What is the primary cause of turbine blade failure?

The primary cause of turbine blade failure often centers around resonant blade vibration. Turbine blades operate in environments where they are subjected to various types of stresses, and vibrations can be amplified when the natural frequency of the blades matches the frequency of the excitation forces. This phenomenon, known as resonance, can lead to catastrophic failures over time as the blades can experience fatigue and crack due to consistent oscillation.

While excessive heat, corrosion, and foreign object damage are indeed critical factors that can compromise turbine blade integrity, the specific mechanics of vibration resonance is particularly insidious because it can lead to failure without any noticeable external signs until it's too late.

Ensuring that turbine blades are designed to avoid resonance and maintaining them properly is crucial in prolonging their lifespan and maintaining operational safety.