A novel approach to materials selection strategy case study: Wave energy extraction impulse turbine blade

This paper considers a new way for optimal material selection strategy using a combination of three well known methods; the Cambridge Material Selector based method, the adapted value engineering techniques and the technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution. Using this approach allows the user to combine the strength of each separate method, allowing the material selection process to be streamlined. The novel method is applied in a case study that considers the optimal selection of wave energy extraction turbine blade material. The results are consistent for such an application, where the optimum material for manufacturing an impulse turbine blade would be GFRP, with titanium alloys in second place. This rational method is used directly for choosing a turbine blade component material and can also be extended to cover other rotating machinery (fans, pumps) or any industrial interest where the common goal is to make an informed decision. (C) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.