Composite Turbine Vane Cavity Reinforcement for Torsion Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Turbomachine blades made of composite materials with internal cavities face issues such as low mechanical strength, resonance due to thin skins, and reduced resistance to torsion and aerodynamic forces, particularly in long blades with large cavities.
Innovation Solution
A method for manufacturing turbomachine blades with a reinforced internal cavity using a core comprising a reinforcing structure and a watertight envelope, filled with an elastomeric material, which includes lattice, shell-shaped, or solid body support elements strategically positioned to enhance mechanical strength and dampen vibrations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If a cavity is created inside the blade to reduce mass, then the blade weight decreases, but the mechanical strength and resistance to torsion decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by placing reinforcing structures (lattice work, struts, or ribs) only in specific locations within the cavity where mechanical strength is needed, rather than filling the entire cavity. This allows the blade to maintain reduced mass while having localized reinforcement at critical areas to resist torsion and bending forces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses composite materials by combining the lightweight cavity structure with reinforcing elements made of different materials (metal, composite, or rigid foam) to create a hybrid structure that leverages the advantages of each material - the lightweight composite skin and the stronger reinforcing core structures.
2Weight of moving object
If thin composite material skins are used in hollow blades, then the mass is reduced, but the natural vibration modes resonate with engine operating modes
Solution Approach 1:
The reinforcing structures are strategically positioned within the cavity to provide local stiffness enhancement at critical vibration zones without adding excessive mass throughout the entire blade structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements nesting by placing reinforcing structures (lattice work, struts, or ribs) inside the hollow cavity of the blade, creating a nested configuration where the inner reinforcing structure supports the outer thin composite skin, thereby reducing vibration while maintaining low mass.
3Weight of moving object
If a large cavity is created inside long blades, then mass is reduced, but resistance to torsion and aerodynamic forces is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by implementing reinforcing structures (such as longitudinal struts or ribs) specifically positioned to resist torsional forces and aerodynamic loads, concentrating material where mechanical forces are highest while keeping other areas lightweight.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent addresses torsion resistance by adding three-dimensional reinforcing elements (lattice work, struts, or ribs) within the cavity, transforming the two-dimensional thin skin structure into a three-dimensional load-bearing framework that effectively resists torsional moments.
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
The solution provides blades with enhanced mechanical strength, reduced risk of skin vibration, and effective stress damping while maintaining a lightweight design, thus improving performance and reducing resonance issues.
Implementation Method 1
the presence of the elastomeric material inside the blade allows for the damping of mechanical stresses
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for manufacturing a turbine engine part made of composite material and having a cavity, the method comprising at least: - producing a core (1) having the shape of the cavity of the vane to be manufactured, said core comprising a reinforcing structure (11) occupying only a portion of the volume of the core, the core further comprising a sealed envelope (10) defining the outer surface of said core; and - forming a skin of composite material around the core (1).