Turbomachine Separator De-icing Device with Integrated Air Duct
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Solution Overview
Problem
Small turbomachine separators face challenges in de-icing due to limited space for air inlet ducts, resulting in reduced de-icing efficiency as the dimensions of the separators decrease, as existing solutions require separate components for centring and air injection, occupying valuable space.
Innovation Solution
A de-icing device that integrates air injection and centring functions into a single component, using an internal air supply duct with a flexible connection and bridge clamp design, eliminating the need for a separate centring diameter and allowing larger air volumes to be injected into the separator.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate centring diameter and air inlet duct are used in the separator, then the separator can be properly centred and air can be injected for de-icing, but the available space for air inlet duct is limited when separator dimensions are reduced, reducing de-icing efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the centring diameter and air inlet duct into a single integrated component. The air inlet duct is mounted directly on the centring diameter, eliminating the need for separate components and maximizing the use of limited space within the separator while maintaining both centring and de-icing functions
Solution Approach 2:
The centring diameter is designed to serve dual purposes: it provides the mechanical centring function and simultaneously acts as the mounting structure for the air inlet duct. This multi-functional design allows the separator to maintain proper centring while enabling effective air injection for de-icing, even in reduced-size separators
2Length of moving object
If the separator dimensions are reduced, then the turbomachine size is reduced, but the quantity of air that can be injected into the separator is limited, reducing de-icing efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The air inlet duct is designed with flexible connection features including a bellows section that allows the duct to expand and contract. This dynamic design enables the duct to maintain its structural integrity while accommodating variations in air volume requirements and thermal expansion, ensuring consistent de-icing performance across different separator sizes
3Ease of manufacture
If multiple separate components are used for centring and air injection, then each component can be optimized for its specific function, but the number of assembly components increases and space is consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the air inlet duct mounting structure directly onto the centring diameter, reducing the total number of components. The air inlet duct is secured using clamp elements that attach to the centring diameter itself, eliminating the need for separate mounting brackets or additional fastening components
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 enables efficient de-icing of smaller turbomachine separators by simultaneously centring and injecting air, increasing the volume of air that can be conveyed, thereby enhancing de-icing efficiency and reducing the number of assembly components.
Implementation Method 1
A solution habitually used to limit the consequences of ice, and to de-ice the parts, consists in using a system involving heating using the hot air which is drawn from the turbomachine' compressor
Implementation Method 2
enabling a portion of the forces of the parts which are deformed under the effect of thermal expansion to be absorbed
Data Source
AI summary
A turbomachine separator including a device for de-icing the turbomachine separator, and a distribution element, wherein the separator is formed by an inner ferrule and an outer ferrule, wherein the inner ferrule is fitted with a first mounting flange and a second mounting flange, the de-icing device including an internal air supply duct, able to inject air into the separator, wherein the internal supply duct is connected to an air inlet, wherein the air inlet forms a projection external to the de-icing device, allowing a flexible connection with a tube of the distribution element for conveying hot air, a first fastener constructed and arranged to be attached to the first mounting flange; and a second fastener constructed and arranged to be attached to the second mounting flange.