US20150337687A1 - Split cast vane fairing - Google Patents
Split cast vane fairing Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20150337687A1 US20150337687A1 US14/758,377 US201314758377A US2015337687A1 US 20150337687 A1 US20150337687 A1 US 20150337687A1 US 201314758377 A US201314758377 A US 201314758377A US 2015337687 A1 US2015337687 A1 US 2015337687A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- fairing
- upstream
- section
- turbine exhaust
- exhaust case
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F01—MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; ENGINE PLANTS IN GENERAL; STEAM ENGINES
- F01D—NON-POSITIVE DISPLACEMENT MACHINES OR ENGINES, e.g. STEAM TURBINES
- F01D25/00—Component parts, details, or accessories, not provided for in, or of interest apart from, other groups
- F01D25/30—Exhaust heads, chambers, or the like
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F01—MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; ENGINE PLANTS IN GENERAL; STEAM ENGINES
- F01D—NON-POSITIVE DISPLACEMENT MACHINES OR ENGINES, e.g. STEAM TURBINES
- F01D25/00—Component parts, details, or accessories, not provided for in, or of interest apart from, other groups
- F01D25/08—Cooling; Heating; Heat-insulation
- F01D25/10—Heating, e.g. warming-up before starting
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F01—MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; ENGINE PLANTS IN GENERAL; STEAM ENGINES
- F01D—NON-POSITIVE DISPLACEMENT MACHINES OR ENGINES, e.g. STEAM TURBINES
- F01D25/00—Component parts, details, or accessories, not provided for in, or of interest apart from, other groups
- F01D25/08—Cooling; Heating; Heat-insulation
- F01D25/14—Casings modified therefor
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F01—MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; ENGINE PLANTS IN GENERAL; STEAM ENGINES
- F01D—NON-POSITIVE DISPLACEMENT MACHINES OR ENGINES, e.g. STEAM TURBINES
- F01D25/00—Component parts, details, or accessories, not provided for in, or of interest apart from, other groups
- F01D25/16—Arrangement of bearings; Supporting or mounting bearings in casings
- F01D25/162—Bearing supports
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F01—MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; ENGINE PLANTS IN GENERAL; STEAM ENGINES
- F01D—NON-POSITIVE DISPLACEMENT MACHINES OR ENGINES, e.g. STEAM TURBINES
- F01D25/00—Component parts, details, or accessories, not provided for in, or of interest apart from, other groups
- F01D25/24—Casings; Casing parts, e.g. diaphragms, casing fastenings
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F01—MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; ENGINE PLANTS IN GENERAL; STEAM ENGINES
- F01D—NON-POSITIVE DISPLACEMENT MACHINES OR ENGINES, e.g. STEAM TURBINES
- F01D5/00—Blades; Blade-carrying members; Heating, heat-insulating, cooling or antivibration means on the blades or the members
- F01D5/12—Blades
- F01D5/14—Form or construction
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F01—MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; ENGINE PLANTS IN GENERAL; STEAM ENGINES
- F01D—NON-POSITIVE DISPLACEMENT MACHINES OR ENGINES, e.g. STEAM TURBINES
- F01D5/00—Blades; Blade-carrying members; Heating, heat-insulating, cooling or antivibration means on the blades or the members
- F01D5/12—Blades
- F01D5/14—Form or construction
- F01D5/141—Shape, i.e. outer, aerodynamic form
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F01—MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; ENGINE PLANTS IN GENERAL; STEAM ENGINES
- F01D—NON-POSITIVE DISPLACEMENT MACHINES OR ENGINES, e.g. STEAM TURBINES
- F01D5/00—Blades; Blade-carrying members; Heating, heat-insulating, cooling or antivibration means on the blades or the members
- F01D5/12—Blades
- F01D5/14—Form or construction
- F01D5/141—Shape, i.e. outer, aerodynamic form
- F01D5/142—Shape, i.e. outer, aerodynamic form of the blades of successive rotor or stator blade-rows
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F01—MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; ENGINE PLANTS IN GENERAL; STEAM ENGINES
- F01D—NON-POSITIVE DISPLACEMENT MACHINES OR ENGINES, e.g. STEAM TURBINES
- F01D5/00—Blades; Blade-carrying members; Heating, heat-insulating, cooling or antivibration means on the blades or the members
- F01D5/12—Blades
- F01D5/14—Form or construction
- F01D5/141—Shape, i.e. outer, aerodynamic form
- F01D5/142—Shape, i.e. outer, aerodynamic form of the blades of successive rotor or stator blade-rows
- F01D5/143—Contour of the outer or inner working fluid flow path wall, i.e. shroud or hub contour
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F01—MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; ENGINE PLANTS IN GENERAL; STEAM ENGINES
- F01D—NON-POSITIVE DISPLACEMENT MACHINES OR ENGINES, e.g. STEAM TURBINES
- F01D5/00—Blades; Blade-carrying members; Heating, heat-insulating, cooling or antivibration means on the blades or the members
- F01D5/12—Blades
- F01D5/14—Form or construction
- F01D5/141—Shape, i.e. outer, aerodynamic form
- F01D5/146—Shape, i.e. outer, aerodynamic form of blades with tandem configuration, split blades or slotted blades
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F02—COMBUSTION ENGINES; HOT-GAS OR COMBUSTION-PRODUCT ENGINE PLANTS
- F02C—GAS-TURBINE PLANTS; AIR INTAKES FOR JET-PROPULSION PLANTS; CONTROLLING FUEL SUPPLY IN AIR-BREATHING JET-PROPULSION PLANTS
- F02C7/00—Features, components parts, details or accessories, not provided for in, or of interest apart form groups F02C1/00 - F02C6/00; Air intakes for jet-propulsion plants
- F02C7/20—Mounting or supporting of plant; Accommodating heat expansion or creep
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F05—INDEXING SCHEMES RELATING TO ENGINES OR PUMPS IN VARIOUS SUBCLASSES OF CLASSES F01-F04
- F05D—INDEXING SCHEME FOR ASPECTS RELATING TO NON-POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT MACHINES OR ENGINES, GAS-TURBINES OR JET-PROPULSION PLANTS
- F05D2230/00—Manufacture
- F05D2230/20—Manufacture essentially without removing material
- F05D2230/23—Manufacture essentially without removing material by permanently joining parts together
- F05D2230/232—Manufacture essentially without removing material by permanently joining parts together by welding
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02T—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO TRANSPORTATION
- Y02T50/00—Aeronautics or air transport
- Y02T50/60—Efficient propulsion technologies, e.g. for aircraft
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T29/00—Metal working
- Y10T29/49—Method of mechanical manufacture
- Y10T29/49316—Impeller making
- Y10T29/4932—Turbomachine making
- Y10T29/49321—Assembling individual fluid flow interacting members, e.g., blades, vanes, buckets, on rotary support member
Definitions
- the present disclosure relates generally to gas turbine engines, and more particularly to a vane fairing for a turbine exhaust case of an industrial gas turbine engine.
