Simple CMC fastening system
AssigneeUnited Technologies Corporation
InventorsConnie E. Bird, Lisa A. Prill
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A simple ceramic matrix composite fastening system that is utilized for attaching components of dissimilar materials, particularly, ceramic matrix composites (CMCs) and metallic engine components. The system is comprised of a detachable subassembly bracket fabricated from metal. The bracket has a metallic engine component attached to one end and a CMC component attached to the other end. The bracket releasably secures the CMC and the metallic component together using rivets or pins, which are inserted into holes through the CMC to securely fasten the adjoining parts.
Claims17
An apparatus for fastening a ceramic matrix composite (CMC) to a non-ceramic matrix component, said apparatus comprising:
- a detachable subassembly bracket having a configuration with a plurality of apertures therethrough;
- a plurality of fasteners receivable through said apertures;
- and
- a spring;
- said spring adapted to be inserted in a slot between said bracket and said ceramic matrix composite;
- said spring capable of dampening vibrations,
- wherein said bracket has a first end that is adapted to be in direct contact with the ceramic matrix composite via said fasteners and has a second end that is adapted to be secured to the non-ceramic matrix component.
An apparatus for fastening a ceramic matrix composite (CMC) to a metallic engine component, said apparatus comprising:
- a detachable subassembly bracket having a configuration with a plurality of apertures and a slot therethrough;
- a plurality of fasteners receivable in said apertures and through said slot;
- and
- a spring;
- said spring adapted to be inserted in said slot between said bracket and said ceramic matrix composite;
- said spring capable of dampening vibrations,
- wherein said bracket is adapted to be received by said ceramic matrix composite in said slot at one end;
- said ceramic matrix composite adapted to be secured to said bracket via said plurality of fasteners;
- said bracket being adapted to be secured to the metallic engine component at an opposite end.
An apparatus for fastening a ceramic matrix composite (CMC) to a metallic engine component, said apparatus comprising:
- a detachable subassembly bracket having a configuration with an aperture and a slot therethrough;
- a fastener receivable in said aperture and through said slot;
- and
- a spring;
- said spring adapted to be inserted in said slot between said bracket and said ceramic matrix composite;
- said spring capable of dampening vibrations, wherein said bracket is adapted to be received by said ceramic matrix composite in said slot at one end;
- said fastener is adapted to secure said ceramic matrix composite in said bracket thereby;
- and said bracket being adapted to be secured to the engine component at an opposite end thereof.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.