VARIABLE VANE SYSTEMS

摘要

A variable vane system includes an outer platform defining a centerline axis, an inner platform radially inward from the outer platform with respect to the centerline axis and a vane extending between the inner and outer platforms defining a vane axis. The vane has an inner vane stem and an opposed outer vane stem. The inner vane stem is engaged with the inner platform and the outer vane stem is engaged with the outer platform. The system includes a bearing gap defined radially with respect to the vane axis between each of the inner and outer platforms and respective vane stems for allowing the vane to rotate about the vane axis for varying angle of attack. The system includes a pressurized air supply inlet in fluid communication with at least one of the bearing gaps to form a stem air bearing to intermittently float at least one of the vane stems for controlled rotation about the vane axis.

主权项

1. A variable vane system, comprising:
an outer platform defining a centerline axis; an inner platform radially inward from the outer platform with respect to the centerline axis; a vane extending between the inner and outer platforms defining a vane axis, the vane having an inner vane stem and an opposed outer vane stem, wherein the inner vane stem is engaged with the inner platform and the outer vane stem is engaged with the outer platform; a bearing gap defined radially between each of the inner and outer platforms and respective vane stems for allowing the vane to rotate about the vane axis; and a pressurized air supply inlet in fluid communication with at least one of the bearing gaps to form a stem air bearing to intermittently float at least one of the vane stems for controlled rotation of the vane about the vane axis.