In order to maximize efficiency in modern gas turbine engines, manufacturers have developed methods of obtaining minimal clearance between rotating turbine blade tips and stationary engine casings. One method utilized involves allowing the tips of the turbine blades to wear into a rub tolerant surface on the casing. This ensures that when the blades are fully extended due to centrifugal forces during engine operation, only a minimal leak path will exist for the hot gas across the tips of the blades.
In order to minimize blade tip wear, engine manufacturers are now designing blade tips with wear resistant coatings. VAC AERO has developed an HVOF CoCrAlY coating that fulfills this application.
For more information please visit our Coatings division.