Assembling Fluid Flow Directing Devices, E.g., Stators, Diaphragms, Nozzles Patents (Class 29/889.22)
  • Publication number: 20100209235
    Abstract: In one aspect, a method for assembling an outlet guide vane is provided. The method includes providing an outlet guide vane frame having a first side and a second side. The outlet guide vane includes a radially inward flange coupled to a radially outward flange by a leading edge. A trailing edge is coupled to the radially inward flange and the radially outward flange aft of the leading edge. A cavity is defined between the radially inward flange, the radially outward flange, the leading edge, and the trailing edge. A first and a second mating surface circumscribe the cavity on the first and second sides respectively. The method further includes coupling a filler portion within the cavity wherein the filler portion includes a third side and a fourth side, coupling a first skin to the third side and the first mating surface, and coupling a second skin to the fourth side and the second mating surface, wherein at least one of the first skin and the second skin are fabricated from a composite material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2009
    Publication date: August 19, 2010
    Inventors: Dong-Jin Shim, Scott Finn, Apostolos Pavlos Karafillis, William Howard Hasting, Arjan Hegeman
  • Publication number: 20100209237
    Abstract: A vane for use in a duct, such as an exhaust duct in a gas turbine engine, comprises a shear web arranged to extend substantially across the duct and to be fixedly attached to at least one wall thereof, and one or more vane plates removably mountable on the web. On each side of the web three retaining plates are secured to the web by bolts 18. A plurality of mounting brackets, are permanently fixed to the vane plates by riveting with countersunk-head rivets. Mounting brackets have tangs which are arranged for slidable engagement with the retaining plates in a direction opposite to arrow A. Thus, the vane plates may be slid along the web from a trailing edge of the vane to a leading edge, and back. Once the vane plates are in the required position on the web they may be secured against further sliding movement by a pair of limiting brackets, one on each side of the web.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2010
    Publication date: August 19, 2010
    Applicant: ROLLS-ROYCS PLC
    Inventors: Joseph B. COOPER, Paul R. HAYTON, Thomas J. I. LUXTON
  • Publication number: 20100209240
    Abstract: A vane fixing apparatus for removably fixing a vane plate (14) to a web (12) is described. The vane fixing apparatus comprises a mounting bracket (16) attached to the vane plate (14), and a mounting block (20,30) held on the web (12) by at least one fastener (18), wherein the mounting block (20,30) is moveable between a first configuration in which the mounting bracket (16) may engage and disengage the mounting block (20,30) and a second configuration in which the mounting block (20,30) securely retains the mounting bracket (16) relative to the web (12), and wherein the mounting block (20,30) is moveable between the first and second configurations by operation of the fastener (18).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2010
    Publication date: August 19, 2010
    Applicant: ROLLS-ROYCE PLC
    Inventors: Joseph B. COOPER, Paul R. HAYTON
  • Publication number: 20100205930
    Abstract: The invention relates to an exhaust system (100) for channeling the streams from a by-pass gas turbine, the system comprising a stream channeling nozzle and an exhaust casing (110) for connecting the channeling nozzle to the outlet of the gas turbine, said channeling nozzle comprising a primary nozzle (120) fastened to the exhaust casing (110) and a secondary nozzle (130) placed around the primary nozzle. The exhaust system further comprises means for fastening the secondary nozzle (130) directly to the exhaust casing (110), said secondary nozzle being supported by the exhaust casing independently of the primary nozzle (120).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2008
    Publication date: August 19, 2010
    Inventors: Eric Conete, Laurent Baroumes, Georges Habarou
  • Patent number: 7765658
    Abstract: A fixture assembly for securely positioning a plurality of blades loosely assembled on to a rotor of a gas turbine engine in which axial clamping forces are translated to apply radial expansion forces on the blades to simulate a centrifugal force on the blades during engine operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Assignee: Pratt & Whitney Canada Corp.
