The Integration of New Aero-Thermal and Combustion Technologies with Long-term Design Philosophies for Gas Turbine Engines.

 

Dr Ronald S Bunker, General Electric Corporate Research and Development, Schenectady, USA.

 

Gas turbine engine technologies are at this time reaching the practical boundaries for firing temperatures as dictated by the increased requirements of emissions, availability, and life cycle costs. As we move forward into new technologies for the further improvement of turbine engines, we must pro-actively integrate such technologies with the long-term goals of durability, sustained performance, and repair-ability. The “old” model of design-test-redesign is no longer economically acceptable. The previous philosophies associated with technology development and introduction must be changed to accommodate modern and future needs for robust and flexible energy and power systems over the full range of power densities and unit sizes.

This paper provides an overview of the critical focus areas required for all new and improved turbine engines. Individual technology challenges will be highlighted both with respect to performance and design productivity. Specific examples of new and emerging systems will be used to demonstrate the necessity for an integrated approach to satisfying both technical advancement and long-term, reliable operability. In the applications to gas turbine engines, specific attention will be placed on the technologies for compressors, combustion systems, and turbine hot gas path parts. A summary of the key technical areas for US – Ukraine research and development collaboration will be discussed in some detail.