Gas Turbine Combustor Dome Deflector Snap-Fit Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing dome-deflector structures in gas turbine engines face issues with bolted joints breaking down due to high heat, leading to costly and time-consuming replacements.
Innovation Solution
A dome-deflector structure with a compliant snap-fit connection between the deflector and the dome structure, eliminating the need for direct bolted joints and allowing for better thermal expansion accommodation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If bolted joints are used to connect the deflector to the dome structure, then the connection is strong and stable, but the bolted joints break down due to high heat over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the connection method from rigid bolted joints to a compliant snap-fit connection that accommodates thermal expansion. The deflector is designed with compliance features allowing it to expand and contract with temperature changes without compromising the connection integrity, thus preventing breakdown under high heat conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic compliance into the connection system. The deflector incorporates flexible elements and compliant mounting features that allow movement and adjustment during thermal cycles, enabling the connection to adapt to changing dimensions rather than remaining rigid and eventually failing.
2Reliability
If separate deflector and dome structure with bolted joints are used, then protection from heat is provided, but replacement is costly and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent maintains the segmented design with separate deflector and dome structure, allowing the deflector to be independently replaced without removing the entire combustor assembly. The snap-fit connection enables quick detachment and reattachment, significantly reducing replacement time while preserving the heat protection function.
Solution Approach 2:
The compliant snap-fit connection is pre-designed to accommodate thermal expansion differences between the deflector and dome structure. This preliminary design consideration prevents connection failure during operation and allows for maintenance without emergency repairs or complex disassembly procedures.
3Stability of the object's composition
If rigid connection between deflector and dome structure is used, then structural stability is maintained, but thermal expansion accommodation is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the connection from rigid to compliant, allowing the deflector to change its position and orientation slightly during thermal expansion. The snap-fit connection includes compliance features that permit controlled movement while maintaining overall structural stability and proper alignment.
Solution Approach 2:
The snap-fit connection acts as an intermediary element between the deflector and dome structure. It provides a compliant interface that mediates the thermal expansion differences between the two components, allowing them to expand at different rates while maintaining a stable connected assembly.
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
The snap-fit connection enhances the reliability of the deflector by preventing breakdowns and reduces the need for replacements, while also providing better flexibility to accommodate thermal expansion.
Implementation Method 1
a snap-fit connection between the deflector and the dome structure, eliminating the need for direct bolted joints and allowing for better thermal expansion accommodation
Data Source
AI summary
A combustor for a gas turbine includes a dome structure including a dome-side swirler opening therethrough, and a deflector connected to the dome structure. The deflector includes a deflector-side swirler opening therethrough and a deflector-dome connecting member arranged at the deflector-side swirler opening. The deflector-dome connecting member is connected with the dome-side swirler opening via a snap-fit type connection.