Patent ID: 8128371
Filing Date: 2012-03-06
Classification: F01D,F05D,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A method of assembling a turbine, said method comprising: coupling a plurality of buckets that each include a dovetail to a turbine wheel, wherein the turbine wheel includes a plurality of retaining slots defined therein that are sized to receive each of the plurality of bucket dovetails therein, the turbine wheel also includes at least one projection extending outward from the turbine wheel and a shelf formed thereon; coupling a first end of a cover plate to the turbine wheel such that the at least one projection retains the cover plate in a position relative to the turbine wheel; inserting a fastening mechanism through an opening defined in the turbine wheel to secure the cover plate against the turbine wheel such that the cover plate facilitates reducing dovetail leakage across the plurality of buckets coupled to the turbine wheel adjacent to the cover plate; and biasing, via the shelf, a second end of the cover plate in sealing contact against the turbine wheel, such that an outer surface of the cover plate contacts an inner surface of at least one of at least one retainer extending from the turbine wheel and at least one retainer extending from an adjacent turbine component.