Patent ID: 9157139
Filing Date: 2015-10-13
Classification: B32B,C22F,F01D,F05D,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A process for combining an erosion resistant protective structure with a substrate to form a component comprising a blade having an airfoil for use in a turbine comprising: providing a substrate formed from an alloy, the substrate comprising the blade having the airfoil; providing an erosion resistant protective structure formed from a shape memory alloy exhibiting a martensite phase when cooled to a temperature equal to or less than a martensite finish temperature, and an austenite phase when heated to an austenite finish temperature less than a predefined temperature; cooling the protective structure shape memory alloy such that the shape memory alloy changes to a martensite phase; applying the protective structure to a portion of the airfoil while the shape memory alloy is in the martensite phase; heating the protective structure shape memory alloy such that the protective structure shape memory alloy changes from the martensite phase to the austenite phase and becomes mechanically coupled to the airfoil; and wherein the protective structure shape memory alloy defines a portion of the component that is exposed to a fluid passing through the turbine, and wherein the protective structure shape memory alloy covers the portion of the airfoil for protecting the portion of the airfoil from erosion caused by contact with fluid droplets.