Research on an EPHM Methodology Based on Gas Path Performance Parameters

Gas path faults in aero-engines are a major factor affecting flight safety and maintenance costs. To achieve the transition from time-based maintenance to condition-based maintenance and enhance fault prediction and health management capabilities, this paper conducts research on intelligent diagnostic methods based on performance parameters for engine gas path components. Firstly, a component-level nonlinear steady-state model of a dual-spool turbofan engine is established, employing a variable specific heat capacity method to improve computational accuracy and provide a healthy baseline for diagnosis. Secondly, addressing the strong nonlinearity and measurement underdeterminacy in fault diagnosis, a diagnostic framework integrating a multi-population genetic algorithm and multi-operating-point analysis is proposed. The multi-population genetic algorithm effectively enhances global optimization capability and solution stability through parallel evolution, migration operators, and an elite population strategy; multi-operating-point data increases information content and strengthens fault isolation capability. Finally, simulation experiments under ground test conditions are conducted to validate the diagnosis of single-component faults in the low-pressure compressor, high-pressure compressor, high-pressure turbine, and low-pressure turbine. The results show that the proposed method can accurately invert component performance degradation, with a high fault identification accuracy rate, verifying the effectiveness of the proposed model and algorithm. This research provides a feasible technical solution for intelligent condition monitoring and precise diagnosis of aero-engines.