    Inventor: Eric Piccioni
  • Patent number: 7761990
    Abstract: A method of replacing an individual damaged compressor stator airfoil includes machining an oversized slot through the stator casing, removing the damaged airfoil, and joining a sleeve to the replacement airfoil and stator casing. The oversized slot creates sufficient clearance for removal of a three-dimensional airfoil, while the sleeve creates a sufficiently tight fit to allow the pieces to be brazed together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2010
    Assignee: PAS Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Wes L. Ellis, Mark Greene
  • Publication number: 20100180599
    Abstract: A swirl vane is independently connectable to a central hub assembly of a gas turbine. The swirl vane includes a structural body and at least one fuel delivery passage including a corresponding at least one fuel port defined within the structural body. At least one connecting tab is cooperable with the structural body and is connectable to the central hub assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2009
    Publication date: July 22, 2010
    Inventors: Stephen R. Thomas, Geoffrey D. Myers, Scott Simmons
  • Publication number: 20100172755
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a compressor case assembly that includes a compressor case section having an assembly track and a set of stator portions that are insertable in the assembly track, the compressor case section and the set of stator portions are configured such that the set of stator portions only assembles to the compressor case section in a single configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 6, 2009
    Publication date: July 8, 2010
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Donald Joseph Kasperski, Dwight Eric Davidson
  • Publication number: 20100172748
    Abstract: A gas turbine engine nozzle is described. The gas turbine engine nozzle includes at least one nozzle vane having a first end and a second end. The first end is coupled to an inner sidewall and the second end is coupled to an outer sidewall. The gas turbine engine nozzle also includes at least one stress relief pocket defined within at least one of the inner sidewall and the outer sidewall proximate to the at least one nozzle vane. The at least one stress relief pocket is configured to reduce stress on the proximate nozzle vane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 2, 2009
    Publication date: July 8, 2010
    Inventors: Daniel David Snook, Edward Durell Benjamin
  • Patent number: 7748956
    Abstract: A method of assembling a stator apparatus includes providing a first vane having an airfoil section located between a first platform section and a second platform section, positioning a first shroud ring adjacent to the first vane, welding the first platform section of the first vane to the first shroud ring relative to a first edge of the of the first platform section of the first vane, and welding the first platform section of the first vane to the first shroud ring relative to a second edge of the of the first platform section. The second edge is located opposite the first edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignee: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Jose Paulino, Mark Rogers, Charles H. Warner, Steven D. Jenkel, Kurt R. Heinemann, Steven R. Chabot, Chester D. Blackman, Jr., Paul S. Bean, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20100166540
    Abstract: The present invention includes a pivotable vane having an airfoil with a vane spindle or stem extending toward a distal end thereof. The vane stem has a head with a pair of tapered flats having an outwardly extending angle as defined from the distal end of the head towards the airfoil. A vane arm having a substantially C-shaped connector with a pair of contact ends is constructed to maintain a gap with the tapered flats at an initial assembly step and positively engage the tapered flats at a final assembly step.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2009
    Publication date: July 1, 2010
    Inventors: Lucas R. Perez, Gary Steed, Terry Penrod
  • Publication number: 20100158676
    Abstract: A composite component such as a fan rear seal comprises a hub and a body of composite material which is moulded over the outer periphery of the hub. The body is formed from a preform of fibre reinforcement impregnated with a resin, in a compression moulding process. The body has an annular projection provided with a sealing surface. The sealing surface may comprise circumferential fins, or may be a surface of, for example, an abradable seal insert moulded into the composite material of the body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2009
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Applicant: ROLLS-ROYCE PLC
    Inventor: Kristofer John BOTTOME
  • Publication number: 20100150711
    Abstract: A method for preventing cracking of a turbine engine case includes the steps of disposing at least two rails upon an exterior surface of a turbine engine case; and securing a first rail to a first means for attaching at least one fan exit guide vane to the turbine engine case and securing a second rail to a second means for attaching the at least one fan exit guide vane to the turbine engine case.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2008
    Publication date: June 17, 2010
    Applicant: UNITED TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION
    Inventor: Gilford Beaulieu
  • Publication number: 20100150707
    Abstract: An airfoil has a hollow shell providing external airfoil surfaces, and a corrugated core within the shell. The core contacts inner surfaces of the shell to support the shell. The airfoil is formed by consolidating a hollow shell pre-form and a corrugated core pre-form. At least a part of the hollow shell has a leading edge shell portion and/or a trailing edge shell portion which, before consolidation of the pre-forms, is a unitary body having a shape which wraps around the respective edge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2009
