REAT-TIME TURBINE ENGINE FAULT DETECTION/CONDITION MONITORING SYSTEM (FADCoMS)

This Phase I effort proposes to develop a real-time, turbine engine fault detection/condition monitoring system that can distinguish between synchronous and non-synchronous vibration in a complex assembly of rotating components, and detect the initiation and growth of a deformation, crack, or other mechanical anomoly. A system used for detecting cracks in spin pit has reliably detected cracks approximately 0.015 n size, and has consistently shown itself to be more sensitive than FPI. During Phase I Test Devices shall develop a specification and model for a Real Time Turbine Engine Fault Detection/Condition Monitoring System (FADCMS), and perform testing to characterize and determine the sensitivity of its current crack detection system. Phase II will develop the system to detect crack indications for a complete engine. In Phase II the system will be tested in a engine environment and its ability to detect cracks within the rotating assembly over its complete power range will be demonstrated. Phase III will consist of implementing crack detection systems on military and commercial aircraft, in civilian applications like stationary power turbine crack detection and in ground-based systems for testing engine parts in Retirement For Cause applications.