Ultra-High Range Thermocouples for Turbine Applications

An approach is proposed to integrate materials into harsh environment diagnostic systems capable of measuring temperatures of 3500°F.  Sensor prototypes of both noble metal and ceramic thermocouples will be fabricated and assessed to determine which iterations exhibit the most favorable characteristics required for use at ultra-high temperature.  MesoScribe Technologies will apply its Mesoplasma Direct Write process, a high-precision derivative of thermal spray technology, to fabricate the selected materials as durable sensor architectures.  The proposed sensors are anticipated to enable robust direct monitoring of turbine inlet temperature which will minimize fuel consumption while maximizing turbine efficiency and life BENEFITS: The capability to directly monitor the ultra-high temperature of the turbine section of an aircraft engine currently is extremely limited. The proposed sensors are anticipated to enable robust direct monitoring of turbine inlet temperature which will minimize fuel consumption while maximizing turbine efficiency and life. Turbine inlet thermocouple sensors will be developed for use in extreme environments and are applicable to both aerospace as well as power generating turbine systems. Other extreme temperature applications for the proposed thermocouple sensors are hypersonic propulsion systems and thermal protection systems.