Heat Transfer Analysis in a Single Spool Gas Turbine by Using Calculated-Estimated Coefficients with the Finite Element Method

Abstract

In this paper, a calculation procedure is presented to estimate the heat transfer coefficients of a single spool gas turbine designed to generate 5 kN of thrust. These heat transfer coefficients are the boundary conditions which govern the heat interaction between the solid parts and the working fluid in the gas turbine. However, the calculation of these heat transfer coefficients is not a trivial task, since it depends on complex fluid flow conditions. Empirical correlations and assumptions have been used to find convective heat transfer coefficients over most components, including stator vanes, rotor blades, disc faces, and disc platforms. After defining the heat transfer coefficients, the finite element method was used to determine the temperature distribution in one eighth section of the gas turbine making use of the problem cyclic symmetry. Both static and rotating assemblies have been modeled. The results allowed the prediction of the thermal expansion behavior of the whole single spool gas turbine with special attention to the safety margin of clearances. Furthermore, having the temperature distribution defined, it is possible to calculate the thermal stresses in any mechanical component. Additionally, it is possible to specify suitable metallic alloys for achieving appropriate performance in every case. The structural integrity of all components was then assured with the temperature distribution and thermal expansion behavior under knowledge. Thus, the mechanical drawings could be released to manufacturing.