Methods for complex geometry mandrel removal of ceramic matrix composite components
AssigneeRtx Corporation
InventorsRobert A. White, III, Andrew Joseph Lazur, Mary Colby, Howard J. Liles, Robin H. Fernandez
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A mandrel suitable for supporting an airfoil preform includes a first piece extending along a longitudinal axis of the mandrel, and a second piece in physical contact with the first piece at first interface region and extending along the longitudinal axis of the mandrel. The first piece is formed from a first material, and the second piece is formed from a second material.
Claims20
A mandrel suitable for supporting an airfoil preform, the mandrel comprising:
- a first piece extending along a longitudinal axis of the mandrel;
- and
- a second piece in physical contact with the first piece at first interface region, and extending along the longitudinal axis of the mandrel;
- wherein the first piece is formed from a first material;
- and
- wherein the second piece is formed from a second material.
A mandrel suitable for supporting an airfoil preform, the mandrel comprising:
- a first piece formed from a first material;
- and
- a second piece formed from a second material and in physical contact with the first piece at an interface region;
- wherein the interface region extends along a transverse axis of the mandrel.
A method of forming a ceramic matrix composite (CMC) airfoil, the method comprising:
- wrapping a ceramic fabric around a mandrel;
- densifying the ceramic fabric using chemical vapor infiltration (CVI) to form the CMC airfoil;
- and
- removing the mandrel from the CMC airfoil by:
- pulling a first piece of the mandrel out from a hollow core of the airfoil;
- and
- pulling a second piece of the mandrel out from the hollow core of the airfoil.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.