Enhancing Fatigue Detection Using Multi-Parameter Sensors on Turbine Engine Blades

NCT proposes to innovatively enhance current tip timing measurements with multi-sensing capability with an NSMS probe to more accurately assess data obtained from turbine engine blades in determining fatigue life and rotor health. By having multiple parameters such as temperature, pressure, case vibration included with blade vibration and tip clearance measurements, the DAF would have data normalized to aid in fatigue analysis, reducing the test matrix and improving life prediction. This could also lead to lengthened inspection and maintenance periods. This effort will combine the data from multiple sensors and work to integrate as many as possible into the tip timing sensor form factor. NCT has previously combined tip timing and temperature measurements in the F404 turbine section with temperature instrumentation included with the NSMS probe. ĀNCT previously used temperature as a correctional factor in a successful fatigue test for a PIWG project on an F112 additively repaired rotor. NCT has over 25 years of experience in Tip Timing (NSMS) and instrumentation. This advancement is a natural progression of innovation in the NCT product line of tip timing sensors that already includes blade vibration measurement and blade tip clearance.