- a turbine exhaust case is a structural frame that supports engine bearing loads while providing a gas path at or near the aft end of a gas turbine engine.
- Some aero engines utilize a turbine exhaust case to help mount the gas turbine engine to an aircraft airframe.
- a turbine exhaust case is more commonly used to couple gas turbine engines to a power turbine that powers an electrical generator.
- Industrial turbine exhaust cases may, for instance, be situated between a low pressure engine turbine and a generator power turbine.
- a turbine exhaust case must bear shaft loads from interior bearings, and must be capable of sustained operation at high temperatures.
- Turbine exhaust cases serve two primary purposes: airflow channeling and structural support.
- Turbine exhaust cases typically comprise structures with inner and outer rings connected by radial struts.
- the struts and rings often define a core flow path from fore to aft, while simultaneously mechanically supporting shaft bearings situated axially inward of the inner ring.
- the components of a turbine exhaust case are exposed to very high temperatures along the core flow path.
- Various approaches and architectures have been employed to handle these high temperatures.
- Some turbine exhaust case frames utilize high-temperature, high-stress capable materials to both define the core flow path and bear mechanical loads.
- Other frame architectures separate these two functions, pairing a structural frame for mechanical loads with a high-temperature capable fairing to define the core flow path. In systems with separate structural frames and flow path fairings, the installation of the fairing on the frame without weakening either component presents a technical challenge.
- the present disclosure is directed toward a turbine exhaust case comprising a frame and a fairing.
- the frame has inner and outer rings connected by a plurality of radial struts.
- the fairing defines an airflow path within the frame, and has upstream and downstream sections connected together about the radial struts.
- FIG. 1 is a simplified partial cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a gas turbine engine.
- FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a turbine exhaust case of the gas turbine engine of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 3A is a perspective view of an initial cast of a vane fairing of the turbine exhaust case of FIG. 2 .
- FIG. 3B is a perspective view of the vane fairing of FIG. 3A , cut apart into upstream and downstream sections
- FIG. 3C is a perspective view of the vane fairing of FIG. 3B , with the upstream and downstream sections attached together in an assembled state
- FIG. 4 is a method flowchart describing a method for assembling the turbine exhaust case of FIG. 2 .
- FIG. 1 is a simplified partial cross-sectional view of gas turbine engine 10 , comprising inlet 12 , compressor 14 (with low pressure compressor 16 and high pressure compressor 18 ), combustor 20 , engine turbine 22 (with high pressure turbine 24 and low pressure turbine 26 ), turbine exhaust case 28 , power turbine 30 , low pressure shaft 32 , high pressure shaft 34 , and power shaft 36 .
- Gas turbine engine 10 can, for instance, be an industrial power turbine.
- Low pressure shaft 32 , high pressure shaft 34 , and power shaft 36 are situated along rotational axis A.
- low pressure shaft 32 and high pressure shaft 34 are arranged concentrically, while power shaft 36 is disposed axially aft of low pressure shaft 32 and high pressure shaft 34 .
- Low pressure shaft 32 defines a low pressure spool including low pressure compressor 16 and low pressure turbine 26 .
- High pressure shaft 34 analogously defines a high pressure spool including high pressure compressor 18 and high pressure compressor 24 .
- airflow F is received at inlet 12 , then pressurized by low pressure compressor 16 and high pressure compressor 18 .
- Fuel is injected at combustor 20 , where the resulting fuel-air mixture is ignited.
- Expanding combustion gasses rotate high pressure turbine 24 and low pressure turbine 26 , thereby driving high and low pressure compressors 18 and 16 through high pressure shaft 34 and low pressure shaft 32 , respectively.
- compressor 14 and engine turbine 22 are depicted as two-spool components with high and low sections on separate shafts, single spool or 3+ spool embodiments of compressor 14 and engine turbine 22 are also possible.
- Turbine exhaust case 28 carries airflow from low pressure turbine 26 to power turbine 30 , where this airflow drives power shaft 36 .
- Power shaft 36 can, for instance, drive an electrical generator, pump, mechanical gearbox, or other accessory (not shown).
- turbine exhaust case 28 can support one or more shaft loads.
- Turbine exhaust case 28 can, for instance, support low pressure shaft 32 via bearing compartments (not shown) disposed to communicate load from low pressure shaft 32 to a structural frame of turbine exhaust case 28 .
- FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of turbine exhaust case 28 , illustrating frame 102 (with frame outer ring 104 , frame inner ring 106 , frame struts 108 , low pressure turbine connection 110 , and power turbine connection 112 ), bearing support 114 , fasteners 116 a and 116 b , fairing 118 (with fairing outer platform 120 , fairing inner platform 122 , and fairing vanes 124 ), forward stiffening flange 126 , aft stiffening flange 128 , strut heat shield 132 , outer heat shield 134 , and inner heat shield 136 .
- turbine exhaust case 28 defines at least a portion of an airflow path for core flow F, and carries load radially from bearing support 114 (which in turn connects to bearing components, not shown). These two functions are performed by separate components: frame 102 carries bearing loads, while fairing 118 at least partially defines the flow path of core flow F.
- Frame 102 is a relatively thick, rigid support structure formed, for example, of cast steel.
- Outer ring 104 of frame 102 serves as an attachment point for upstream and downstream components at low pressure turbine connection 110 and power turbine connection 112 , respectively.
- Low pressure turbine connection 110 and power turbine connection 112 can, for instance, include fastener holes for attachment to adjacent low pressure turbine 26 and power turbine 30 , respectively.
- Frame inner ring 106 is mechanically connected to bearing support 114 via fasteners 116 a , which can for instance be bolts, screws, pins or rivets.
- Frame inner ring 106 communicates bearing load radially from bearing support 114 to frame outer ring 104 via frame struts 108 , which extend at angular intervals between frame inner ring 106 and frame outer ring 104 .
- frame struts 108 extend at angular intervals between frame inner ring 106 and frame outer ring 104 .
- turbine exhaust case 28 can include any desired number of struts 108 .
- Fairing 118 is a high-temperature capable aerodynamic structure at least partially defining the boundaries of core flow F through turbine exhaust case 28 .
- Fairing outer platform 120 generally defines an outer flowpath diameter
- fairing inner platform 122 generally defines an inner flowpath diameter.
- Fairing vanes 124 surround frame struts 108 , and form a plurality of aerodynamic vane bodies.
- Fairing 118 can, for instance, be formed of a superalloy material such as Inconel or other nickel-based superalloy. Fairing 118 is generally rated for higher temperatures than frame 102 , and can be affixed to frame 102 via fasteners 116 b .
- fairing 118 is affixed to frame inner ring 106 at the forward inner diameter of fairing 118 , although alternative embodiments of turbine exhaust case 28 can secure fairing 118 by other means and/or in other locations.
- Forward and aft stiffening flanges 126 and 128 can extend radially outward from the entire circumference of fairing outer platform 120 to provide increased structural rigidity to fairing 118 .
- Turbine exhaust case 28 includes a plurality of heat shields to protect frame 102 from radiative and convective heating.
- Strut heat shield 132 is situated between fairing vanes 124 and frame struts 108 .
- Outer heat shield 134 can be situated between fairing outer platform 120 and frame outer ring 104 .
- Inner heat shield 136 can be is situated radially inward of a forward portion of fairing inner platform 122 .
- all three heat shields 132 , 134 , and 136 can be formed of Inconel or a similar nickel-based superalloy.
- Strut heat shield 132 , outer heat shield 134 , and inner heat shield 136 act as barriers to heat from fairing 118 , which can become very hot during operation of gas turbine 10 .
- Heat shields 132 , 134 , and 136 thus help to protect frame 102 , which can be rated to lower temperatures than fairing 118 , from exposure to excessive heat.
- FIGS. 3A , 3 B, and 3 C present successive steps in the formation and installation of fairing 118 with outer platform 120 , inner platform 122 , and fairing vanes 124 .
- FIGS. 3A , 3 B, and 3 C illustrate a single angular section 200 of fairing 118 .
- Angular section 200 can be a representative section of a unitary fairing cast as a annular piece, or one of several separately cast angular pieces welded or otherwise joined together to form fairing 118 .
- Angular section 200 includes forward section 202 and aft section 204 separated by sacrificial region 206 situated along cut line CL.
- angular section 200 is initially cast in a single piece. As shown in FIG. 3B , angular section 200 is cut along cut line CL to separate forward section 202 from aft section 204 , thereby allowing vane section 200 to be situated about frame 102 .
- Fairing section 200 can, for instance, be cut by electric discharge machining (EDM). The cutting process consumes a portion of sacrificial region 206 of angular section 200 , leaving reduced forward and aft sacrificial regions 206 a and 206 b attached to forward section 202 and aft section 204 , respectively.
- EDM electric discharge machining
- forward and aft sections 202 and 204 can be separated by other means, such as by mechanically cutting along cut line CL. In some such embodiments, forward and aft sections 202 and 204 can subsequently be finished along cut line CL to smooth the resulting cut.
- the width of sacrificial region 206 can be scaled as appropriate to the method of cutting selected. Forward and aft sections 202 and 204 are then positioned about strut 108 of frame 102 , and welded together along cut line CL as shown in FIG. 3C to form a single unitary piece. This weld consumes the remainder of forward and aft sacrificial sections 206 a and 206 b.
- cut line CL is selected to distance the resulting eventual weld apart from leading and trailing edges of fairing vane 124 where stresses on fairing 118 from core airflow F are greatest.
- cut line CL is situated along a chord slightly upstream of the widest portion of fairing vane 124 . This positioning allows easy access from the forward side of fairing 118 to perform a manual weld along cut line CL during installation.
- cut line CL can instead be positioned along a chord downstream of the widest portion of fairing vane 124 .
