High-Temperature Erosion of Plasma-Sprayed, Yttria-Stabilized Zirconia in a Simulated Turbine Environment

A series of rig calibration and high-temperature tests simulating gas path seal erosion in turbine engines were performed at three impingement angles and at three downstream locations. Plasma-sprayed, yttria-stabilized zirconia specimens were tested. Steady-state erosion curves were presented for 19 test specimens indicate a brittle type of material erosion despite scanning electron microscopy evidence of plastic deformation. Steady-state erosion results were not sensitive to downstream location but were sensitive to impingement angle. At different downstream locations specimen surface temperature varied from 1250 to 1600 C (2280 to 2900 F) and particle velocity varied from 260 to 320 m/s (850 to 1050 ft/s). The mass ratio of combustion products to erosive grit material was typically 240. Originator furnished key words include: High-temperature erosion; Gas turbine seals; Plasma-sprayed zirconia; Solid particle impingement.