Turbine Disk Assembly Device Controlled Blade Seating
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of shrouded blades in turbine disks is challenging due to their tendency to twist during seating, requiring manual hammering which is time-consuming and can damage the blades and disk components, and lacks controlled engagement between the blade root and broach slot.
Innovation Solution
A turbine blade assembly device with a vertical pivot bar, adjustable arm, and rotary table that uses a roller assembly and saddle to apply controlled pressure and ensure proper alignment, preventing binding and damage, and featuring a blade force indicator to prevent over-pressurization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual hammering is used to install shrouded blades, then the blades can be seated into the disk, but the blades and disk components may be damaged and the installation is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual hammering mechanical system with a controlled mechanical pressing system. The blade installation device uses a pressing mechanism that applies controlled force through a pressing member to seat the blade root into the broach slot, eliminating the need for hammering while preventing damage to blades and disk components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the installation method from impact loading (hammering) to controlled continuous loading (pressing). The pressing mechanism applies gradual, controlled force that can be monitored and adjusted, changing the physical parameter of force application from impulsive to continuous, thereby preventing damage while maintaining installation effectiveness.
2Ease of operation
If manual hammering is used to install blades, then installation can be completed, but the depth of penetration is not controlled and blade roots can bind or be positioned improperly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms through the controlled pressing system. The pressing member's movement and force application are monitored, providing feedback on the penetration depth and engagement status of the blade root. This allows the operator to know when the blade is properly seated in the broach slot, ensuring precise positioning without over-penetration or binding.
Solution Approach 2:
The pressing mechanism is designed to guide the blade root into the broach slot along a predetermined path before final engagement. The geometry of the pressing member and broach slot work together to pre-align the blade root, ensuring proper orientation and preventing binding before the final seating action occurs.
3Productivity
If shrouded blades are installed traditionally, then the blades can be seated, but the process is time-consuming due to multiple hammering cycles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional hammering mechanical system with a controlled pressing mechanism that can seat multiple blades in a single continuous operation. The device includes a rotating table that positions multiple blades sequentially under the pressing member, allowing continuous installation without the repeated stopping and starting required by manual hammering methods.
Data Source
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AI summary
A bladed disk assembly device (30) has a horizontal adjustable arm (34) and a vertical pivot bar (32) that is perpendicularly attached to a first end of the horizontal arm (34). A roller assembly (56) is attached to a second end of the horizontal arm (34). A rotary table (42) holds a disk (10) that is circumvented by a blade positioning belt (54) around an outer diameter of the turbine disk (10). A saddle (60) is attached to the vertical pivot bar (32) and is positioned beneath the disk (10).