Ceramic matrix composite turbine vanes for gas turbine engines

Ceramic matrix composite (CMC) turbine vanes, due to their high temperature capability, allow significantly higher firing temperatures with minimal cooling. Turbine vanes were designed for a gas turbine engine with special attention to attachment methods that minimize thermal stresses due to large differences in coefficients of thermal expansion between the CMC airfoil and metal platforms. Detailed aerodynamic, thermal and structural analyses were performed to ensure component reliability. The paper describes the component design, analysis, fabrication, and rig testing of a silicon carbide fiber reinforced silicon carbide matrix (SiC/SiC) turbine vane.