    Publication date: June 17, 2010
    Applicant: ROLLS-ROYCE PLC
    Inventor: Matthew P. Jevons
  • Publication number: 20100143103
    Abstract: A seal (48) between a compressor rotor blade (26) and compressor casing (28) comprises an abradable structure (59) on the compressor casing (28). The abradable structure (59) comprises a metallic foam (60) having pores (66, 68). The metallic foam (60) has a first a region (62) and a second region (64). The first region (62) of the metallic foam (60) is arranged adjacent to the compressor casing (28) and the second region (64) of the metallic foam (60) is spaced from the compressor casing (28) by the first region (62) of the metallic foam (60). The pores (68) of the second region (64) of the metallic foam (60) contain an abradable material (70) and the pores (66) of the first region (62) of the metallic foam (60) do not contain an abradable material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2009
    Publication date: June 10, 2010
    Applicant: ROLLS-ROYCE PLC
    Inventors: Christopher Sellars, Glen Pattinson, John T. Gent
  • Publication number: 20100135782
    Abstract: The present invention has an object to provide an assembling method of a stator blade ring segment that can prevent the risk of thermal deformation and a reduction in strength, ensure flexibility of shape, and increase compression performance of a compressor. The present invention has another object to provide welding that prevents an object to be welded from rising from a groove or a recess during welding and allows satisfactory welding. A groove 50 formed in each segment piece 41 is formed to have side wall portions 50b on opposite sides inclined with respect to a bottom 50a so that a width of the groove 50 gradually decreases from an outer peripheral side toward the bottom 50a, and a coupling member 42 has a sectional shape so as to have a maximum width at protrusions 42b at an intermediate portion in a thickness direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2008
    Publication date: June 3, 2010
    Inventors: Ikuo Nakamura, Kunihiko Waki
  • Patent number: 7726019
    Abstract: A modification method for reducing emissions from an annular shaped combustor of a gas turbine plant, having uniformly spaced circumferentially mounted premix burners (20), includes the steps of: removing at least one burner (20), thereby disrupting the spatial uniformity of the remaining the burners (20); and modifying the combustor air distribution system so as to compensate for the increased burner pressure drop of the remaining burners, thus enabling the modified combustor to operate at a load equivalent to the unmodified combustor. Emission reduction is enabled by the increase in the gas velocity of the burner for a given load further enabled by the flame stabilizing effect of disrupting the spatial uniformity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: ALSTOM Technology Ltd.
    Inventors: Adnan Eroglu, Oliver Riccius, Klaus Knapp, Peter Flohr
  • Patent number: 7726938
    Abstract: An axial flow turbine blade and diaphragm construction comprises an annulus of static turbine blades 20 and inner and outer spacer rings 40, 42 having apertures 41, 43 shaped to accommodate inner and outer platform portions 22, 23 of the blades, whereby the platform portions and the spacer rings together form inner and outer port walls of the turbine diaphragm. A particular feature of the blades is that the inner and outer platform portions 22 and 23 have straight side edges 22B, 22C and 23B, 23C, which are joined to each other by curved leading edges 22D and 23D that in plan view have a shape that follows the edge of the corner fillet 24 in the region of the leading edge 26 of the aerofoil 21.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Alstom Technology Ltd
    Inventors: David Paul Blatchford, David John Nelmes, Bryan Vincent Coltar
  • Publication number: 20100129211
    Abstract: A compressor diaphragm for a gas turbine engine having improved wear capability, manufacturability, and assembly techniques is disclosed. The diaphragm includes a shiplap-type joint at an outer vane platform for connecting to adjacent vane assemblies and a clamshell-like assembly of a seal box secures and seals regions around the inner vane platform of the compressor diaphragm so as to reduce wear between the seal box and the vane assemblies. The inner platform of the diaphragm segments are fastened to each other through circumferentially-oriented fasteners at the inner diameter platform.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2009
    Publication date: May 27, 2010
    Applicant: ALSTOM TECHNOLOGIES LTD. LLC
    Inventors: Adam L. Hart, Charles A. Ellis, Elliot I. Goodman, W. David Day, Gerald Raresheid, James Page Strohl
  • Publication number: 20100126018
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing an airfoil assembly is described, the method comprising the steps of supplying an airfoil and a band, creating a support aperture in the band capable of receiving a portion of the airfoil, creating a slot in the band for reducing stress in the airfoil, and bonding the airfoil with the band.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2008
    Publication date: May 27, 2010
    Inventors: Mitchell Jay Headley, Stephen Joseph Gruber
  • Patent number: 7721436
    Abstract: A combustor swirler for a gas turbine engine and method of manufacturing by metal injection molding an inner component and an outer cylindrical component. Indentations are molded in one of the inner and outer components and sealed by the engagement of the components together to form a series of fluid flow passages. The inner and outer components are molded with interlocking features for ensuring proper alignment of the components during assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: Pratt & Whitney Canada Corp.
