Ceramic Matrix Composite Turbine Vane Load Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Gas turbine engines with ceramic matrix composite vanes face challenges in managing high-temperature loads and aerodynamic stresses, leading to potential leakage and complex casing integration issues, particularly in transferring loads from ceramic matrix composite vanes to metallic structures without compromising the integrity of the ceramic components.
Innovation Solution
A turbine section design featuring a metallic spar extending through the vane airfoil, coupled with a metallic carrier that anchors the vane to the turbine case at two axially separated locations, and an inner vane static seal assembly that manages loads through the spar and carrier to minimize deflection and chemical interaction, thereby reducing leakage and integration complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If ceramic matrix composite vanes are used in high-temperature environments, then temperature resistance and efficiency are improved, but load management and chemical interaction with metallic structures become problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The vane is segmented into a ceramic matrix composite airfoil section and a separate metallic spar section. The spar extends through the airfoil and provides the load-bearing function, while the ceramic airfoil focuses on high-temperature resistance. This segmentation allows each material to perform its optimal function without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The metallic spar acts as an intermediary between the ceramic airfoil and the turbine case. It transfers aerodynamic loads from the ceramic airfoil to the turbine case, avoiding direct chemical interaction between ceramic and metallic case structures while maintaining load management integrity.
2Loss of energy
If ceramic matrix composite materials are used, then cooling air use is decreased, but integration with metallic turbine case becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The metallic spar serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the ceramic airfoil, transfers aerodynamic loads to the turbine case, and acts as a thermal barrier reducing the need for cooling air. This multi-functionality simplifies the overall integration compared to using ceramic materials for all load-bearing components.
3Device complexity
If direct coupling of ceramic vanes to metallic turbine case is attempted, then chemical interaction and leakage issues arise
Solution Approach 1:
The metallic spar serves as an intermediary component between the ceramic airfoil and the metallic turbine case. It transfers loads without requiring direct chemical bonding or intimate contact between ceramic and case materials, thereby eliminating chemical interaction issues and leakage problems that would arise from direct coupling.
Data Source
AI summary
A turbine section for use in gas turbine engine includes a turbine case, a plurality of gas path components, a vane mount unit, and an inner vane static seal assembly. The turbine vane comprising ceramic matrix composite materials to insulate the metallic materials of the vane mount unit.