Advanced Technologies For Turbomachinery Systems - An Overview

Abstract

Any performance gain in a turbomachinery system requires some advancements in a number of technological areas. The components (compressor, combustor, and turbine), materials, structural integrity, lubrication, bearings, sealing, and controls all must respond positively to a new and usually more demanding environment. For more than 35 years a continuing fundamental and applied research program has been conducted at the NASA (formerly NACA) Lewis Research Center. Although about 10 years of this research program has been directed at advancements for aerospace propulsion and power generation systems, it provided considerable technology for a wide range of turbomachinery. Currently a significant portion of this research is conducted in the Science and Technology Directorate at Lewis. This paper presents a brief overview of and status report on the research being conducted or sponsored by the S&T Directorate to further advance the technology for turbomachinery systems.