Influence Of APS Process Parameters On Morphologies Of YSZ-Polyester Abradable Coatings

Abradable seals are used in jet engine compressor and turbine to decrease fuels consumption. Their role is to minimize the clearance between the rotating blades of an engine rotor and the stator to reduce leakages of air-fuel combustion products. Operating temperatures in turbines (up to 1800 C) can induce an expansion of blades and give rise to contacts providing blades or counter-body damages. In case of contact, the blade should remove the abradable seals applied on the stator without being damaged. Besides, the seal must be resistant to turbine environment. Direct relationships have been observed between plasma spray operating parameters and abradable coating performances. The aim of this study is to determine those relationships for YSZ-Polyester abradable composite coatings. This study is conducted within the frame of the 7FP European project E-BREAK to reach the environmental objectives of the European Advisory Council for Aviation Research and innovation.