Fatigue Failure of LP Compressor Blade in an Aero Gas Turbine Engine

Failure of low-pressure compressor rotor blade in an aero gas turbine engine is analyzed to determine its root cause. Forensic and metallurgical investigations are carried out on the blade failed. The failure of the first stage rotor blade is found to be the first in the chain of events that led to the engine failure. The mode of failure in the blade is found to be fatigue and has originated from the mounting lug fillet region due to high stress concentrations. The failure has caused extensive damages in low-pressure compressor module and also in downstream modules as a secondary effect. Remedial measures are also suggested to prevent such failures.