Finite Element Analysis (FEA) Implementation of Thermal Barrier Coating (TBC) Lifetime Prediction Methods

Thermal Barrier Coatings (TBC) is one of the most important insulation components of an advanced turbine. It is expected to operate at temperature conditions as high as 1760oC. The main objective of this work is to investigate four available methods in predicting the lifespan of the TBC layer and its practicality in finite element analysis (FEA) computation. The four methods discussed are TGO Thickness Calculation, Elasticity and Creep Effect Analysis, A Coupled Oxidation Constitutive Approach and Fracture Mechanics Method. The predicted results obtained are compared with experimental data provided by Limarga [10]. The implementations of TGO Thickness Calculation as well as Elasticity and Creep Effect Analysis in finite element computation have shown a promising result such as local von Mises stress distribution on each layer in TBC (top coat, TGO and bond coat). This simulation result can provide a good comparison data for future experimental work