Failure Analysis of an Inter-shaft Bearing of an Aero Gas Turbine Engine

Failure of an inter-shaft bearing in an aero gas turbine engine is investigated to determine its root cause. Teardown inspections followed by metallurgical investigations are carried out on the parts of the failed bearing. None of the components of the bearing has shown any discolouration, wear, or...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of failure analysis and prevention 2015-04, Vol.15 (2), p.205-210
Main Authors: Mishra, R. K., Muduli, S. K., Srinivasan, K., Ahmed, S. I.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Aerospace engines
Aircraft components
Bearing
Case History > -Peer-Reviewed
Characterization and Evaluation of Materials
Chemistry and Materials Science
Classical Mechanics
Corrosion and Coatings
Failure analysis
Fatigue failure
Gas turbine engines
Heating
Materials Science
Quality Control
Reliability
Rotor speed
Safety and Risk
Solid Mechanics
Tribology
Vibration
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Summary:Failure of an inter-shaft bearing in an aero gas turbine engine is investigated to determine its root cause. Teardown inspections followed by metallurgical investigations are carried out on the parts of the failed bearing. None of the components of the bearing has shown any discolouration, wear, or overheating marks. But severe flaking is observed on one side of the outer raceway. It indicates progressive fatigue due to overload. Insufficient clearance due to differential expansion of inner ring and contraction of outer ring due to heating and cooling, respectively, can also result in this type of phenomena. Maintaining oil discipline and using correct grade of oil at proper frequency can address these issues. A comprehensive engine-bearing prognostic approach may be followed utilizing available sensor information on-board the aircraft such as rotor speed, vibration, lube system information, and aircraft maneuvers to predict bearing life and incipient bearing failure.
ISSN:1547-7029
1728-5674
1864-1245
DOI:10.1007/s11668-015-9933-8