Cooling Panel Segment With Integrated Channel Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cooling systems for turbomachine casing structures are inefficient and require multiple parts and complex mounting processes for fluid distribution, leading to increased mechanical stress and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A panel segment comprising an inner and outer sheet of sheet metal with integrated circumferential cooling channels and a distributor volume, allowing for direct fluid distribution through a continuous circumferential channel without separate pipes, connected via flexible or sliding interfaces for reduced mechanical stress and simplified assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If separate circumferential pipes are mounted onto the panel segment for fluid distribution, then the cooling fluid distribution can be achieved, but the number of parts and assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The circumferential distribution channel is integrated directly into the panel segment structure, merging the fluid distribution function with the panel body. This eliminates the need for separate circumferential pipes and reduces assembly complexity by combining multiple components into a single integrated part.
Solution Approach 2:
The panel segment serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, defines cooling channels, and integrates the circumferential distribution channel. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed and simplifies the overall assembly.
2Ease of operation
If multiple separate components are used for cooling channels and fluid distribution, then the cooling function can be implemented, but the assembly effort and mechanical stress increase
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the circumferential distribution channel into the panel segment, the patent reduces the number of connection points and interfaces between components. This minimizes mechanical stress at joints and simplifies assembly operations.
3Device complexity
If a continuous circumferential channel is implemented without separate pipes, then the number of parts is reduced, but the integration complexity of the panel segment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cooling system is divided into modular panel segments, each containing integrated cooling channels and distribution channels. This segmentation allows for simplified manufacturing of individual modules that can be assembled together, reducing overall integration complexity.
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 solution reduces the number of parts and assembly effort, minimizing mechanical stress and enhancing the efficiency of cooling fluid distribution, thereby extending the range of materials usable for the casing structure.
Implementation Method 1
The ejected cooling fluid can provide an impingement cooling to the casing structure arranged radially inside of the panel segment or cooling panel
Implementation Method 2
the circumferential distribution channel is fluidically connected to the axial distributor volume which is also defined in the panel segment
Data Source
AI summary
A cooling panel for a casing structure of a turbomachine, including: an inner sheet made of sheet metal; and an outer sheet made of sheet metal; the outer sheet being arranged radially outside of the inner sheet and being materially connected to the inner sheet, wherein circumferential cooling channels are defined between the inner sheet and the outer sheet, each circumferential cooling channel being provided with a row of cooling holes, configured to eject cooling fluid radially inwards, the panel segment further defining an axial distributor volume, configured to supply the circumferential cooling channels with the cooling fluid. A circumferential distribution channel is in fluid communication with the axial distributor volume and has a first interface at the first end and a second interface at the second end, the first interface and the second interface configured to be connected to a respective neighboring panel segment.