Date of Award

3-2023

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Aeronautical Engineering

Department

Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics

First Advisor

Frederick R. Schauer, PhD

Abstract

Compact turbine engines are of increasing interest as a means of propulsion for small, lightweight, low cost, unmanned aerial systems. This study looks to leverage advancements in novel manufacturing technology to produce turbomachinery components while simultaneously reducing costs and manufacturing time. To determine the feasibility of drop-in replacements for stock components this study focused on several research areas. This included materials research on both polymer-reinforced and ceramic materials, specimen tensile testing to determine temperature-dependent material properties, finite element analysis of multiple candidate materials, design and fabrication of a spin test rig, and physical spin testing of manufactured components to predict performance and determine failure speeds. The results of this study demonstrate that low cost, novel technologies are viable alternatives to stock components and serve as a step forward in the feasibility of utilizing novel manufacturing technologies to develop low cost replacements for stock turbomachinery components in compact turbine engines.

AFIT Designator

AFIT-ENY-MS-23-M-301

Comments

A 12-month embargo was observed.

Approved for public release. Case number on file.

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