- FIG. 4 illustrates the method set out above with respect to FIGS. 3A , 3 B, and 3 C for installing fairing 118 .
- frame 102 is produced in a single piece.
- Frame 102 can be formed in a single unitary section, or formed from several separately cast pieces joined together.
- forward and aft sections 202 and 204 of fairing 118 are cast in a single angular piece 200 .
- Step S 2 As discussed above, fairing 118 can be formed from a plurality of separate angular sections 200 , or in a single annular piece. Fairing 118 can, for instance, be die cast.
- Fairing 118 is then cut into forward section 202 and aft section 204 , thereby consuming a portion of sacrificial region 206 .
- Step S 3 Forward and aft sections 202 and 204 are assembled about strut 108 of frame 102 (Step S 4 ), and welded back together (Step S 5 ), thereby consuming the remainder of sacrificial region 206 .
- fairing 118 can be installed about the strut of a unitary frame. Splitting fairing 118 into forward and aft sections produces an assembled fairing without weak joints corresponding to weld locations at leading or trailing edges of fairing vanes 124 .
- a turbine exhaust case comprising a frame having inner and outer rings connected by a plurality of radial struts, and a fairing defining an airflow path within the frame.
- the fairing comprises upstream and downstream sections connected together about the radial struts.
- the turbine exhaust case of the preceding paragraph can optionally include, additionally and/or alternatively, any one or more of the following features, configurations and/or additional components:
- upstream and downstream sections of the vane are welded together about the radial struts along a cut line.
- cut line defines a radial plane of separation between the upstream and downstream sections.
- the fairing comprises radially inner and outer platforms connected by a vane body.
- upstream and downstream sections are connected along a chord near a widest section of the vane body.
- chord is located upstream of the widest section of the vane body.
- the fairing is comprised of a plurality of joined-together angular segments further comprising a radiative heat shield disposed between the frame and the fairing.
- a method for assembling a comprising casting a fairing with a vane body, an inner platform, and an outer platform in a single piece; cutting the fairing into an upstream section and a downstream section along a along a cut line; assembling the upstream and downstream sections about a turbine exhaust case frame; and attaching the upstream section to the downstream section.
- the method of the preceding paragraph can optionally include, additionally and/or alternatively, any one or more of the following features, configurations and/or additional components:
- the cut line is situated along a chord near the widest section of the vane body wherein the fairing includes a sacrificial region to account for weld shrinkage and material removed while cutting the fairing into upstream and downstream sections.
- vane is cut using electric discharge machining.
- attaching the upstream section to the downstream section comprises performing a weld long the chord.
- chord is upstream of the widest section of the vane body.
- chord is downstream of the widest section of the vane body.
- weld is a manual weld
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Fluid Mechanics (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
- Turbine Rotor Nozzle Sealing (AREA)
Abstract
A turbine exhaust case (28) comprises a frame (102) and a fairing (118). The frame has inner (106) and outer (104) rings connected by a plurality of radial struts (108). The fairing defines an airflow path within the frame, and has upstream (202) and downstream (204) sections connected together about the radial struts.
Description
- The present disclosure relates generally to gas turbine engines, and more particularly to a vane fairing for a turbine exhaust case of an industrial gas turbine engine.
- A turbine exhaust case is a structural frame that supports engine bearing loads while providing a gas path at or near the aft end of a gas turbine engine. Some aero engines utilize a turbine exhaust case to help mount the gas turbine engine to an aircraft airframe. In industrial applications, a turbine exhaust case is more commonly used to couple gas turbine engines to a power turbine that powers an electrical generator. Industrial turbine exhaust cases may, for instance, be situated between a low pressure engine turbine and a generator power turbine. A turbine exhaust case must bear shaft loads from interior bearings, and must be capable of sustained operation at high temperatures.
- Turbine exhaust cases serve two primary purposes: airflow channeling and structural support. Turbine exhaust cases typically comprise structures with inner and outer rings connected by radial struts. The struts and rings often define a core flow path from fore to aft, while simultaneously mechanically supporting shaft bearings situated axially inward of the inner ring. The components of a turbine exhaust case are exposed to very high temperatures along the core flow path. Various approaches and architectures have been employed to handle these high temperatures. Some turbine exhaust case frames utilize high-temperature, high-stress capable materials to both define the core flow path and bear mechanical loads. Other frame architectures separate these two functions, pairing a structural frame for mechanical loads with a high-temperature capable fairing to define the core flow path. In systems with separate structural frames and flow path fairings, the installation of the fairing on the frame without weakening either component presents a technical challenge.
- The present disclosure is directed toward a turbine exhaust case comprising a frame and a fairing. The frame has inner and outer rings connected by a plurality of radial struts. The fairing defines an airflow path within the frame, and has upstream and downstream sections connected together about the radial struts.
