Experimental crack propagation and failure analysis of the first stage compressor blade subjected to vibration

This paper presents results of experimental vibration tests of the helicopter turbo-engine compressor blades. The blades used in investigation were retired from maintenance under technical inspection of engine. Investigations were conducted for selected undamaged blades, without existence of preliminary cracks or corrosion pits. The blades during experiment were entered into transverse vibration. The crack propagation process was conducted in resonance condition. During the fatigue test, the growth of crack was monitored. In the second part of work, a nonlinear finite element method was utilized to determine the stress state of the blade during vibration. In this analysis a first mode of transverse vibration were considered. High maximum principal stress zone was found at the region of blade where the crack occurred. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.