Ceramic Matrix Composite Vane Metallic Reinforcement Platform
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Solution Overview
Problem
Gas turbine engine vanes made from ceramic matrix composites face challenges due to high temperature exposure and low strength, leading to potential cracking and stress concentrations from pressure gradients, which can result in structural failure and reduced engine efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A turbine vane assembly comprising a ceramic matrix composite vane, a metallic support strut, and a metallic reinforcement platform, where the reinforcement platform reduces force loads on the vane by creating an intermediate pressure region and transferring loads to the support strut, thereby mitigating stress on the ceramic vane and maintaining efficient sealing across pressure gradients.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If ceramic matrix composite materials are used for turbine vanes to withstand high temperatures, then temperature resistance is improved, but structural strength and stress resistance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses a composite structure combining ceramic matrix composite vane with a metallic reinforcement platform and support strut. The ceramic vane provides high-temperature resistance while the metallic components provide structural strength, creating a hybrid composite system that leverages the advantages of both material types.
Solution Approach 2:
The vane is divided into functional segments: the ceramic matrix composite vane handles thermal exposure while the metallic reinforcement platform and support strut handle mechanical loading. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function.
2Weight of moving object
If ceramic matrix composite vanes are used to reduce weight, then weight is reduced, but susceptibility to cracking and stress concentrations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hybrid composite structure combines lightweight ceramic matrix composite with stronger metallic reinforcement, maintaining weight advantages while improving crack resistance through the metallic support components.
Solution Approach 2:
The metallic reinforcement platform and support strut are positioned beforehand to provide structural support and cushioning, preventing stress concentrations and cracking in the ceramic vane before they can occur during operation.
3Ease of manufacture
If the vane structure is simplified to reduce manufacturing complexity, then ease of manufacture is improved, but ability to withstand pressure gradients and force loads deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The vane is segmented into modular components (ceramic vane, reinforcement platform, support strut) that can be manufactured separately using optimized processes for each material, then assembled. This reduces manufacturing complexity while maintaining structural integrity.
Data Source
AI summary
A turbine vane assembly adapted for use in a gas turbine engine includes an aerofoil configured to interact with gases flowing through the gas turbine engine along a gas path, an outer platform that defines an outer boundary of a gas path, and an inner platform that defines an inner boundary of the gas path.