-
FIG. 1 is a simplified partial cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a gas turbine engine. -
FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a turbine exhaust case of the gas turbine engine ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 3A is a perspective view of an initial cast of a vane fairing of the turbine exhaust case ofFIG. 2 . -
FIG. 3B is a perspective view of the vane fairing ofFIG. 3A , cut apart into upstream and downstream sections -
FIG. 3C is a perspective view of the vane fairing ofFIG. 3B , with the upstream and downstream sections attached together in an assembled state -
FIG. 4 is a method flowchart describing a method for assembling the turbine exhaust case ofFIG. 2 . -
FIG. 1 is a simplified partial cross-sectional view ofgas turbine engine 10, comprisinginlet 12, compressor 14 (withlow pressure compressor 16 and high pressure compressor 18),combustor 20, engine turbine 22 (withhigh pressure turbine 24 and low pressure turbine 26),turbine exhaust case 28,power turbine 30,low pressure shaft 32,high pressure shaft 34, andpower shaft 36.Gas turbine engine 10 can, for instance, be an industrial power turbine. -
Low pressure shaft 32,high pressure shaft 34, andpower shaft 36 are situated along rotational axis A. In the depicted embodiment,low pressure shaft 32 andhigh pressure shaft 34 are arranged concentrically, whilepower shaft 36 is disposed axially aft oflow pressure shaft 32 andhigh pressure shaft 34.Low pressure shaft 32 defines a low pressure spool includinglow pressure compressor 16 andlow pressure turbine 26.High pressure shaft 34 analogously defines a high pressure spool includinghigh pressure compressor 18 andhigh pressure compressor 24. As is well known in the art of gas turbines, airflow F is received atinlet 12, then pressurized bylow pressure compressor 16 andhigh pressure compressor 18. Fuel is injected atcombustor 20, where the resulting fuel-air mixture is ignited. Expanding combustion gasses rotatehigh pressure turbine 24 andlow pressure turbine 26, thereby driving high andlow pressure compressors high pressure shaft 34 andlow pressure shaft 32, respectively. Althoughcompressor 14 andengine turbine 22 are depicted as two-spool components with high and low sections on separate shafts, single spool or 3+ spool embodiments ofcompressor 14 andengine turbine 22 are also possible.Turbine exhaust case 28 carries airflow fromlow pressure turbine 26 topower turbine 30, where this airflow drivespower shaft 36.Power shaft 36 can, for instance, drive an electrical generator, pump, mechanical gearbox, or other accessory (not shown). - In addition to defining an airflow path from
low pressure turbine 26 topower turbine 30,turbine exhaust case 28 can support one or more shaft loads.Turbine exhaust case 28 can, for instance, supportlow pressure shaft 32 via bearing compartments (not shown) disposed to communicate load fromlow pressure shaft 32 to a structural frame ofturbine exhaust case 28. -
FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment ofturbine exhaust case 28, illustrating frame 102 (with frameouter ring 104, frameinner ring 106,frame struts 108, lowpressure turbine connection 110, and power turbine connection 112),bearing support 114,fasteners outer platform 120, fairinginner platform 122, and fairing vanes 124), forward stiffeningflange 126, aftstiffening flange 128,strut heat shield 132, outer heat shield 134, andinner heat shield 136. - As described above with respect to
FIG. 1 ,turbine exhaust case 28 defines at least a portion of an airflow path for core flow F, and carries load radially from bearing support 114 (which in turn connects to bearing components, not shown). These two functions are performed by separate components:frame 102 carries bearing loads, while fairing 118 at least partially defines the flow path of core flow F. -
Frame 102 is a relatively thick, rigid support structure formed, for example, of cast steel.Outer ring 104 offrame 102 serves as an attachment point for upstream and downstream components at lowpressure turbine connection 110 andpower turbine connection 112, respectively. Lowpressure turbine connection 110 andpower turbine connection 112 can, for instance, include fastener holes for attachment to adjacentlow pressure turbine 26 andpower turbine 30, respectively. Frameinner ring 106 is mechanically connected to bearingsupport 114 viafasteners 116 a, which can for instance be bolts, screws, pins or rivets. Frameinner ring 106 communicates bearing load radially frombearing support 114 to frameouter ring 104 viaframe struts 108, which extend at angular intervals between frameinner ring 106 and frameouter ring 104. Although only onestrut 108 is visible inFIG. 1 ,turbine exhaust case 28 can include any desired number ofstruts 108. -
Fairing 118 is a high-temperature capable aerodynamic structure at least partially defining the boundaries of core flow F throughturbine exhaust case 28. Fairingouter platform 120 generally defines an outer flowpath diameter, while fairinginner platform 122 generally defines an inner flowpath diameter. Fairing vanes 124surround frame struts 108, and form a plurality of aerodynamic vane bodies. Fairing 118 can, for instance, be formed of a superalloy material such as Inconel or other nickel-based superalloy.Fairing 118 is generally rated for higher temperatures thanframe 102, and can be affixed toframe 102 viafasteners 116 b. In the depicted embodiment,fairing 118 is affixed to frameinner ring 106 at the forward inner diameter offairing 118, although alternative embodiments ofturbine exhaust case 28 can securefairing 118 by other means and/or in other locations. Forward and aftstiffening flanges outer platform 120 to provide increased structural rigidity to fairing 118. -
Turbine exhaust case 28 includes a plurality of heat shields to protectframe 102 from radiative and convective heating.Strut heat shield 132 is situated betweenfairing vanes 124 andframe struts 108. Outer heat shield 134 can be situated between fairingouter platform 120 and frameouter ring 104.Inner heat shield 136 can be is situated radially inward of a forward portion of fairinginner platform 122. Like fairing 118, all threeheat shields Strut heat shield 132, outer heat shield 134, andinner heat shield 136 act as barriers to heat from fairing 118, which can become very hot during operation ofgas turbine 10.Heat shields frame 102, which can be rated to lower temperatures than fairing 118, from exposure to excessive heat. -
FIGS. 3A , 3B, and 3C present successive steps in the formation and installation of fairing 118 withouter platform 120,inner platform 122, andfairing vanes 124.FIGS. 3A , 3B, and 3C illustrate a singleangular section 200 offairing 118.Angular section 200 can be a representative section of a unitary fairing cast as a annular piece, or one of several separately cast angular pieces welded or otherwise joined together to form fairing 118.Angular section 200 includesforward section 202 andaft section 204 separated bysacrificial region 206 situated along cut line CL. - As shown in
