Axial Turbine Blade Tips: Function, Design, and Durability

An overview of the science and technology involved in today's turbine engines is presented with specific focus on the critical rotational-to-stationary interfaces comprising axial turbine blade tips. The purpose is to provide a concise informative review of turbine blade tip functional, design, and durability issues. Neither a historical account nor a bibliography is presented. Attention is paid primarily to the most challenging blade tips in high-pressure, high-temperature gas turbine systems, although most of the science discussed applies equally well to blade tips in low-pressure turbines, as well as steam turbines. As such, a wide range of both aircraft engine and power generating turbine systems are considered. Basic functional requirements, turbine systems design aspects, and transient operational considerations affecting blade tips and affected by blade tips are discussed in light of the multidisciplinary tradeoffs involved in a successful design. The three dominant design philosophies for blade tips in practice today are presented with detailed examination of the aerodynamics, heat transfer, and cooling benefits and detractors. Finally, the in-service durability aspects of turbine blade tips are noted.