Vibrations of the LH2 Turbine Rotor During the Vinci Engine Test: Tip Timing Measurements and Predictions
A test campaign with the purpose of demonstrating new technologies introduced in the Vinci engine was performed in 2008. One of these new technologies is the blisk technology included in the LH2 fuel and LOX oxidizer pump turbines, for which Volvo Aero Corporation has the design responsibility. A challenge with blisks in rotating machinery is the risk of large amplitude vibrations due to low damping. To address the mechanical integrity of the Vinci LH2 turbine rotor blisk with respect to vibrations, an advanced blade vibration measurement system using the blade tip timing method was designed and implemented in close cooperation with the subcontractor AGILIS. The implementation of tip timing for measuring the blade vibrations of the Vinci LH2 blisk was recognized as a challenging application for this kind of measurement system. The conditions in the LH2 turbine are harsh with temperatures down to about 80 K with high pressure and hydrogen environment. Nevertheless, these challenges were systematically investigated rendering a successful implementation. The detailed analysis of the tip timing test data provided unique information for validation. More resonances than expected were confirmed. The responses, however, were modest rendering a low risk for HCF in the test. The most severe resonance in the test with respect to HCF was excited by the second stator harmonics. It was excited several times in the test campaign at about 69200 rpm. This resonance was also pointed out in the design process as being the worst one with respect to HCF. Hence, even though the test data revealed more resonances than expected, the most critical one was identified by the VAC design tool prior to the test. The agreement in predictions and test results for the critical mode was very good with respect to both frequency and response. This statement of very good agreement also applies to the frequencies associated with the other resonances in the test.