FIG. 3A ,angular section 200 is initially cast in a single piece. As shown inFIG. 3B ,angular section 200 is cut along cut line CL to separate forwardsection 202 fromaft section 204, thereby allowingvane section 200 to be situated aboutframe 102.Fairing section 200 can, for instance, be cut by electric discharge machining (EDM). The cutting process consumes a portion ofsacrificial region 206 ofangular section 200, leaving reduced forward and aftsacrificial regions forward section 202 andaft section 204, respectively. In alternative embodiments, forward andaft sections aft sections sacrificial region 206 can be scaled as appropriate to the method of cutting selected. Forward andaft sections strut 108 offrame 102, and welded together along cut line CL as shown inFIG. 3C to form a single unitary piece. This weld consumes the remainder of forward and aftsacrificial sections - The positioning of cut line CL is selected to distance the resulting eventual weld apart from leading and trailing edges of
fairing vane 124 where stresses on fairing 118 from core airflow F are greatest. In the depicted embodiment, cut line CL is situated along a chord slightly upstream of the widest portion offairing vane 124. This positioning allows easy access from the forward side of fairing 118 to perform a manual weld along cut line CL during installation. In alternative embodiments wherein a manual weld is performed from aft of fairing 118, cut line CL can instead be positioned along a chord downstream of the widest portion offairing vane 124. -
FIG. 4 illustrates the method set out above with respect toFIGS. 3A , 3B, and 3C for installingfairing 118. First,frame 102 is produced in a single piece. (Step S1).Frame 102 can be formed in a single unitary section, or formed from several separately cast pieces joined together. Next, forward andaft sections angular piece 200. (Step S2). As discussed above, fairing 118 can be formed from a plurality of separateangular sections 200, or in a single annular piece. Fairing 118 can, for instance, be die cast. Fairing 118 is then cut intoforward section 202 andaft section 204, thereby consuming a portion ofsacrificial region 206. (Step S3). Forward andaft sections strut 108 of frame 102 (Step S4), and welded back together (Step S5), thereby consuming the remainder ofsacrificial region 206. - By splitting each
angular section 200 into multiple sections during its installation process, fairing 118 can be installed about the strut of a unitary frame. Splitting fairing 118 into forward and aft sections produces an assembled fairing without weak joints corresponding to weld locations at leading or trailing edges of fairingvanes 124. - The following are non-exclusive descriptions of possible embodiments of the present invention.
- A turbine exhaust case comprising a frame having inner and outer rings connected by a plurality of radial struts, and a fairing defining an airflow path within the frame. The fairing comprises upstream and downstream sections connected together about the radial struts.
- The turbine exhaust case of the preceding paragraph can optionally include, additionally and/or alternatively, any one or more of the following features, configurations and/or additional components:
- wherein the upstream and downstream sections of the vane are welded together about the radial struts along a cut line.
- wherein the cut line defines a radial plane of separation between the upstream and downstream sections.
- wherein the fairing comprises radially inner and outer platforms connected by a vane body.
- wherein the upstream and downstream sections are connected along a chord near a widest section of the vane body.
- wherein the chord is located upstream of the widest section of the vane body.
- wherein the fairing is comprised of a plurality of joined-together angular segments further comprising a radiative heat shield disposed between the frame and the fairing.
- A method for assembling a, the method comprising casting a fairing with a vane body, an inner platform, and an outer platform in a single piece; cutting the fairing into an upstream section and a downstream section along a along a cut line; assembling the upstream and downstream sections about a turbine exhaust case frame; and attaching the upstream section to the downstream section.
- The method of the preceding paragraph can optionally include, additionally and/or alternatively, any one or more of the following features, configurations and/or additional components:
- wherein the cut line is situated along a chord near the widest section of the vane body wherein the fairing includes a sacrificial region to account for weld shrinkage and material removed while cutting the fairing into upstream and downstream sections.
- wherein the vane is cut using electric discharge machining.
- wherein attaching the upstream section to the downstream section comprises performing a weld long the chord.
- wherein the chord is upstream of the widest section of the vane body.
- wherein the chord is downstream of the widest section of the vane body.
- wherein the weld is a manual weld.
- wherein the manual weld is performed from forward of the fairing.
- While the invention has been described with reference to an exemplary embodiment(s), it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes can be made and equivalents can be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications can be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the particular embodiment(s) disclosed, but that the invention will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.
Claims (17)
1. A turbine exhaust case comprising:
a frame having inner and outer rings connected by a plurality of radial struts; and
a fairing defining an airflow path within the frame, the fairing comprising upstream and downstream sections connected together about the radial struts.
2. The turbine exhaust case of claim 1 , wherein the upstream and downstream sections of the vane are welded together about the radial struts along a cut line.
3. The turbine exhaust case of claim 2 , wherein the cut line defines a radial plane of separation between the upstream and downstream sections.
4. The turbine exhaust case of claim 1 , wherein the fairing comprises radially inner and outer platforms connected by a vane body.
5. The turbine exhaust case of claim 4 , wherein the upstream and downstream sections are connected along a chord near a circumferentially thickest section of the vane body.
6. The turbine exhaust case of claim 5 , wherein the chord is located upstream of the circumferentially thickest section of the vane body.
7. The turbine exhaust case of claim 1 , wherein the fairing is comprised of a plurality of joined-together angular segments.
8. The turbine exhaust case of claim 1 , further comprising a radiative heat shield disposed between the frame and the fairing.
