Gas Turbine Nozzle Valve Cooling Dynamics
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Solution Overview
Problem
In variable cycle gas turbine engines, the cooling of translating structures, such as liners exposed to hot exhaust streams, is inefficient due to continuous cooling fluid supply regardless of positional changes, which can lead to unnecessary fluid usage and potential overheating.
Innovation Solution
A movable structure with a cavity and a valve that adjusts fluid flow rates based on positional changes, providing more cooling fluid when the structure is extended and reducing flow when retracted, ensuring optimal cooling fluid conservation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If continuous cooling fluid supply is used to the liner regardless of translational position, then the liner is adequately cooled when exposed to hot exhaust, but unnecessary fluid is consumed when the liner is not exposed
Solution Approach 1:
The cooling system transitions from a static continuous supply mode to a dynamic variable supply mode. The valve is operably connected to the translational structure and automatically adjusts the cooling fluid flow rate based on the translational position, providing high flow when exposed to hot exhaust and reduced flow when retracted, thereby optimizing both cooling effectiveness and fluid consumption
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where the translational position of the liner structure serves as the input signal that automatically controls the valve position. This closed-loop control ensures the cooling fluid supply rate responds dynamically to the actual thermal exposure conditions of the liner, preventing both overheating and unnecessary fluid consumption
2Loss of substance
If cooling fluid flow rate is reduced to conserve fluid, then unnecessary fluid usage decreases, but the liner may overheat when exposed to hot exhaust streams
Solution Approach 1:
The valve system dynamically adjusts cooling fluid flow rate based on real-time translational position feedback. When the liner is in the exposed position, the valve opens to provide high cooling flow rates ensuring adequate heat dissipation. When the liner is retracted and not exposed to hot exhaust, the valve reduces or stops flow to conserve cooling fluid, thus maintaining reliability only when necessary
Solution Approach 2:
The automatic linkage between the translational structure and valve creates a feedback control system that monitors liner exposure status and adjusts cooling flow accordingly. This ensures cooling reliability is maintained during high-thermal-load conditions while minimizing fluid consumption during low-demand periods
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
This solution enhances cooling efficiency by dynamically adjusting cooling fluid supply to match the structural position, reducing unnecessary fluid usage and maintaining effective cooling of the liner surface, thereby improving engine performance and fuel efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
A valve selectively controls fluid flow from a cooling source to the cavity
Implementation Method 2
A valve selectively controls fluid flow from a cooling source to the cavity. The valve is configured to move between first and second fluid flow positions
Data Source
AI summary
A cooling system for a gas turbine engine includes a first structure movable relative to a second structure. The first structure has a cavity. A valve selectively controls fluid flow from a cooling source to the cavity. A valve is configured to move between first and second fluid flow positions in response to movement of the first structure. The first fluid flow position provides a greater amount of cooling fluid from the cooling source to the cavity than in the second fluid flow position.