    Inventors: Lev Alexander Prociw, Harris Shafique, Aleksander Kojovic
  • Patent number: 7722314
    Abstract: A method and system for assembling a turbine is provided, wherein an annular nozzle carrier is positioned radially inwardly from a casing such that a cavity is defined between the nozzle carrier and the casing. The method and system also includes a flange that is extended from at least one of a leading edge of the annular casing and a leading edge of the nozzle carrier, and a seal ring that is extended between the nozzle carrier and the casing such that the seal ring seals the cavity, wherein the seal ring is positioned between the flange and at least one of the nozzle carrier and the casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Steven Sebastian Burdgick
  • Patent number: 7721437
    Abstract: A method facilitates assembling a combustor for a gas turbine engine, wherein the combustor includes a swirler assembly. The method comprises machining material to form a domeplate, positioning a sealplate including an overhanging portion against the domeplate, securing the sealplate in position relative to the domeplate with a welding process, and welding the swirler assembly to the domeplate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Stephen John Howell, John Carl Jacobson, Timothy P. McCaffrey, Barry Francis Barnes
  • Patent number: 7721433
    Abstract: An outer seal assembly of a turbine rotor stage is secured within a circumferential groove of the turbine casing in such a manner as to both fix the outer seal assembly in its installed position and also provide for sealing around its outer periphery so as to thereby prevent the leakage of cooling air therearound. A plurality of arcuate elements having an angle-shaped cross sectional profile are provided to interface between radially extending arms of the outer seal assembly and the inner surface of the casing, with a locking mechanism then being applied to secure the two structures in their installed positions. Each of the arcuate elements includes a radially extending panel, a plurality of forwardly extending hooks that are disposed within a groove in the casing, and a second forwardly extending flange that engages the rear surface of the outer seal assembly arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Ralph J. Thompson, Susan M. Tholen
  • Publication number: 20100124492
    Abstract: Turbine nozzles and methods of manufacturing the turbine nozzles are provided. In an embodiment, by way of example only, a turbine nozzle includes a first ring, a vane, and a first joint. The first ring comprises a single unitary component and having a first opening and including a first metal alloy. The vane includes a first end disposed in the first opening and includes a second metal alloy. The first joint is formed in the first opening between the first ring and the vane and includes a first braze layer and an oxide layer. The first braze layer is disposed adjacent to the oxide layer, and the first braze layer and the oxide layer are disposed between the first ring and the vane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2008
    Publication date: May 20, 2010
    Applicant: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Bradley Reed Tucker, Mark C. Morris, Jason Smoke, Daniel Ryan
  • Patent number: 7713022
    Abstract: A shroud for supporting a variable vane in a compressor section for a gas turbine engine includes a pair of components which are secured together by a threaded fastener extending into a blind hole in one of the two components. Additional material forms on the component which includes the blind hole extends beyond a pivot axis for the vane such that there is an increased length of engagement between the threaded fastener and the blind hole. The blind hole eliminates the need for multiple nuts and reduces the radial height of the shroud to save additional weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: United Technologies Operations
    Inventors: Daniel W. Major, Edward Torres, Joseph C. Burge
  • Publication number: 20100107639
    Abstract: A fuel nozzle configured to channel fluid toward a combustion chamber within a gas turbine engine and a method for assembling the same are provided. The fuel nozzle includes a first hollow tube fabricated from a first material that has a first coefficient of thermal expansion and a second tube fabricated from a second material that has a second coefficient of thermal expansion that is different from the first coefficient of thermal expansion. The second tube is coupled within the first tube such that the first tube substantially circumscribes the second tube, and the second tube thermally expands approximately at a same rate as the first tube during fuel nozzle operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2008
    Publication date: May 6, 2010
    Inventors: Geoffrey D. Myers, Scott Simmons, Stephen R. Thomas, Donald Mark Bailey
  • Publication number: 20100111673
