Abstract

A support system for coupling elements of different temperatures while reducing thermal and dynamic stress. The support system couples a fuel manifold to a combustor in a gas turbine engine and includes first and second elongated brackets connected, respectively, to the combustor and to the fuel manifold. Distal ends of each of the brackets are positioned in overlapping relationship. A slot is formed in one of the overlapping distal ends and an aperture formed in the other aligned generally with the slot. A fastener extends through the aperture and slot compressing the ends against each other with a preselected force such that the ends cannot separate but can exhibit a sliding motion in the slot direction. The compressive force is controlled by a spring member positioned between one end of the fastener and an adjacent surface of one of the first and second brackets. A second disk fits around the stud similar to a large flat washer and the spring member fits around the stud between the two disks. A nut on the opposite end of the stud and the opposite side of the bracket ends is tightened to compress the spring member and establish the preselected compressive force on the bracket ends. The abutting surface of the bracket ends may be treated to reduce wear.