Patent ID: 6709231
Filing Date: 2004-03-23
Classification: F01D

Abstract:
A stator (11) of a variable-geometry axial turbine (1) for aeronautical applications; the stator (11) having an axis (3) and comprising an annular duct (30) delimited radially by an annular outer surface (27) and by an annular inner surface (28); an array of airfoil profiles (33) housed in said duct (30), each airfoil profile (33) in a position angularly equidistant from an adjacent airfoil (33) profile about said axis (3) and each airfoil profile (33) comprising an associated pair of end edges (59, 60), wherein one end edge (59) is opposite the other end edge (60), and, wherein the end edges (59, 60) are a predetermined clearance from said outer and inner surfaces (27, 28); characterised in that said airfoil profiles (33) are rotatable with respect to said outer and inner surfaces (27, 28) about respective axes of adjustment (40) incident to said axis (3) and in that the airfoil profiles (33) comprise means for maintaining (66, 67) said airfoil profiles (33) a predetermined clearance from said outer and inner surfaces (27, 28) in order to maintain a substantially constant clearance between said outer and inner surfaces (27, 28) and said end edges (59, 60) when the angular position of said airfoil profiles (33) is varied.