Abstract: A method of making a turbine airfoil includes generating an airfoil core (14) that includes a core exit along an extended portion (28) of the trailing edge (32) outside of the airfoil part geometry. Float points (12) are positioned along the extended portion (28) of the airfoil core (14). Each float point (12) includes a float feature (34) that includes a localized radially straight surface (42) extending out and creating a gap (18) between the airfoil core (14) and the mold shell (16).

Abstract: Airfoil outer wall thickness of a gas turbine engine blade is increased in the zone that is proximate the trailing edge and blade hub by forty to sixty percent (40-60%) greater than comparable greatest wall thickness anywhere else along the trailing edge from outboard that zone all the way to the blade tip. The increased thickness zone includes a transition zone that bridges the respective airfoil outer wall thicknesses proximate the hub and tip of the blade. Some embodiments also incorporate pedestals with compound curve fillets in the increased wall thickness zone. The increased thickness zone reduces blade cracking propensity and enhances service life.