Session: 24-02 Additive Manufacturing Applications in Engines

Paper Number: 154010

Evaluation of Carbon Fiber Reinforced PEEK for Utilization with a Centrifugal
Compressor 

Small turbine engines are efficient, reliable, and versatile and are used in many different facets within the aerospace realm. Analogous to/for any other turbine engine, large or small, decreasing the weight of these systems is always beneficial. A small turbine engine often consists of a single stage impeller which is efficient and can produce a high-pressure ratio. These compressor components are often in a relatively low thermal environment since they are within the inlet portion of the engine. This invites the opportunity to use alternative materials while withstanding test conditions under relevant temperatures. One material specifically, polyether ether ketone (PEEK), is known to be lightweight, has good mechanical performance, has resistance to moderately high temperatures with operating temperature up to 480 degrees Fahrenheit, and has resistance to chemicals. The impeller from the commercial off the shelf (COTS) engine is an aluminum alloy, by using PEEK it’s achievable to decrease this component’s weight by 50%. PEEK with 100% composition is known as pure PEEK is used but more commonly, fiber glass or carbon fiber, is introduced and infused to increase the strength of the material, improve tribological performance, and amplify thermal conductivity. Because of this, a chopped carbon fiber filament was used to 3D print both specimens and impellers to observe tensile, fatigue, and geometric results. This document uses the acquired fundamental material tests to evaluate the feasibility of application and operation of a centrifugal compressor with PEEK and any potential failing mechanisms.

Presenting Author: Justin Warner AFRL

Presenting Author Biography: Justin Warner works for the Air Force Research Laboratory at Wright Patterson Air Force Base and has obtained his Bachelor's degree from Wright State University and his Master's from Ohio State University.

Authors:

Justin Warner AFRL
Tommy George AFRL
Dino Celli AFRL
Trevor Tomlin AFRL
Rachel Tullis National Research Council
Bryan Langley AFRL