Particle Ingestion Engine Sensor

Sand, dust and ash particles have significant detrimental effects on turbine engine performance and durability. Currently there are no sensors capable of recording data such as dust composition, particle size distribution, total mass, etc. and have sufficient durability for flight conditions. Lynntech and Texas A&M University propose to develop a sensor system based on a spectroscopic method integrated with a tunable size classification technique for real-time characterization of particles. During the Phase I project, characterization of standard test dust particles will be performed to identify and quantify CMAS constituents and other species such as NaCl. Particle analysis will be performed with single composition particles as well as standard test dust. Lynntech will engage with experts from the aerospace industry and within NAVIR to discuss sensor specifications and integration with an engine platform. During the option period of the Phase I project, volcanic ash simulants will be analyzed using the sensor system and functioning of the size classification technique will be demonstrated. During Phase II, the sensor system will be validated and optimized close to near-engine velocities on a test rig at Lynntech. Optimization of the sensor system design and its packaging into a ruggedized breadboard unit is also envisioned.