Aluminum fan blade failures
Aluminum fan blade failures
(OP)
Just looking for general comments on a problem we are having with aluminum cast fan blades. Without getting into a lot of fan details, we've had 4 recent failures ( catastrophic) of the blades. Visual inspection of the blades looks like there are large cavities or pockets in the casting ( predominently where the blade meets the stub end where it is held on to the hub). Should the casting, irregardless of the type (grade) of aluminum be 'bubble free? or are bubbles inherent in casting aluminum? Would different grades be more prone to 'cavities' or bubbles? (The seller is only a supplier, who gets the blades from a foundry )
Thanks
Thanks





RE: Aluminum fan blade failures
Regards,
Cory
Please see FAQ731-376 for tips on how to make the best use of Eng-Tips Fora.
RE: Aluminum fan blade failures
As Cory stated, porosity is to be expected. It can be rated by radiographic analysis and metallurgical cross section.
RE: Aluminum fan blade failures
RE: Aluminum fan blade failures
You should also involve the fan manufacturer in determining the root cause of failure. Is it materials related, design related or operating related? Are you operating in a harmonic regime - in a corrosive atmosphere? Did the manufacturer receive substandard material?
RE: Aluminum fan blade failures
RE: Aluminum fan blade failures
RE: Aluminum fan blade failures
RE: Aluminum fan blade failures
You can tell your supplier about strength,enlogation,hardness.I think a experience foundry engineer can help you.And can tell you proper casting method.
RE: Aluminum fan blade failures
RE: Aluminum fan blade failures