Modular Stator Ring Segments for Gas Turbine Compressor Bleed
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing compressor bleed configurations in gas turbine engines often cause flow path distortion and structural weakening, are not easily modifiable, and fail to accommodate changes in configuration or operation, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
The method involves forming stator ring passages and radial passages within the compressor casing, allowing for the insertion of stator ring segments with optimally designed bleed slots that reduce fluid flow path distortion and structural weakening, facilitating retrofitting and frequency tuning, while minimizing hardware modifications and associated costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If pre-determined compressor bleed locations are used in known designs, then compressor cooling and surge reduction are achieved, but flow path distortion and structural weakening occur
Solution Approach 1:
The compressor casing is divided into modular stator ring assemblies that can be independently removed and replaced. Each stator ring contains integrated bleed slots that can be positioned optimally without compromising the overall casing structure, as individual rings can be swapped without affecting other sections.
Solution Approach 2:
The bleed slot configuration is made adjustable through interchangeable stator ring assemblies with different slot patterns. This allows the bleed system to be dynamically reconfigured for different operating conditions while maintaining structural integrity through standardized ring designs.
2Productivity
If existing compressor bleed configurations are used, then initial compressor performance is achieved, but modifications to accommodate configuration changes are difficult and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The bleed system is designed with interchangeable stator ring assemblies that can be swapped to change bleed configurations. This dynamic reconfigurability allows the compressor to adapt to different operational requirements without major modifications, reducing costs and improving versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The stator ring assemblies serve multiple functions: they provide structural support for stator blades, contain integrated bleed slots for cooling and surge control, and can be exchanged to adapt to different operational conditions. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate modification systems.
3Reliability
If bleed slots are formed in existing stator rings, then compressor bleed functionality is added, but structural weakening and frequency tuning issues occur
Solution Approach 1:
Rather than forming bleed slots in existing monolithic stator rings, the design segments the casing into separate stator ring assemblies with integrated bleed slots. This segmentation allows optimal slot placement that maintains structural stability while providing effective bleed functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The bleed slots are pre-integrated into the stator ring assembly design before installation, rather than being added later through modification. This preliminary integration ensures that the slots are positioned optimally to maintain structural stability while achieving the desired bleed effectiveness.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of operating a gas turbine engine includes forming at least one stator ring passage within at least a portion of a radially inner surface of a casing. The method also includes providing at least one stator ring segment that is sized to be inserted into the at least one stator ring passage. The method further includes forming at least one radial passage within at least a portion of the at least one stator ring segment such that at least a portion of the at least one radial passage is adjacent to at least one substantially axial stator blade passage.