Gas Turbine Fuel Manifold Fitting with Integral Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity and space constraints of fuel manifold systems in gas turbine engines pose challenges in accommodating thermal expansion and efficient mounting of multiple fuel manifolds within a compact packaging space.
Innovation Solution
A manifold fitting with a manifold tee design that includes a support structure with a support tab and P-clamp system, allowing for the secure attachment and radial displacement of primary and secondary manifold tubes, enabling the manifolds to accommodate thermal expansion and maintain structural integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple fuel manifolds are mounted around the diffuser case to accommodate thermal expansion, then the fuel manifold system can handle thermal expansion, but the system complexity increases and packaging space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple mounting functions into a single integrated manifold fitting structure. The fitting integrates a manifold body with multiple ports, a support structure with bearing, and a P-clamp mechanism into one unified component that can accommodate both primary and secondary manifolds while allowing thermal expansion through the bearing-supported mounting structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold fitting is designed as a universal mounting structure that can accommodate multiple different types of manifolds (primary and secondary) with different configurations. The bearing-supported mounting allows universal accommodation of thermal expansion for any manifold connected to the fitting, making the structure multi-functional and adaptable to various manifold arrangements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple fuel manifolds are mounted around the diffuser case, then thermal expansion can be accommodated, but the axial and radial packaging space increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested arrangement where the P-clamp is positioned to embrace the manifold tube, and the support structure with bearing is integrated within the overall fitting assembly. This nesting allows multiple manifold connections to be arranged in a compact configuration around the diffuser case, minimizing the axial and radial space required while still accommodating thermal expansion movements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If numerous valves, fuel injectors, fuel manifolds, fittings, conduits, pigtail supply assemblies, mounts and other components are included, then complete fuel delivery functionality is achieved, but the system becomes relatively complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the fuel manifold system into modular components: the manifold fitting with integrated support and P-clamp, the bearing assembly, and the manifold tubes. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while being easily assembled and disassembled, reducing overall system complexity despite maintaining complete fuel delivery functionality with multiple valves, injectors, and conduits.
Data Source
AI summary
A manifold fitting for a gas turbine engine includes a manifold tee including a first manifold port, a second manifold port and a pigtail port. A support extends from the manifold tee. The support defines a support aperture along a mount axis. A support tab extends from the support.