Small Turbine Technology: Challenges in the 80's

There is a need to further improve the performance and cost of small turbine engines. This can best be achieved by designing a more efficient turbine hot section (combustor and turbine) that incorporates advancements in turbine aerodynamics, heat transfer, mechanical design, and material technology.

Recent accomplishments include (1) development of advanced 3-D design methods; (2) better understanding of the flow physics associated with cooling air discharge, gas path leakage, tip leakage, and disk cavity discharge; and (3) advancement in material technology and fabrication techniques. These accomplishments have led to efficient high heat-release-rate combustors and efficient, highly loaded turbines to improve the engine performance, reliability, and weight without jeopardizing the life of the components.