Split Fuel Control Module for Gas Turbine Retrofit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gas turbine engine fuel control systems require complex and invasive installation processes, which can be costly and time-consuming, especially when upgrading or retrofitting existing systems, as they often necessitate the removal and reinstallation of the engine.
Innovation Solution
A split fuel control module is introduced, comprising two frame units that can be independently transported and assembled into a single module, allowing for installation without removing the gas turbine engine, utilizing a base plate and coordinated frame unit interfaces to facilitate alignment and coupling of fuel and air paths, enabling easier retrofitting and upgrading.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional fuel control module is installed in a gas turbine engine, then the engine can operate with proper fuel control, but the installation process becomes complex and invasive requiring removal and reinstallation of the engine
Solution Approach 1:
The fuel control module is divided into two separate frame units (first frame unit and second frame unit) that can be independently installed and then coupled together. This segmentation allows the module to be installed without removing the gas turbine engine, as each frame unit can be accessed and installed separately through the engine structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the gas turbine engine is removed for fuel control system upgrading, then complete system replacement is possible, but installation time and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The base plate is pre-installed on the gas turbine engine before the frame units are attached. This preliminary action provides ready-made mounting surfaces and alignment features, enabling the frame units to be quickly coupled to the engine without requiring removal. The base plate serves as a prepared foundation that facilitates rapid installation of the fuel control module components.
3Volume of moving object
If a single integrated fuel control module is used, then the system is compact, but installation requires invasive procedures and engine removal
Solution Approach 1:
The compact fuel control module is segmented into two frame units that can be independently maneuvered into position and then coupled together. This segmentation maintains the compact overall size of the module while enabling easier installation, as each smaller frame unit can be accessed and installed separately without requiring complete engine removal or invasive procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The base plate acts as an intermediary component between the gas turbine engine and the frame units. It provides a stable mounting foundation and includes alignment features that guide the frame units into correct positions, facilitating easy assembly without requiring engine removal while maintaining the compact configuration of the overall module.
Data Source
AI summary
A split fuel control module for a gas turbine engine and method of installation. The split fuel control module includes a first frame unit, a second frame unit, a segmented fuel path, and a distributed fuel controller. The first frame unit and the second frame unit are joined together at a frame unit interface. The segmented fuel path includes an upstream fuel interface fixed to the first frame unit and a downstream fuel interface fixed to the second frame unit and detachably coupled to the upstream fuel interface at the frame unit interface. A first portion of the distributed fuel controller is fixed to the first frame unit, and a second portion of the distributed fuel controller is fixed to the second frame unit.