Patents by Inventor Keith D. Sheffler

Keith D. Sheffler has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Thermal barrier removal process
    Patent number: 6158957
    Abstract: The invention is a process for removing ceramic thermal barrier layers from gas turbine engine hardware. A combination of chemical and mechanical steps are used to remove the thermal barrier coating from the substrate without removing the bond coat from the substrate. The process leaves the bond coat on the substrate in condition to receive a repair ceramic thermal barrier coating. The process includes a caustic solution treatment in an autoclave under controlled conditions followed by a mechanical abrasion process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2000
    Assignee: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: John J. Marcin, Stephen D. Murray, Keith D. Sheffler
  • Thermal barrier coating system
    Patent number: 4861618
    Abstract: A thermal barrier coating system for the protection of nickel and cobalt base superalloys at elevated temperature comprises 7% yttria partially stabilized zirconia plasma sprayed in air on a plasma sprayed NiCoCrAlY bond coat which has been plasma sprayed in air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1987
    Date of Patent: August 29, 1989
    Assignee: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Raymond W. Vine, Keith D. Sheffler, Charles E. Bevan
  • Method for preventing closure of cooling holes in hollow, air cooled turbine engine components during application of a plasma spray coating
    Patent number: 4743462
    Abstract: This invention relates to the application of plasma sprayed coatings to the surface of components which have small holes therein, such as hollow, air cooled blades or vanes used in turbine engines. Coating material is prevented from depositing on the wall surface of the holes by the presence of fugitive plugs in the holes during the coating process. The plugs are removed after the coating has been applied, resulting in the holes being open and unobstructed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1986
    Date of Patent: May 10, 1988
    Assignee: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas J. Radzavich, Donald G. Nordstrom, Keith D. Sheffler