Skip to main content
U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Application of advanced probabilistic fracture mechanics to life evaluation of turbine rotor blade attachments

Journal Article · · Journal of Engineering for Gas Turbines and Power
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1115/1.2816602· OSTI ID:244713
; ; ;  [1]
  1. Southwest Research Inst., San Antonio, TX (United States). Materials and Structures Div.

This paper describes the application of an advanced probabilistic fracture mechanics computational algorithm with inspection simulation to the probabilistic life assessment of a turbine blade attachment, sometimes referred to as a steeple or fir tree. The life of the steeple is limited by high cycle fatigue. The methodology utilized combines structural finite element analysis, stochastic fatigue crack growth, and crack inspection and repair. The resulting information provides the engineer with an assessment of the probability of failure of the structure as a function of operating time and the effect of the inspection procedure. This information can form the basis of inspection planning and retirement-for-cause decisions.

Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE
OSTI ID:
244713
Report Number(s):
CONF-950629--
Journal Information:
Journal of Engineering for Gas Turbines and Power, Journal Name: Journal of Engineering for Gas Turbines and Power Journal Issue: 2 Vol. 118; ISSN 0742-4795; ISSN JETPEZ
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English