Develop Sand-Plugging Resistant Metallic Combustor Liners

PCI will develop advanced combustor liner configurations for aero gas turbine, which will eliminate or drastically reduce the dust and sand blockage of effusion cooling passages. This advanced combustor liner will utilize novel structures manufactured integral to the liner to mitigate combustor liner clogging by diverting or dislodging particles through passive aerodynamic means.  In Phase I of the program, different concepts were analytically analyzed and compared. Combustor liner coupons were tested for cold flow clog testing.  Results were promising with significant reduction in particles passing through the effusion passages.  In Phase II, PCI will optimize and implement the designs for testing at an external test lab.  A successful outcome will lead to combustor wall temperature operation according to the original clean air design specifications, thus delivering longer combustor life and lower pressure with higher engine efficiency under severe sandy and dusty environments.