Turbine Coupling Assembly With Hollow-Cap Fastener Cooling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Turbine engine combustion sections experience thermal distress and failure at fastening mechanisms due to direct exposure to hot combustion gases and inadequate cooling, leading to fatigue and wear.
Innovation Solution
A coupling assembly with hollow studs and caps, along with cooling air channels through plates and washers, is used to shield fastening mechanisms from direct heat exposure and provide cooling, reducing thermal gradients and stress concentration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If fastening mechanisms are used to couple hot side and cold side components, then structural integrity and connection strength are improved, but thermal distress and fatigue due to direct heat exposure worsen
Solution Approach 1:
A thermal barrier coating is applied to the fastening mechanisms and surrounding areas, serving as an intermediary layer that blocks direct heat transfer to the metallic fastening components. This coating acts as a thermal mediator, allowing the fasteners to maintain structural integrity while protecting them from thermal distress and fatigue caused by direct exposure to hot combustion gases.
Solution Approach 2:
Cooling air channels are integrated into the coupling assembly structure, directing cooled air flow over and around the fastening mechanisms. This pneumatic cooling system creates a protective air barrier that reduces thermal exposure to the fasteners, thereby decreasing thermal distress and extending component life while maintaining connection strength.
2Reliability
If cooling measures are added to protect fastening mechanisms, then thermal distress resistance is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cooling air channels are merged with the existing coupling assembly structure rather than being added as separate external components. The cooling passages are integrated into the coupling plates and surrounding structures, allowing the cooling function to be achieved while minimizing additional complexity. The thermal barrier coating is also integrated directly onto the fastening mechanisms during manufacturing, combining protection functions without requiring separate complex cooling systems.
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 effectively reduces thermal distress and prolongs the life of combustion section components by preventing direct exposure to hot gases and enhancing durability.
Implementation Method 1
cooling air channels through plates and washers
Implementation Method 2
reducing thermal gradients
Implementation Method 3
shield fastening mechanisms from direct heat exposure
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling assembly for a turbine engine. The coupling assembly includes a cold side component, a hot side component, and a fastening mechanism. The cold side component and the hot side component together at least partially form a combustion chamber. The fastening mechanism couples the hot side component to the cold side component. The fastening mechanism includes a stud disposed through the cold side component and a cap positioned on the stud. The cap defines a hollow interior and includes one or more first cap cooling holes. The one or more first cap cooling holes operably direct cooling air into the hollow interior such that the hollow interior provides a cushion of air between the combustion chamber and the stud.