Cyclic structural analyses of anisotropic turbine blades for reusable space propulsion systems

Turbine blades for reusable space propulsion systems are subjects to severe thermomechanical loading cycles that result in large inelastic strains and very short lives. These components require the use of anisotropic high temperature alloys to meet the safety and durability requirements of such systems. To assess the effects on blade life of material anisotropy, cyclic structural analyses are being performed for the first stage high pressure fuel turbopump blade (HPFTB) of the space shuttle main engine (SSME). The blade alloy is directionally solidified MAR-M 246 alloy. The analyses are based on a typical test stand engine cycle. Stress-strain histories at the airfoil critical location are computed using the MARC nonlinear finite element computer code.