Spray Washer for Jet Engine Rotors – Case Study 1007

Background

This complex rotor part stands about 7 ft. tall, has a 40” diameter at its widest point, and weighs 1,000 lbs. The part has several rows of “HPT BLADES” and is covered with tiny holes.

Parts Cleaning Problem

First, this tall, 1,000 lb. part had to be fixtured so that the blades and other surfaces were not damaged. Second, while the outside of the part needed to be spray washed, water could not be allowed to go through the tiny surface holes and get inside the part.

The System / Solution

F-4000-LX-P Spray Washer

The solution was an F-4000LX-P spray washer with a custom fixture.  To prevent water from entering the part, the rotor is pressurized. A compressed air line is connected to the upper shaft cap. Compressed air is forced into the part and has no place to go but out the small surface holes. Air shooting out stops any water from getting inside.