    Abstract: A blade attachment apparatus for a turbine is provided and includes a member, which rotates about an axis of the turbine, including fore and aft disk posts that retain corresponding fore and aft turbine blades, respectively, fore and aft of a turbine nozzle and a central portion proximate the turbine nozzle and an attachment retained between the fore and aft disk posts and the fore and aft turbine blades and coupled to the central portion, such that a portion of the attachment interrupts a purge flow through the turbine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2008
    Publication date: May 6, 2010
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Andrew Ray Kneeland, Kahwai Gachago Muriithi
  • Publication number: 20100111670
    Abstract: A shroud hanger for a gas turbine engine has an arcuate body with opposed inner and outer faces and opposed forward and aft ends, the channel having at least one cooling passage therein which includes: (a) a generally axially-aligned channel extending through the body, the channel having one end open to an exterior of the body; and (b) a generally radially-aligned diffuser extending through the inner face and intersecting the channel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2008
    Publication date: May 6, 2010
    Applicant: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Jason David Shapiro
  • Publication number: 20100104433
    Abstract: A ceramic shroud assembly suitable for use in a gas turbine engine comprises a metal clamp ring shrink fitted around a ceramic shroud ring and an insulating and compliant interlayer. The interlayer is positioned between the metal clamp ring and the ceramic shroud ring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2006
    Publication date: April 29, 2010
    Applicant: United Technologies Corporation One Financial Plaza
    Inventors: Jun Shi, Shaoluo L. Butler, Kevin E. Green
  • Publication number: 20100098532
    Abstract: A compressor section (100) of a turbocharger (501) or other air boost device is provided that can reduce stall noise. The compressor section has a housing (110) with a blind groove (175, 275) formed therein. The blind groove (175, 275) can be in proximity to a leading edge (155) of at least one of the blades (150) and can straddle the leading edges (155) of the splitter blades (150). The blind groove (175, 275) can be formed by machining and/or casting. The blind groove (175, 275) can have a substantially uniform width and depth, and can circumscribe the impeller (130) to form a continuous annular channel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2008
    Publication date: April 22, 2010
    Applicant: BORGWARNER INC.
    Inventors: Paul D. Diemer, Edward R. Panek, David G. Grabowska
  • Publication number: 20100098533
    Abstract: A turbine housing of an exhaust gas turbocharger includes an outer casing and a rotor casing which is arranged in the outer casing and includes a tubular neck for engagement in an exhaust pipe to conduct exhaust gas from the neck in a direction of an exhaust flange. The exhaust pipe is hereby coupled to the rotor casing for relative movement there between. A sealing ring is arranged between the neck and the exhaust pipe, wherein the neck has one end provided with at least one outwardly directed projection defined by an outer diameter which is greater than an inner diameter of the sealing ring. Fabrication of the turbine housing is realized by pushing the sealing ring over the neck, and inserting an expanding mandrel into the neck to widen the neck.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2009
    Publication date: April 22, 2010
    Applicant: Benteler Automobiltechnik GmbH
    Inventors: ELMAR GRUSSMANN, Christian Smatloch
  • Publication number: 20100092278
    Abstract: A variable vane arm has a hook portion comprising a radially inner leg connected to a radially outer leg by an arcuate connection, and an actuation lever extending from the hook portion. The hook portion and actuation lever are formed from a singular piece of material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2008
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Applicant: UNITED TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Daniel W. Major, Bernard W. Pudvah
  • Publication number: 20100077612
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing an integrated seal on a component is disclosed, comprising the steps of supplying a component having an edge portion, forming a profile on the edge portion, supplying a seal, applying a bond preparation on a surface on the edge portion, applying a bonding material on the seal, mounting the seal to the edge portion, and curing the bond. A method of assembling a stator assembly is disclosed comprising the steps of providing a vane, providing a first fairing located near a first side of the vane, the first fairing having a first seal coupled to a first edge portion of the first fairing, providing a second fairing located near a second side of the vane, the second fairing having a second seal coupled to a second edge portion of the second fairing and engaging a portion of the first seal with a portion of the second seal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2008
