Turbine blade variety problem overcome

Citation

(1998), "Turbine blade variety problem overcome", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 70 No. 6. https://doi.org/10.1108/aeat.1998.12770fab.012

Turbine blade variety problem overcome

Turbine blade variety problem overcome

Keywords Blades, Measurement, Moore

It is reported that the measurement and verification of aerofoil and root fixing dimensions, on a wide variety of turbine blade sizes on turbofan aero engines, has been overcome by Moore Measurement Systems of Hitchin through rapidly interchanged tooling modules associated with their gauging stations. The engines, used on the A319/320/321 Series Air Bus (power range 25,000 to 33,000lb) and on the Boeing 777 (power range 53,000 to 104,000lb) are both low noise, low emission engines.

Recently installed, the gauging stations are supplied with a series of multiplug interchangeable tooling assemblies for the dimensional verification of blade configurations at all compressor stages (Plate 10). Quick air connectors ensure instantaneous linkage to a constant mains supply. The tooling and receiver platforms are so designed that tool interchange can be performed in four minutes and the weight of the tooling elements has been tightly controlled for easy operator handling. Accurately sized master blades are used for rapid set-up of these semi-automatic gauges, which are operated by dual push buttons to ensure the operator's hands are clear when the blade is presented and retracted (Plate 11). Over 40 dimensional features are said to be measured simultaneously in under >ten seconds. A VCSII processor displays graphical and numerical results and provides statistical analysis.

Plate 10 Interchangeable blade tooling with connector transducer multiplug

Plate 11 Gauge close-up with probes engaged

For further details contact Moore Measurement Systems UK. Tel: +44 (0) 1462 424800; Fax: +44 (0) 453667; E-mail: msuksales@mooreproducts.com