Integrated Approach to Design and Manufacture of Gas Turbine Components Based on Group Theory

Abstract

This paper deals with a new method that provides an integrated approach to design and manufacture of gas turbine components by using the group theory and customising standard computer aided design and manufacturing system. With this approach time consuming and iterative design procedure and process planning are automated and become more efficient. Due to the intricate and diverse nature of gas turbine components, grouping them is not easy as in other industries. A possible way of grouping the gas turbine components based on design and manufacturing attributes on a broad basis is presented. A case study of high pressure turbine disc is included with illustrations for design and process planning of this component. The proposed system is implemented on a personal computer and offers an alternate solution to sophisticated and expensive main frame based systems.