    Publication date: April 1, 2010
    Inventors: Courtney James Tudor, Scott Alan Garten, Eli B. Kalaani, Samir Mahendra Mehta, Steven Edward Dinser
  • Patent number: 7686575
    Abstract: An inner mounting ring (20) for gas turbine flow path components such as shroud ring segments (24). The inner ring (20) may be mounted to an outer ring (22) on radially slidable mounts (26, 28) that maintain the two rings (20, 22) in coaxial relationship, but allows them to thermally expand at different rates. This allows matching of the radial expansion rate of the inner ring (20) to that of the turbine blade tips (32), thus providing reduced clearance (33) between the turbine blade tips (32) and the inner surface of the shroud ring segments (24) under all engine operating conditions. The inner ring (20) may be made of a material with a lower coefficient of thermal expansion than that of the outer ring (22).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: Siemens Energy, Inc.
    Inventors: Abdullatif M. Chehab, Scott T. Waechter, Kevin M. Light, Brian H. Terpos, Zhengxiang Pu
  • Publication number: 20100074729
    Abstract: A stack of substantially parallel ceramic plates (22) separated and interconnected by ceramic spacers (26, 27) forming a seal structure (20) with a length (L), a width (W), and a thickness (T). The spacers are narrower in width than the plates, and may be laterally offset from spacers in adjacent rows to form a space (28) in a row that aligns with a spacer in another adjacent row. An adjacent plate bends into the space when the seal structure is compressed in thickness. The spacers may have gaps (60, 62) forming a stepped or labyrinthine cooling flow path (66) within the seal structure. The spacers of each row may vary in lateral separation, thus providing a range of compressibility that varies along the width of the seal structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2009
    Publication date: March 25, 2010
    Applicant: SIEMENS ENERGY, INC.
    Inventors: Gary B. Merrill, Jay A. Morrison
  • Publication number: 20100074740
    Abstract: The invention relates to a vane ring of a turbo engine, particularly a gas turbine, comprising a vane support ring and several guide vanes that are mounted on the vane support ring. According to the invention, the vane support ring and the guide vanes are made of different materials, the materials of which the guide vanes are made being of a higher quality than the material of which the vane support ring is made.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2007
    Publication date: March 25, 2010
    Applicant: MTU AERO ENGINES, GMBH
    Inventors: Siegfried Sikorski, Max Kraus, Karl Hoffmann, Alois Niedersüss
  • Publication number: 20100068034
    Abstract: A metal vane core or strut (64) is formed integrally with an outer backing plate (40). An inner backing plate (38) is formed separately. A spring (74) with holes (75) is installed in a peripheral spring chamber (76) on the strut. Inner and outer CMC shroud covers (46, 48) are formed, cured, then attached to facing surfaces of the inner and outer backing plates (38, 40). A CMC vane airfoil (22) is formed, cured, and slid over the strut (64). The spring (74) urges continuous contact between the strut (64) and airfoil (66), eliminating vibrations while allowing differential expansion. The inner end (88) of the strut is fastened to the inner backing plate (38). A cooling channel (68) in the strut is connected by holes (69) along the leading edge of the strut to peripheral cooling paths (70, 71) around the strut. Coolant flows through and around the strut, including through the spring holes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2009
    Publication date: March 18, 2010
    Inventors: Anthony L. Schiavo, Malberto F. Gonzalez, Kuangwei Huang, David C. Radonovich
  • Publication number: 20100064516
    Abstract: A stator ring for use in a compressor of a gas turbine engine and a method of assembling the stator ring are provided. The stator ring includes a first plurality of segments that includes a first segment including a first circumferential end formed with a first cut and a second circumferential end formed with a second cut that is complementary to the first cut, wherein the first plurality of segments are configured to be circumferentially-coupled together, and a second plurality of segments that includes a second segment including a first circumferential end with a third cut and a second circumferential end with a fourth cut that is complementary to the third cut, wherein the second plurality of segments are configured to be circumferentially-coupled together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2009
    Publication date: March 18, 2010
    Inventors: David R. Spracher, Michael T. Hudson, Ronald Stuart Denmark
  • Publication number: 20100061845
