Combustor End Cover Assembly Using Axial Cam Compression
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for assembling combustor end covers require multiple fasteners, increasing the number of parts, machining time, and surface area usage, which complicates the assembly and testing process.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing a connector that engages with an insert inside the end cover and can be moved axially to compress the insert against the end cover, reducing the need for multiple fasteners and allowing for a more uniform compressive force, using a cam or nut mechanism for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If multiple smaller fasteners are used around the circumference of the insert, then a relatively consistent force is applied to each seal, but the number of parts, machining, and assembly time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple fastening functions into a single clamp assembly with a circumferential compression mechanism. Instead of using multiple discrete fasteners distributed around the insert, the invention employs one clamp that applies uniform circumferential pressure around the entire perimeter of the insert, thereby consolidating multiple parts into a single integrated component while maintaining consistent force distribution to all seals.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it secures the insert to the end cover, applies uniform compressive force to the seals, and provides a single-point attachment mechanism. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate fasteners for each sealing interface, reducing overall part count while achieving the same sealing performance.
2Reliability
If multiple fasteners are used to attach the insert to the end cover, then the assembly is securely held together, but the assembly time and labor increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple fastening operations into a single clamping action. The clamp assembly with its circumferential compression mechanism allows the installer to secure the entire insert and multiple seals in one operation, rather than sequentially tightening multiple individual fasteners. This significantly reduces assembly time while maintaining secure attachment through uniform circumferential pressure.
3Strength
If multiple fasteners are used, then adequate clamping force is distributed to seals, but the required surface area on the end cover increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple clamping points into a single circumferential clamping mechanism. The clamp wraps around the insert and applies compression force uniformly along the entire circumference, eliminating the need for multiple discrete fastener holes distributed across the end cover surface. This reduces the total surface area required on the end cover while maintaining adequate clamping force through the distributed circumferential pressure.
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 approach simplifies the assembly process, reduces the number of parts and machining required, provides consistent seal performance, and allows for re-use, thereby saving time and labor while minimizing the end cover's surface area usage.
Implementation Method 1
At least one of a cam or a nut is engaged with the connector between the second end and the end cover
Implementation Method 2
At least one of a cam or a nut is engaged with the connector between the second end and the end cover
Data Source
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AI summary
A system 50 for assembling an end cover 18 of a combustor 10 includes a connector 52 and structure for engaging the connector 52 to an insert 42 positioned at least partially inside the end cover 18. The system 50 also includes structure 66 for moving the connector 52 axially with respect to the end cover 18. A method for assembling an end cover 18 of a combustor 10 includes inserting a connector 52 through at least a portion of the end cover 18 and an insert 42 positioned at least partially inside the end cover 18. The method further includes engaging the connector 52 with the insert 42 and moving the connector 52 axially with respect to the end cover 18 to compress the insert 42 against the end cover 18.