Fiber Optic, Single-Point Sensors for High-Temperature Gas Turbine Applications

70018 The accurate measurement of gas flow conditions in the compressors, combustors, and turbines of gas turbine engines is needed to assess performance, predict failure, and facilitate data-driven maintenance. Fatigue of high-temperature turbine components is a leading source of failure and necessitates excessive design margins or early replacement. This project will develop a ceramic pressure and temperature sensor capable of simultaneously measuring temperature and pressure within the hottest regions of modern and emerging utility gas turbines (1400¿C). These sensor transducers will be interrogated with optical fiber, instead of electrical leads, and have exceptional accuracy and temperature stability, compared to state-of-the-art piezo sensor technology. In Phase I, fiber optic temperature sensors were demonstrated to 1100¿C. Both pressure and temperature sensor designs were developed for operation up to 1400¿C. Rugged, high-temperature fiber optic cabling, capable of withstanding a harsh, industrial environment, was also demonstrated. Finally, a low-cost fiber optic readout system was designed and demonstrated. Phase II will continue the development of the fiber optic pressure and temperature sensors. Extensive testing will be conducted in combustion tubes and on operational utility gas turbines. A fiber optic readout system will be optimized for use in the utility gas turbine environment. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by awardee: These sensors not only should be applicable to utility gas turbine engines, but also should find use in fuel cells, geo-thermal power production, and possibly high-temperature nuclear reactor applications.