    Abstract: A guide device for a turbomachine, particularly a steam turbine, with a guide vane ring and a plurality of guide vanes which are fastened to the guide vane ring so as to be distributed along the circumference of the guide vane ring. The guide vane ring has a groove, and the guide vanes also have grooves which are aligned with the groove of the guide vane ring in the assembled state. The guide vanes are fixed in their radial position at the guide vane ring by means of a retaining ring which engages in the groove of the guide vane ring and in the grooves of the guide vanes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2007
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventor: Daniela Turzing
  • Publication number: 20100054934
    Abstract: A turbocharger for a motor vehicle has a compressor housing, a turbine housing, a bearing housing, and at least one flange on the compressor side. The turbine housing is force-locked with the bearing housing by way of a fastening element that is arranged on the flange on the compressor side, thereby allowing the complete automatic assembly of the turbocharger.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2008
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Applicant: CONTINENTAL AUTOMOTIVE GMBH
    Inventors: Ralf Böning, Claus Hartmut, Dirk Frankenstein, Holger Fäth, Jochen Held, Stefan Krauss, Stefan Nowack
  • Publication number: 20100054925
    Abstract: An apparatus, especially a steam turbine, including a first delimiting part and a second delimiting part is provided. The delimiting parts are attached to one another forming a joint and enclosing at least a part of a first pressure chamber. A shielding element is also provided on the sides of the delimiting parts facing towards the first pressure chamber and is arranged to form a seal completely covering the joint, so that a cavity is formed between the delimiting parts and the shielding element. A line is routed in the cavity connecting the cavity to a second pressure chamber. In addition, a method for decreasing the force acting on a joint, which is formed by the joining together of a first delimiting part and a second delimiting part of an apparatus, especially a steam turbine, and for reducing the attachment forces acting on the joint is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2009
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Inventor: Detlef Haje
  • Publication number: 20100037616
    Abstract: A diffuser for decelerating a compressed gas, is provided, which includes a ring divided at circumferential positions around the ring into several arcuate sections, the complete ring is assembled from these sections. The ring defines one or more passages, the cross-section of which increases in the direction of flow of a fluid through the diffuser. The interface between adjacent sections is configured so that relative movement between the sections is prevented. The interface is configured to have a series of interlocking serrations along the axial length of the diffuser. In an embodiment, there are two arcuate sections involving two interfaces, and the peaks and troughs of the serrations of each of the two sections are arranged at an angle to a longitudinal axis of the diffuser. A small relative movement between the sections is achieved when the two angles at the two interfaces have opposite signs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2008
    Publication date: February 18, 2010
    Inventor: Philip Twell
  • Publication number: 20100034648
    Abstract: A method is disclosed for assembling a multi-stage compressor or a multi-stage turbine for use in a gas-turbine engine. The method comprises the steps of assembling a rotor drum so as to comprise a plurality of rotor discs 17, 18, and then releasably connecting a plurality of static components 38 to the assembled rotor drum 19, thus forming an intermediate structure. The intermediate structure is then inserted within an outer casing 50, preferably by lowering the outer casing 50 over the intermediate structure, whereafter the static components 38 are fixed to the outer casing 50. The static components 38 are then released from their connection to the rotor drum 19 in order to permit rotation of the drum 19 relative to the static components 38 and the outer casing 50.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2009
    Publication date: February 11, 2010
    Applicant: ROLLS-ROYCE PLC
    Inventor: Daniel Robertson
  • Patent number: 7654794
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for assembling steam turbines are provided. The method of assembling a steam turbine includes providing an annular outer member, providing an annular inner member, coupling a plurality of airfoils to the inner member with a plurality of generally radial fastener assemblies such that the plurality of airfoils extend substantially radially outward from the inner member, and coupling each of the plurality of airfoils to the outer member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2010
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Steven Sebastian Burdgick, Boris Ivanovitch Frolov
