Modular Heat Shield Segments for Gas Turbine Fuel Manifolds
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing heat shields for gas turbine engine manifold rings are limited by material selection due to welding requirements, suffer from high hoop and vibration stresses, and are difficult to repair, with manufacturing processes resulting in significant material waste.
Innovation Solution
A modular heat shield design comprising detachable segments retained by removable fasteners, allowing for improved thermal protection, reduced stress, and simplified assembly, while minimizing material waste and enabling a wider selection of materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the heat shield is permanently attached to the manifold ring through welded or brazed joints, then the heat shield provides continuous thermal protection, but the material selection is limited and repairs are impaired
Solution Approach 1:
The heat shield is divided into multiple segments that can be independently attached to the manifold ring. Each segment can be secured separately through mechanical means such as clips, tabs, or fasteners, allowing the heat shield to be assembled from discrete portions rather than as a single welded structure. This segmentation enables greater material selection flexibility while maintaining continuous thermal protection coverage.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the heat shield is permanently attached through welded or brazed joints, then the heat shield provides structural stability, but repairs to the heat shield or manifold assembly are impaired
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system transitions from a static permanent weld to a dynamic reversible connection. Mechanical fasteners, clips, or interlocking features allow the heat shield segments to be securely attached during operation while enabling easy removal and replacement for repairs or maintenance without permanent structural commitment.
3Productivity
If the heat shield is manufactured through stamping operation of sheet metal material, then the heat shield can be produced efficiently, but significant waste of metal material occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The heat shield is divided into multiple segments that can be manufactured separately using more material-efficient processes such as extrusion or forming. This segmentation allows each segment to be produced with minimal material waste, and the segments are then assembled to form the complete heat shield, reducing overall material waste compared to traditional stamping operations.
Data Source
AI summary
A fuel injection system for a gas turbine engine having a manifold ring, a plurality of spray tip assemblies and a heat shield including at least two heat shield segments cooperating to at least substantially surround a cross-section of the manifold ring around a circumference of the manifold ring, and detachably retained around the manifold ring through a plurality of removable fasteners.