Aanya Menon
Independent Researcher
India
Abstract
This manuscript presents a comprehensive investigation of thermo‐mechanical fatigue (TMF) phenomena in gas turbine blades, focusing exclusively on technologies and methodologies available up to the end of 2018. The study synthesizes metallurgical principles, experimental techniques, and analytical models to elucidate the initiation and propagation of fatigue cracks under cyclic thermal and mechanical loading. Key aspects include microstructural evolution in nickel‐based superalloys, the role of thermal barrier coatings, strain‐controlled TMF testing protocols, and finite element simulations. Two detailed case studies from leading aero‐engine manufacturers illustrate practical challenges and mitigation strategies. Methodological emphasis is placed on test rig design, strain measurement via high‐temperature extensometry, and post‐test metallography. Results highlight critical temperature ranges for fatigue life reduction, the influence of hold times, and coating performance. The conclusion offers guidance on design improvements and life prediction, all contextualized within the state of the art as of 2018.
Keywords
Thermo‐mechanical fatigue; gas turbine blades; nickel superalloys; thermal barrier coatings; strain‐controlled testing
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