An Embedded, Physics-Based Approach for Turboshaft Engine Continuous Power Assurance and Performance Monitoring

The following paper describes a method for continuous engine monitoring and power assurance calculations of a turboshaft engine which was developed in the scope of the U.S. Army Operations Support & Sustainment Technologies program. Degradation of engine components such as compressor and turbine can reduce engine power output and shorten engine life. The engine component degradation occurs either gradually through mechanical or thermal erosion or instantaneously due to discrete events such as foreign object damage or sudden internal engine component failures. The method in this paper describes an approach of using a high-fidelity aero-thermo engine model to continuously identify and monitor both gradual and sudden engine component degradation prior to severe engine performance loss. The study shows the advantages of combining continuous engine health monitoring and engine power assurance capability in order to provide a powerful aircraft embeddable method for engine performance and power assurance computations. Health indicators from the algorithm will provide guidance for engine maintenance, pilot decision support and will greatly automate daily power check procedures minimizing the pilot workload.