  • Patent number: 7645117
    Abstract: A rotary machine includes a rotor, a stationary machine casing extending around the rotor, and a bling assembly extending between the casing and the rotor. The machine also includes at least one rotor tip seal assembly and at least one shaft seal assembly. The seal assemblies have a groove configured to receive at least one seal ring band. A method of assembling a rotary machine is also provided. The method includes fabricating the bling assembly by providing two identical members comprising a mating surface and having a semi-circular profile. The method also includes coupling the two members together at their mating surfaces such that a circular ring is formed and such that the mating surfaces define a horizontal joint. The method further includes machining concentric, circular and annular radially inner and outer and airfoil portions within predetermined radial portions of the bling assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2010
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Robert James Bracken, David Orus Fitts, Sterling Hathaway, William Edward Adis, Ronald Korzun, Larry Duclos
  • Patent number: 7645120
    Abstract: A flow-guiding member unit used for assembling a flow-guiding member comprising pluralities of vanes, an outer platform and an inner platform, the unit comprising an integral body member comprising one vane portion, an outer platform portion, and an inner platform portion, a first elastic member attached to a step of the outer platform portion, and a second elastic member attached to a step of the inner platform portion, the body member being formed by the thermal compression of sheet-molding compounds or fiber-reinforced resin pellets, and the first and second elastic members being made of a thermoplastic elastomer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2010
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Keizo Matsumoto, Yasuhisa Tateoka
  • Publication number: 20090317241
    Abstract: A stator assembly for a turbine engine includes a support structure, such as an outer case, providing a bore. A non-metallic bushing is arranged in the bore and extends radially between inner and outer diameters providing a one-piece structure. The outer diameter of the bushing engages the bore in a press-fit relationship, in one example. A stator includes a trunnion arranged within and engaging the bushing inner diameter. In one example, the non-metallic bushing is constructed from an electrographitic carbon. The bushing is installed into the bore such that an end of the bushing is generally flush with or recessed from a wall on the support structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2007
    Publication date: December 24, 2009
    Inventor: Daniel W. Major
  • Publication number: 20090304503
    Abstract: The invention relates to a guide blade segment of a thermal turbomachine, in particular a gas turbine, comprising a number of profiled blades which are arranged on a platform. A plurality of securing elements for securing the guide blade segment to an associated guide blade support are arranged on the side of the platform which is oriented away from the blade. The aim of the invention is to provide a guide blade segment which can be produced in a simple and economical manner avoiding casting problem areas enabling the guide blade segment to be attached in a particularly reliable and secure manner to the associated guide blade support. According to the invention, at least one section of at least one of the securing elements is a separately produced component which is rigidly connected to the platform or to an additional section of the securing element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2007
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Inventors: Katharina Bergander, Georg Bostanjoglo, Tobias Buchal, Winfried Esser, Dirk Goldschmidt, Torsten Koch, Rudolf Küperkoch, Thorsten Mattheis, Jan Münzer, Ralf Müsgen, Matthias Oechsner, Ursula Pickert, Volker Vosberg
  • Patent number: 7618234
    Abstract: Embodiments for a compressor stator vane assembly in a gas turbine engine are disclosed. In an embodiment of the present invention a stator vane assembly is provided having a plurality of vanes each with an attachment and channels machined into the forward and aft walls of the attachment. A forward hook ring segment is pressfit into the channel in the forward wall of the attachment and an aft hook ring is pressfit into the channel in the aft wall of the attachment. The hook ring segments join a plurality of vanes together so as to provide a uniform engagement of mounting slots in the compressor case. Such an arrangement increases the contact area between the hook rings and the compressor case such that damping of individual vane vibrations are improved and operating stresses are reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Assignee: Power System Manufacturing, LLC
    Inventors: James G. Brackett, Charles Ellis, Michael Davis McGhee, J. Page Strohl