9. A method for assembling a turbine exhaust case, the method comprising;
casting a fairing with a vane body, an inner platform, and an outer platform in a single piece;
cutting the fairing into an upstream section and a downstream section along a cut line;
assembling the upstream and downstream sections about a turbine exhaust case frame; and
attaching the upstream section to the downstream section.
10. The method of claim 9 , wherein the cut line is situated at a chord location near the widest section of the vane body.
11. The method of claim 10 , wherein the fairing includes a sacrificial region to account for weld shrinkage and material removed while cutting the fairing into upstream and downstream sections.
12. The method of claim 10 , wherein the vane is cut using electric discharge machining.
13. The method of claim 10 , wherein attaching the upstream section to the downstream section comprises performing a weld long at the chord location.
14. The method of claim 13 , wherein the chord location is situated upstream of the widest section of the vane body.
15. The method of claim 13 , wherein the chord location is situated downstream of the widest section of the vane body.
16. The method of claim 13 , wherein the weld is a manual weld.
17. The method of claim 16 , wherein the manual weld is performed from forward of the fairing.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US14/758,377 US20150337687A1 (en) | 2012-12-29 | 2013-12-19 | Split cast vane fairing |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US201261747264P | 2012-12-29 | 2012-12-29 | |
US14/758,377 US20150337687A1 (en) | 2012-12-29 | 2013-12-19 | Split cast vane fairing |
PCT/US2013/076499 WO2014105621A1 (en) | 2012-12-29 | 2013-12-19 | Split cast vane fairing |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20150337687A1 true US20150337687A1 (en) | 2015-11-26 |
Family
ID=51021973
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US14/758,377 Abandoned US20150337687A1 (en) | 2012-12-29 | 2013-12-19 | Split cast vane fairing |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20150337687A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2014105621A1 (en) |
Cited By (7)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20160017807A1 (en) * | 2013-03-11 | 2016-01-21 | United Technologies Corporation | Bench aft sub-assembly for turbine exhaust case fairing |
US20190063259A1 (en) * | 2017-08-25 | 2019-02-28 | Doosan Heavy Industries & Construction Co., Ltd. | High Thermal Response Exhaust Diffuser Strut Collar |
US20190249570A1 (en) * | 2018-02-09 | 2019-08-15 | General Electric Company | Integral Turbine Center Frame |
CN110805474A (en) * | 2018-08-06 | 2020-02-18 | 通用电气公司 | Fairing assembly |
US11286882B2 (en) * | 2018-11-28 | 2022-03-29 | Pratt & Whitney Canada Corp. | Exhaust casing for a gas turbine engine |
US20220325635A1 (en) * | 2019-09-12 | 2022-10-13 | Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. | Strut cover, exhaust casing, and gas turbine |
US11629615B2 (en) | 2021-05-27 | 2023-04-18 | Pratt & Withney Canada Corp. | Strut reinforcing structure for a turbine exhaust case |
Families Citing this family (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
CN105257343B (en) * | 2015-11-27 | 2017-03-08 | 东方电气集团东方汽轮机有限公司 | A kind of steam turbine band coronule structure split stator blade and its processing method |
GB2566751B (en) * | 2017-09-26 | 2020-07-15 | Gkn Aerospace Sweden Ab | Divot for outer case shroud |
Citations (13)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3250222A (en) * | 1961-11-20 | 1966-05-10 | Borg Warner | Hydrodynamic coupling device |
US4369016A (en) * | 1979-12-21 | 1983-01-18 | United Technologies Corporation | Turbine intermediate case |
US4793770A (en) * | 1987-08-06 | 1988-12-27 | General Electric Company | Gas turbine engine frame assembly |
US4989406A (en) * | 1988-12-29 | 1991-02-05 | General Electric Company | Turbine engine assembly with aft mounted outlet guide vanes |
US5788456A (en) * | 1997-02-21 | 1998-08-04 | Dresser-Rand Company | Turbine diaphragm assembly and method thereof |
US5811168A (en) * | 1996-01-19 | 1998-09-22 | The United States Of America As Represented By The Administrator Of The National Aeronautics And Space Administration | Durable advanced flexible reusable surface insulation |
US6593540B1 (en) * | 2002-02-08 | 2003-07-15 | Honeywell International, Inc. | Hand held powder-fed laser fusion welding torch |
US20050132715A1 (en) * | 2003-12-22 | 2005-06-23 | Allen Clifford E.Jr. | Methods and apparatus for assembling gas turbine engines |
US20070071607A1 (en) * | 2003-11-27 | 2007-03-29 | Winfried Esser | High-temperature-resistant component |
US20100135777A1 (en) * | 2008-11-29 | 2010-06-03 | John Alan Manteiga | Split fairing for a gas turbine engine |
US20100132374A1 (en) * | 2008-11-29 | 2010-06-03 | John Alan Manteiga | Turbine frame assembly and method for a gas turbine engine |
US20110274579A1 (en) * | 2008-11-04 | 2011-11-10 | Nikolai Arjakine | Welding Additive, Use of the Welding Additive and Component |
US20130224008A1 (en) * | 2012-02-29 | 2013-08-29 | Kin-Leung Cheung | Nano-metal coated vane component for gas turbine engines and method of manufacturing same |
Family Cites Families (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US6719524B2 (en) * | 2002-02-25 | 2004-04-13 | Honeywell International Inc. | Method of forming a thermally isolated gas turbine engine housing |
