High-Temperature Turbine Monitoring and Control System Navy SBIR FY2006.2 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2006.2 Topic No.: N06-111 Topic Title: High-Temperature Turbine Monitoring and Control System Proposal No.: N062-111-0561 Firm: Luna Innovations Incorporated 1703 S Jefferson Street, SW Suite 400 Roanoke, Virginia 24016 Contact: Matthew Palmer Phone: (540) 769-8400 Web Site: www.lunainnovations.com Abstract: Luna Innovations Incorporated will work with our existing gas turbine engine OEM partners to develop durable, high-temperature fiber optic pressure sensors and prognosis system for compressor and combustor health monitoring in military turbine engines. Luna has already demonstrated un-cooled gas pressure measurements at 500psig and 1050�C and in a running P&W JT-15D at temperatures in excess of 500�F. High temperature pressure sensors will enable extended maintenance intervals through improved prognosis of turbine engines based on real operating conditions and/or by active control to avoid stressful operation. The proposed sensors and system will be designed to track numerous failure modes of interest, with the system being capable of measuring pressure, temperature, strain, vibration, and other parameters. During Phase I Luna will develop pressure sensors to meet existing needs determined by its OEM partner and demonstrate that the prototypes can capture the information desired and meet durability requirements. Luna and OEM partner will determine sensor housing designs for integration with suitable engines and life management strategies. Improved prognosis capabilities enabled by implementing Luna's sensors with existing engine life management algorithms/strategies will be estimated. Phase II will optimize the system design commercialization, demonstrate durability, accuracy, and begin initial field trials. Benefits: The DOD maintenance budget for gas turbine engine sustainment was $2.2 billion in FY 00. If even a 1% reduction in sustainment costs can be realized, $22 million per year can be saved by the DOD. High-temperature pressure sensors have been identified by PIWG (Propulsion Instrumentation WorkGroup) as needed for active combustion control and for reduced surge margin for improved engine life management. Fiber optic sensors are the only technology capable of addressing this harsh environment. The proposed monitoring system will be applicable to not only heavy lift helicopter engines, but to all gas turbines, including those used in fighter aircraft, tanks, ships and power generation. Finally, Luna will market the sensors and signal conditioning system directly to government, commercial, and university R&D labs as part of Luna's R&D instrumentation product line. Return