Materials and design concepts for high performance compressor components

High-performance compressors with increased pressure ratios require sophisticated materials solutions and design concepts. Reduced weight and increased strength and stiffness are the major requirements for highly stressed fan blades in future aircraft engines. Two different materials and design approaches will be discussed in the paper, namely local reinforcement of the titanium fan blades by using titanium matrix composites (TMCs) and by partly replacing the bulk titanium fan blade by fiber reinforced plastics (hybrid concept). While the TMCs significantly improve the mechanical properties of the fan blades, the hybrid blades can contribute to considerable weight savings. Blings (=bladed rings) offer high potential in weight savings of the entire compressor and require TMCs in particular for elevated temperature applications that are relevant in the higher stages of the compressor.