US8500392B2 (en) * | 2009-10-01 | 2013-08-06 | Pratt & Whitney Canada Corp. | Sealing for vane segments |
US8430627B2 (en) * | 2009-10-29 | 2013-04-30 | Alstom Technology Ltd | Gas turbine exhaust strut refurbishment |
-
2013
- 2013-12-19 WO PCT/US2013/076499 patent/WO2014105621A1/en active Application Filing
- 2013-12-19 US US14/758,377 patent/US20150337687A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (13)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3250222A (en) * | 1961-11-20 | 1966-05-10 | Borg Warner | Hydrodynamic coupling device |
US4369016A (en) * | 1979-12-21 | 1983-01-18 | United Technologies Corporation | Turbine intermediate case |
US4793770A (en) * | 1987-08-06 | 1988-12-27 | General Electric Company | Gas turbine engine frame assembly |
US4989406A (en) * | 1988-12-29 | 1991-02-05 | General Electric Company | Turbine engine assembly with aft mounted outlet guide vanes |
US5811168A (en) * | 1996-01-19 | 1998-09-22 | The United States Of America As Represented By The Administrator Of The National Aeronautics And Space Administration | Durable advanced flexible reusable surface insulation |
US5788456A (en) * | 1997-02-21 | 1998-08-04 | Dresser-Rand Company | Turbine diaphragm assembly and method thereof |
US6593540B1 (en) * | 2002-02-08 | 2003-07-15 | Honeywell International, Inc. | Hand held powder-fed laser fusion welding torch |
US20070071607A1 (en) * | 2003-11-27 | 2007-03-29 | Winfried Esser | High-temperature-resistant component |
US20050132715A1 (en) * | 2003-12-22 | 2005-06-23 | Allen Clifford E.Jr. | Methods and apparatus for assembling gas turbine engines |
US20110274579A1 (en) * | 2008-11-04 | 2011-11-10 | Nikolai Arjakine | Welding Additive, Use of the Welding Additive and Component |
US20100135777A1 (en) * | 2008-11-29 | 2010-06-03 | John Alan Manteiga | Split fairing for a gas turbine engine |
US20100132374A1 (en) * | 2008-11-29 | 2010-06-03 | John Alan Manteiga | Turbine frame assembly and method for a gas turbine engine |
US20130224008A1 (en) * | 2012-02-29 | 2013-08-29 | Kin-Leung Cheung | Nano-metal coated vane component for gas turbine engines and method of manufacturing same |
Cited By (13)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US10330011B2 (en) * | 2013-03-11 | 2019-06-25 | United Technologies Corporation | Bench aft sub-assembly for turbine exhaust case fairing |
US20160017807A1 (en) * | 2013-03-11 | 2016-01-21 | United Technologies Corporation | Bench aft sub-assembly for turbine exhaust case fairing |
US10837316B2 (en) * | 2017-08-25 | 2020-11-17 | DOOSAN Heavy Industries Construction Co., LTD | High thermal response exhaust diffuser strut collar |
US20190063259A1 (en) * | 2017-08-25 | 2019-02-28 | Doosan Heavy Industries & Construction Co., Ltd. | High Thermal Response Exhaust Diffuser Strut Collar |
US20190249570A1 (en) * | 2018-02-09 | 2019-08-15 | General Electric Company | Integral Turbine Center Frame |
US10781721B2 (en) * | 2018-02-09 | 2020-09-22 | General Electric Company | Integral turbine center frame |
CN110805474A (en) * | 2018-08-06 | 2020-02-18 | 通用电气公司 | Fairing assembly |
US11454128B2 (en) * | 2018-08-06 | 2022-09-27 | General Electric Company | Fairing assembly |
CN110805474B (en) * | 2018-08-06 | 2022-11-01 | 通用电气公司 | Fairing assembly |
US11286882B2 (en) * | 2018-11-28 | 2022-03-29 | Pratt & Whitney Canada Corp. | Exhaust casing for a gas turbine engine |
US20220325635A1 (en) * | 2019-09-12 | 2022-10-13 | Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. | Strut cover, exhaust casing, and gas turbine |
US11834957B2 (en) * | 2019-09-12 | 2023-12-05 | Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. | Strut cover, exhaust casing, and gas turbine |
US11629615B2 (en) | 2021-05-27 | 2023-04-18 | Pratt & Withney Canada Corp. | Strut reinforcing structure for a turbine exhaust case |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
WO2014105621A1 (en) | 2014-07-03 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US20150337687A1 (en) | Split cast vane fairing | |
US10180084B2 (en) | Structural case for aircraft gas turbine engine | |
US10329956B2 (en) | Multi-function boss for a turbine exhaust case | |
EP2794182B1 (en) | Support structure for a gas turbine engine, corresponding gas turbine engine, aeroplane and method of constructing | |
EP2938860B1 (en) | Turbine exhaust case multi-piece frame | |
EP3075968A1 (en) | Turbine frame and airfoil for a turbine frame | |
US9822669B2 (en) | Turbine assembly with detachable struts | |
US20170260877A1 (en) | Doubler attachment system | |
EP2589759B1 (en) | Mid-Turbine Bearing Support | |
US9803551B2 (en) | Method for manufacturing of a gas turbine engine component | |
EP2855898B1 (en) | Stator vane bumper ring | |
US10329957B2 (en) | Turbine exhaust case multi-piece framed | |
EP2472070B1 (en) | Methods of manufacturing a gas turbine engine case and corresponding case | |
EP3263841B1 (en) | Turbine case boss | |
US20120275921A1 (en) | Turbine engine and load reduction device thereof | |
US10472987B2 (en) | Heat shield for a casing | |
US10240481B2 (en) | Angled cut to direct radiative heat load |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: UNITED TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION, CONNECTICUT Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:SCOTT, JONATHAN ARIEL;BUDNICK, MATTHEW;CHUONG, CONWAY;SIGNING DATES FROM 20131216 TO 20140122;REEL/FRAME:035928/0221 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |