Ultrahigh-Pressure Waterjets for Coke Removal in Jet Engine Fuel Tubes, with Laser-Optic Inspection
Abstract
Phase I feasibility was shown for the dual new technologies of UHP waterjet cleaning and laser-optic inspection of coke-encrusted jet engine fuel manifolds. Hard deposits build inside long, convoluted, small-diameter tubes and frequently require tube replacement. Ultrahigh-pressure waterjets were evaluated as an economical and environmentally friendly means to completely remove coke deposits without detriment to tube walls. A laser- optic surface mapping method was evaluated as a technology that could provide both quantitative measurement of tube inner diameters, with up to 0.001 inch accuracy, and qualitative imaging of the inner tube surface. The cleaning study showed that plain waterjets can controllably remove the subject carbon deposits. While low pressure was effective on lighter deposits, maximum pressure (as high as 55,000 psi) was important for heavy deposits and blockages. Hardware assemblies were developed and successfully demonstrated for packaging the jets for use in tubes. Laser-optics were breadboarded in a package suitable for the tube size and demonstrated successfully. It was found that laser-optic data could produce both digital video images and accurate dimensional information. These cleaning and inspection technologies have flexibility for alternate uses, including heat exchanger tubes and process piping. Preliminary commercial systems will be prototyped in Phase II.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1996
- Accession Number
- ADA368857
Entities
People
- D. E. Steele
- D. O. Monserud
- J. L. Doyle
- P. J. Miles