Fluid flow inspection apparatus and method for gas turbine buckets

• Main Authors: Zabala, Robert John, Knudsen, Bruce Alan
• Format: Patent
• Language: English
• Published: 14.01.2003

In order to improve the performance of gas turbines, higher operating temperatures are required. These higher temperatures require supplemental cooling of the bucket via radial and serpentine cooling passageways in the buckets. Air cooled gas turbine buckets are typically cooled by bringing compressor discharge air into the wheel and channeling the air into dovetail slots between the wheel and turbine buckets through the entrance apertures of the cooling passageways. An inspection apparatus for water flow testing of cooling passageways in gas turbine buckets provides observable visual determination of whether any blockages were formed during the manufacturing or refurbishing processes. The inspection apparatus includes a manifold block and manifold control valve mounted on a platform and adapted to engage the root end of a turbine bucket and supply fluid therethrough. The turbine bucket is affixed to the platform with a holder. The fluid exiting at the tip of the turbine bucket is visible and any blockages in the passageways will be easily discerned by the absence or paucity of fluid flow at the tip. Fluid is supplied to the manifold block by a pressure regulated fluid supply line with a control valve and a flow meter. An air supply line is also connected to the manifold block to supply air through the passageways to remove residual fluid from the bucket.