Vane Platform Cooling System Combustor Interface Oxidation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The interface between the downstream edge of a combustor and the upstream edge of the first vane stage of a high-pressure turbine in gas turbine engines experiences premature oxidation, leading to heat damage and reduced component lifespan.
Innovation Solution
A vane platform cooling system is implemented, featuring an orifice at the forward end of the vane platform, connected by a channel with specific angular and cross-sectional area configurations, and incorporating airflow structures such as teardrop, airfoil, or racetrack shapes to direct cooling air effectively, along with a combustor shell and panel design that includes angled surfaces and standoffs to enhance airflow distribution and minimize heat exposure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If the vane platform is exposed to hot combustion gases, then the engine can operate, but the vane platform experiences premature oxidation and heat damage
Solution Approach 1:
Cooling air is supplied to the vane platform before it is exposed to hot combustion gases, creating a protective air film in advance. The cooling system is pre-configured with channels and apertures that distribute cooling air across the platform surface, establishing thermal protection before the harmful thermal environment is encountered during engine operation.
Solution Approach 2:
A film of cooling air acts as an intermediary between the hot combustion gases and the vane platform. This air film serves as a thermal barrier that prevents direct contact between the hot gases and the metal platform, reducing heat transfer and oxidation. The cooling air is introduced through strategically positioned apertures and channels to create this protective intermediate layer.
2Reliability
If cooling air is supplied to protect the vane platform, then oxidation and heat damage are reduced, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cooling system is merged with the vane platform structure itself. Cooling channels and apertures are integrated directly into the platform, eliminating the need for separate external cooling components. The platform serves dual functions as both a structural support element and a cooling distribution system, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining effective protection.
Solution Approach 2:
Cooling apertures and channels are strategically positioned at specific locations on the vane platform where heat exposure and oxidation risk are highest. The cooling system provides localized protection rather than uniform cooling across the entire platform, optimizing the balance between protection effectiveness and system simplicity by concentrating resources where they are most needed.
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 cooling system effectively protects the vane stage from hot combustion gases by creating a protective air film, reducing oxidation and heat damage, thereby extending component life and maintaining engine efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
A first channel may be formed through the vane platform and may connect the orifice and the first aperture... air exits the first aperture at a first angle of less than 20° relative to the surface of the vane platform
Implementation Method 2
The cooling system effectively protects the vane stage from hot combustion gases by creating a protective air film, reducing oxidation and heat damage
Data Source
AI summary
A vane platform cooling system may comprise a combustor shell and a combustor panel. A cavity may be located between the combustor shell and the combustor panel. A surface of the cavity may be angled toward the combustor shell. An orifice may be formed in a vane platform located aft of the combustor panel. A standoff located in the cavity may direct air toward the vane platform. An aperture may be formed in a surface of the vane platform. A channel formed through the vane platform may connect the orifice and aperture.