Compressor Stator Vane Control via Segmented Actuators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for gas turbines struggle to precisely position stator vanes across different stages due to varying lengths and widths, leading to difficulties in adjusting angles for optimal performance during startup, shutdown, and varying load conditions.
Innovation Solution
A system with separate actuators for each stage of stator vanes allows independent adjustment of their positions, using mechanical or electromechanical devices like actuators, threaded engagements, or ratchet and pawl assemblies to synchronize movement through unison rings and vane arms, enabling precise control of stator vane angles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single actuator is used to control multiple stages of stator vanes, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to cumulative tolerances and varying travel lengths
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the stator vane control system into separate actuators for each stage, with each actuator independently controlling its corresponding stage's stator vanes. This segmentation eliminates the cumulative tolerance issues that arise when using a single actuator for multiple stages, as each actuator only needs to accommodate the travel requirements of its specific stage rather than accommodating all stages combined.
2Power
If stator vanes are aligned closer to the axial centerline, then power output increases during heavy demand, but compressor stability decreases and rotating stall occurs more easily
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control of stator vane angles through independent actuators for each stage, allowing the system to adaptively adjust vane positions based on operating conditions. During normal operation, vanes can be positioned to maximize power output, while during startup or shutdown, the system can dynamically reposition vanes to prevent rotating stall and maintain stability.
3Stability of the object's composition
If stator vanes are aligned further from the axial centerline, then compressor stability improves at lower speeds, but power output decreases during heavy demand
Solution Approach 1:
The independent actuator system enables dynamic adjustment of stator vane angles according to operating conditions. During startup or shutdown operations, vanes can be positioned further from the axial centerline to prevent rotating stall and ensure stability. During heavy demand, the system can dynamically reposition vanes closer to the axial centerline to maximize power output, thus resolving the trade-off between stability and power.
Data Source
AI summary
A compressor includes a first stage of stator vanes having a first position and a second group of stator vanes arranged in two or more stages downstream from the first stage of stator vanes, each stage having a respective second position. A first actuator is engaged with the first stage of stator vanes, and a second actuator is engaged with a bar connecting the second group of stator vanes. A method for operating a compressor includes adjusting a first position of a first plurality of stator vanes and adjusting the respective second positions of a second group of stator vanes separately from the first position of the first stage of stator vanes.