Abstract: A process for making a hybrid ceramic article is disclosed. The process involves embedding an array of refractory ceramic tiles in a fiber reinforced glass-ceramic matrix composite substrate. The hybrid ceramic article so formed exhibits high thermal stability and elevated temperature load-bearing ability.

Abstract: A cleaning method for gas turbine engine airfoils includes a step of autoclave process cleaning and a step of chelating agent solution cleaning. The cleaning method also includes water rinsing after the autoclave cleaning and after the chelating agent solution cleaning. A subsequent step of high pressure water jet spray removes the debris. The cleaning method of the present invention significantly reduces the number of cleaning cycles required to clean the airfoils.

Abstract: A hybrid ceramic article for high temperature applications is disclosed. The thermal barrier comprises an array of refractory ceramic tiles embedded in a fiber reinforced glass-ceramic matrix composite structure. The hybrid ceramic article exhibits high thermal stability and elevated temperature load bearing ability. A combustor liner and a combustor liner panel for a gas turbine engine and also disclosed.

Abstract: A fiber reinforced glass matrix composite has a glass matrix or glass ceramic and a plurality of primary and secondary reinforcing fibers dispersed in the matrix. The primary fibers may be continuous or discontinuous. The secondary fibers are discontinuous. The secondary reinforcing fibers which are shorter than the primary fibers fill regions of the matrix not filled with the primary reinforcing fibers. The composite may be made by uniformly distributing the secondary reinforcing fibers in a dispersant. A glass powder is mixed in a carrier liquid to create a slurry and the secondary reinforcing fibers and dispersant are slowly added to the slurry so the fibers uniformly disperse as they are added. A binder is also added to the slurry. A continuous fiber is impregnated with the slurry and the impregnated fiber is dried to remove the carrier liquid. The impregnated yarn is cut to a suitable length and molded by a suitable molding method to form a fiber reinforced glass matrix composite.

Abstract: Fiber reinforced glass or glass-ceramic matrix composite articles are described which comprise spaced apart face sheets connected by ribs which extend between the face sheets. The fibers in the ribs are interwoven with the fibers in the face sheets, thereby producing a structure having high shear strength.

Abstract: A method of molding a hollow, fiber reinforced glass matrix composite article. Reinforcing fibers are placed in a mold cavity. A billet of high temperature stable glass matrix material is heated above its flow point. The thus heated matrix materials is flowed into the mold cavity from a point inside of the article being formed and at the relative midpoint along its vertical axis. Improved article tolerance control and minimized article preform fiber disturbance is achieved.

Abstract: Corrosion resistant, high strength, superalloy single crystal articles are described. Starting with a nominal composition of 11.75% Cr, 9% Co, 1.75% Mo, 4.5% W, 2.5% Ta, 2.5% Al, 4% Ti, balance essentially nickel, intentional additions are made of carbon and extra tantalum. From 0.05-0.15% carbon is added along with sufficient tantalum to combine with the carbon to form tantalum carbon. The resultant articles have substantially improved hot corrosion resistance and creep properties.

Abstract: Concepts relating to the heat treatment of single crystal superalloy articles are disclosed. A first concept is the use of a heat treatment sequence which includes incipient melting of the article being heat treated followed by one or more steps which essentially heal the incipient melting damage. A second concept relates to the treatment of previously heat treated single crystal articles which have incipient melting. Methods are disclosed for healing this damage and for recovering the mechanical properties of such articles. A third concept disclosed is a particular cycle which permits effective heat treatment of a specific single crystal alloy composition.

Abstract: Single crystal superalloy articles of a composition similar to that of IN-939 are given a combined coating and heat treatment cycle. The cycle includes a solution treatment step, a coating application step, a post coating treatment at a temperature above the gamma prime solvus and one or more aging steps. Articles so treated have improved mechanical properties.