Life enhancement of Nozzle Guide Vane of an Aero Gas Turbine Engine through Pack Aluminization

Pack aluminization of high pressure turbine nozzle guide vane of an aero gas turbine engine has been carried out following a well defined systematic procedure. The process parameters are first optimized on dummy vanes and optimized process is followed for the actual vanes for evaluation and testing. Visual and binocular examination followed by metallurgical evaluation have been carried out to validate the process and to establish the adequacy and correctness of the coating. The coated vanes are then evaluated through engine level tests for performance and durability. The results of engine level tests and inspection post accelerated mission test cycles ensure that the vanes with aluminide coating can withstand severe engine operating cycles without any damage or failure which would otherwise would have happened without the coating. The condition of vanes post endurance test is also an indication of enhanced life of the vanes with coating.