Why an engine air particle separator (EAPS)?

Abstract

The purpose of this technical paper is to describe how an Engine Air Particle Separator (EAPS) removes contaminant particles before they enter the gas turbine engine. Gas turbine engines perform poorly in air containing sand, volcanic ash, industrial pollutants, etc. Typical dirt related gas turbine malfunctions include: Erosion of the engine and air cycle machinery rotating components. Clogging and fouling of turbine section. Wear of oil wetted components caused by contaminated lubricants. Contaminated air entering an EAPS is sent through a swirling motion induced by the vortex generator. This swirling motion causes the heavier dirt particles and water droplets to be thrown radially outward by centrifugal force so that they may be scavenged from the engine air intake. This report will provide test results of helicopters with and without EAPS and describes the steps necessary to design an EAPS for various air vehicles and engines.