General Electric Company
INSERTION APPARATUS FOR USE WITH ROTARY MACHINES

Abstract:

An insertion apparatus for use with a rotary machine includes a body extending from an insertion end to a steering end and sized to fit within an annular cavity. The body has a first stiffness and curves along a circumference of the annular cavity as the insertion end travels through the annular cavity. The insertion apparatus also includes a stiffener coupled to the body and extending from the steering end to the insertion end. The stiffener has a second stiffness greater than the first stiffness. The insertion apparatus further includes at least one maintenance device coupled to the insertion end of the insertion apparatus and a displacement mechanism configured to adjust a position of the at least one maintenance device relative to the body.