Turbine Engine Slip Ring Technology- A Survey

Aircraft turbine engine development is requiring more and more spool data to be recorded during testing. This data, which normally consists of thermocouple and strain gage type signals, demands so many channels of quality transmission as to preclude bulky and costly telemetry devices.

Miniature slip ring capsule assemblies, originally developed for inertial navigation equipment, have been adapted and used in turbine applications at speeds in excess of 30,000 revolutions per minute. These slip ring and brush contacts are characterized by low resistance variation or other electrical interference. The principal adaptation required to achieve these life times is the provision of an adequate coolant/lubricant supply.