Turbo Machine Combustor Assembly Separable Interface Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing combustor assembly manufacturing processes for turbo machines are costly and complex, and result in partial or complete destruction of components during disassembly for repair or refurbishment.
Innovation Solution
The combustor assembly includes separable portions such as a dome assembly and a deflector assembly, coupled via a fitted interface that can be a press fit, interference fit, snap fit, or threaded fit, allowing for disassembly without damaging other components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If welds or brazes are used to assemble combustor components, then the structural strength and sealing are improved, but the complexity and cost of manufacturing increase, and disassembly destroys components
Solution Approach 1:
The combustor assembly is divided into separate components (dome assembly, deflector assembly, mixer assembly) that can be independently manufactured and assembled through simple mechanical interfaces rather than permanent welding, allowing for easy disassembly and repair without destroying components
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the thermal bonding processes (welding, brazing) with simple mechanical interfaces such as press fits, interference fits, snap fits, and threaded connections, eliminating the need for complex welding procedures while maintaining structural integrity and enabling non-destructive disassembly
2Strength
If welds or brazes are used to assemble combustor components, then the structural strength is improved, but the cost of manufacturing and repair increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the combustor into separable assemblies with standardized mechanical interfaces, the patent enables modular manufacturing and repair, reducing overall manufacturing costs through simplified processes and enabling cost-effective replacement of individual components without requiring expensive welding operations
Solution Approach 2:
Replacing welding and brazing with simple mechanical connections (press fits, threaded connections, snap fits) significantly reduces manufacturing costs by eliminating the need for specialized welding equipment, skilled welders, and complex post-processing operations
3Strength
If welds or brazes are used to assemble combustor components, then the structural strength is improved, but the ease of repair deteriorates due to component destruction during disassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The combustor is segmented into independently replaceable assemblies (dome, deflector, mixer) connected by simple mechanical interfaces, allowing technicians to access and replace individual components such as the deflector without destroying other components like the dome or mixer
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces permanent welding connections with reversible mechanical connections that allow non-destructive disassembly, enabling easy repair and maintenance by allowing components to be removed and replaced without causing damage to adjacent components
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of a combustor assembly for a turbine engine are generally provided. The combustor assembly includes a first separable portion defining a dome assembly, and a second separable portion defining a deflector assembly. The first separable portion and the second separable portion are coupled together at a fitted interface.