Segmented Mid-Turbine Frame Reducing Aerodynamic Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional gas turbine engines face inefficiencies in the transition of hot gases from high pressure turbines to low pressure turbines, particularly in the forward stages of the low pressure turbine, where the expansion of gases is not optimized for maximum efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A mid-turbine frame is introduced, comprising a duct with an outer and inner flowpath ring, where the inner flowpath ring is formed by segments with tenons and vanes that extend radially outward, and sealed together using a seal structure, to facilitate the expansion of hot gases from the high pressure turbine to the low pressure turbine, minimizing aerodynamic resistance and protecting sensitive components from high temperatures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a conventional single-piece flowpath ring is used, then the structure is simple to manufacture, but the aerodynamic efficiency of gas expansion is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The flowpath ring is divided into multiple segments that can be manufactured separately and then assembled together. This segmentation allows each segment to be optimized for aerodynamic performance while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through modular production and assembly processes.
2Strength
If the inner flowpath ring is made as a single unit, then structural integrity is maintained, but aerodynamic resistance increases
Solution Approach 1:
The inner flowpath ring is segmented into multiple sections with optimized aerodynamic surfaces. The segments are connected through specialized joint structures that maintain structural integrity while minimizing aerodynamic disruption. The segmented design allows for smoother gas flow paths and reduced turbulence compared to a conventional single-piece design.
Solution Approach 2:
The segments are pre-formed with optimized aerodynamic surfaces and then assembled together. This preliminary formation of each segment allows for precise aerodynamic optimization before final assembly, ensuring minimal aerodynamic resistance while maintaining structural strength through the assembled configuration.
3Strength
If tenons are extended axially, then structural connection is strengthened, but aerodynamic resistance increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tenons are designed with varying axial extensions at different locations around the flowpath ring. This local variation allows the connection strength to be optimized at specific critical joints while minimizing the axial extension in areas where it would create excessive aerodynamic resistance. The non-uniform tenon design balances structural requirements with aerodynamic performance.
Data Source
AI summary
A mid-turbine frame for a gas turbine engine ducts gases between a high pressure turbine and a low pressure turbine. The mid-turbine frame may include an outer flowpath ring, an inner flowpath ring, and a plurality of vanes extending therebetween. The outer flowpath ring comprises a unitary structure, while the inner flowpath ring and the plurality of vanes comprises a plurality of segments.