Innovations in Turbine Blade Manufacturing

Author:  John H. Glenn Research Center, Cleveland, OH, Argonne National Laboratory
Source:  The Shot Peener magazine, Vol 29, Issue 1, Winter 2015
Doc ID:  2015008
Year of Publication:  2015
Abstract:  
Composite turbine blades are currently fabricated by laying up multiple layers of fibers in the form of either unidirectional prepregs or thin woven cloth. Composites formed in this manner have poor through-thickness strength. It is also difficult, if not impossible, to form trailing edges as thin as necessary for optimum engine performance. Manufacturers of turbine engines for airplanes, automobiles and electric generation plants could expedite the development of more durable, energy-efficient turbine blades thanks to a partnership between the U.S. Department of Energy’s Argonne National Laboratory, the German Aerospace Center and the universities of Central Florida and Cleveland State.