Innovative CMC Preforming for Molding Turbine Vanes with Integral Cooling Cavities(1001-102)

Ceramic Matrix Composites (CMC) materials have the potential of improving engine performance by lowering emissions and enabling higher cycle efficiency. The benefits of CMC turbine engine components may be extended by development fabrication process that integrates cooling system similar to the one currently used for the metallic counterparts. Triton Systems Inc (Triton) proposes to demonstrate a unique CMC preform construction enabling production of complex-shaped CMC components with integral, internal cooling passages. Triton will team with the Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology, Inc. (CCAT) Laser Applications Laboratory to machine cooling holes to connect the internal cavity with the composite exterior. Configuration design guidance and future component test recommendations will be contributed by turbine engine contractor LibertyWorks - Rolls Royce North American Technologies (LibertyWorks). Triton’s Dispersed Filament Preforming fabrication technology, a novel ceramic matrix composite (CMC) preforming approach, will allow for effective reinforcement of tight corner and bend radii prevalent in gas turbine hot section components. In combination with the development of new molding process which incorporates sacrificial male mandrel for internal cavity and development of novel machining methods for introduction of cooling holes, a unique fabrication technology for effective cooling system for complex-shaped ceramic based turbine engine components will be advanced.