A turning point occurred in naval engineering in 1972 when the U.S. N avy chose to use marine gas turbines for the propulsion of its new SPRUANCE and PERRY Class ships. This paper reviews the more than twenty years of...
A turning point occurred in naval engineering in 1972 when the U.S. N avy chose to use marine gas turbines for the propulsion of its new SPRUANCE and PERRY Class ships. This paper reviews the more than twenty years of experience with turbine technology and its design integration into combat ships needed to make that decision. It is concluded that the availability of a good second generation aircraft derivative engine with proven reliability and a strong commercial base, i.e., the LM-2500, was as important to the decision as was the predicted improved ship effectiveness and cost benefits. This paper discusses improvements that can be made to the twin engine, single gear, single propeller shaft system. Focusing only on this mechanical transmission concept, it addresses the impact of possible improvements to the engine, gear, and shafting. In particular, the paper discusses current LM-2500 related R&D efforts to: (a) obtain improved part-power fuel rates, (b) integrate with a reversing reduction gear, and (c) add on a waste heat recovery steam cycle. Looking ahead to the year 2000, this paper suggests that a successor to the ubiquitous LM-2500 will appear in the 15 MW power range to provide the next step in the evolution of the twin engine package. This new naval engine will most likely be based on an aircraft core that exists at present, such that it will have demonstrated its reliability and commercial potential through many hours of testing prior to its mid-1990 marine conversion. This new engine is expected to offer improved air flow, an excellent fuel rate (approaching a flat 0.30 LB/HP-HR), and effective maintenance monitoring, all at some expense in size, weight, and cost. The year 2000 engine will burn a liquid hydrocarbon fuel similar to JP-5 because of its aircraft origins. Combined with advances in gear and shafting technology, the full twin engine propulsion system of the year 2000 should be markedly lighter, smaller, and more efficient than today's units.
暂无评论