The objective of the CATE program was to apply ceramic components to the hot flow path of an existing vehicular gas turbine engine and thereby demonstrate the feasibility of structural ceramic components. To accomplish this the Allison IGT 404-4 gas turbine engine has operated at successively higher temperatures made possible by the introduction of ceramic components with performance and component durability demonstrations. Extensive ceramic material characterization, supplier process development work, development of non-destructive inspection (NDI) techniques, rig ceramic component development and proof testing, and engine demonstration testing have been conducted.
This paper describes the CATE Project concept for development testing of ceramic components for use in vehicular gas turbine engines. Included will be the approach to development testing, a description of the CATE GT 404 engine and the ceramic components designed for that engine, a summary of the development test experience accumulated on the ceramic components, an assessment of the results and benefits gained from the program, and recommendations for follow-on component development work.
Study and program plan for improved heavy duty gas turbine engine ceramic component development
