Internal

Project Description:

Solar Turbines manufactures and packages industrial gas turbines, compressors, generator sets, pump drivers, and energy storage solutions for both the power generation and oil & gas markets. Ancillary inlet systems provide clean, filtered air to the turbine during operation. Air inlet systems require filter housings, silencers, ducts and flexible elements connected by bolted flanges. The student team will focus on developing a quick-disconnect system for the air inlet flange, shown in the figure below. Solar’s goal is to reduce the time required to disconnect, reconnect and re-torque this flange. The team will investigate options for replacing the bolts with quick disconnects and optimize the number of connection points with the final objective to reduce the installation time. 

Objective:

The team will start by conducting research, design ideas, and collaborating with Solar Turbines mentors. The team will propose and evaluate multiple designs for technical viability, cost, personnel required, envelope size, special tools required and time to connect. Analysis will be performed on the selected concept to minimize the number of connection points and validate the design to maintain sealing (clamping force) and structural integrity of the flanges. Finally, the team will propose a prototype test rig and test plan to validate their design. The team will assemble the test rig, perform and document the testing.