expectancy while maintaining effective temperature management.

The patent introduces a thermoelectric cooling module as an intermediary between the hot gas path components and the cooling system. This intermediary actively manages heat transfer, allowing the use of less complex, lower-cost materials in the gas path components while maintaining durability through controlled thermal management rather than relying solely on expensive high-temperature alloys.

The patent changes the thermal management approach from passive material selection (relying on high-temperature alloy properties) to active thermal control (using thermoelectric modules to dynamically regulate temperature). This parameter change allows for simpler materials while maintaining component durability through controlled temperature profiles that reduce thermal stress and extend service life.