Integrated Compressor Wash Nozzle in Gas Turbine Strut
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing compressor wash systems for gas turbine engines, such as wash rings, are cumbersome, costly, and prone to damage, requiring complex installation and storage, and involve additional fixtures that increase maintenance time and weight.
Innovation Solution
A compressor wash nozzle integrated into the inlet case strut of a gas turbine engine, featuring a fluid passage and nozzle for injecting pressurized wash/rinse fluid into the incoming air flow, allowing for direct and efficient cleaning of compressor rotor blades without additional fixtures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a wash ring is used to clean the compressor, then the compressor can be washed, but the device becomes complicated and requires time-consuming installation
Solution Approach 1:
The wash nozzle is integrated directly into the inlet case strut structure, merging the cleaning function with the existing structural component. This eliminates the need for separate wash rings and their complex installation, while maintaining effective compressor cleaning capability.
2Reliability
If a wash ring is used to clean the compressor, then the compressor can be washed, but the cost of cleansing increases
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the wash nozzle into the inlet case strut, the patent eliminates the need for separate wash ring components and their associated manufacturing and installation costs. The cleaning function is incorporated into the existing structure, reducing overall system cost.
3Reliability
If a wash ring is used to clean the compressor, then the compressor can be washed, but the wash ring is susceptible to damage and requires secured storage
Solution Approach 1:
The wash nozzle is permanently integrated into the inlet case strut, eliminating the need for removable wash rings that are susceptible to damage during handling and storage. The integrated design ensures durability while maintaining cleaning functionality.
4Reliability
If additional fixtures are added to the engine for washing, then the compressor can be washed, but the weight of the engine increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wash nozzle is integrated into the existing inlet case strut structure, eliminating the need for additional separate fixtures. This integration adds minimal weight compared to installing complete wash ring assemblies with all their mounting hardware and support structures.
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 solution simplifies the cleaning process, reduces maintenance costs and weight, and enables quick connection of wash fluid, enhancing the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of compressor washing.
Implementation Method 1
a nozzle integrated to said inlet case strut and in fluid flow communication with said fluid passage and disposed for discharging a pressurized wash/rinse fluid into incoming air flowing through the inlet gas path
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a method for cleaning the compressor of a gas turbine engine. The method comprises providing a fluid passage in the inlet case strut with a nozzle communicating with the fluid passage and the inlet gas path. The fluid passage has a fluid connector for connecting wash/rinse fluid under pressure to the fluid passage. The method further comprises motoring the gas turbine engine, and injecting, through the nozzle, the wash/rinse fluid into the inlet gas path to mix with an incoming flow of air and flow into compressor rotor blades of the compressor.