FAULT TOLERANCE OF GTE BLADES

The problem of gas-turbine-engine [GTE] blade fault tolerance is examined from the viewpoint of linear fracture mechanics. We study the process of fatigue crack growth in the blade with the random block/harmonic loading that is characteristic for the operating conditions. We establish the statistical relations governing the behavior of a crack in the blade and propose a technique for evaluating the reliability and the service life of the engine after the appearance of a crack in the blade. The results of the study can be used to ensure engine safety and reliability in the stages of the designing, the developing of the blade fabrication technology, and in selecting the operational blade monitoring techniques.