Gas Turbine PDF
Gas Turbine PDF
Gas Turbine PDF
Gas Turbine
Gas Turbine
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Lesson 23 : Enclosures
Lesson 33 : Compressor
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Introduction
Gas turbines are designed for many
different purposes. In the petroleum
industry they are commonly used to
drive:
compressors for transporting gas through
pipelines
generators that produce electrical power
In this lesson, you will learn about the basic
design of gas turbine engines, their sections,
and how they operate.
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The sections of a gas turbine are contained in the engine case. The engine
case is a horizontal tube-like container that is open at both ends.
Each section of the gas turbine has a specific function.
Engine Design: Air Inlet & Compressors
Huge quantities of air enter the case through an opening at the front end
called the engine air inlet.
After passing through the engine air inlet, the air flows to the compressor
section. The compressor section contains the first moving part, the
compressor.
Compressor wheels increase the pressure of the incoming air.
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Engine Design:
Combustion
The compressed air flows to the
combustion section of the gas turbine
engine.
As the compressed air enters the
combustion chambers, fuel is added
through nozzles. The result is a mixture of
fuel and air.
The fuel and air mixture is ignited and
burns, creating hot gases. The hot,
expanding gases flow into the turbine
section of the engine.
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Combustion
In the narrow section of the case, the air is
compressed.
Fuel gas is injected into the compressed air
through fuel nozzles. The fuel and air are
mixed together and ignited.
Burning the fuel and air mixture creates
hot combustion gases. The heat increases
the temperature and available energy of
the gases.
A turbine captures this energy and changes
it into mechanical energy.
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Turbine Rotation
The turbine in the rear of the engine case
extracts mechanical energy from the flow of
the gases acting on the blades.
The turbine rotates because of the pressure
and velocity of the hot expanding gases
acting on the blades of the turbine.
As the hot gases pass through the turbine,
the energy in the gas is reduced.
The gases exit the rear of the case and into
the atmosphere.
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Combustion
In the narrow section of the case, the air
is compressed.
Fuel gas is injected into the compressed
air through fuel nozzles. The fuel and air
are mixed together and ignited.
Burning the fuel and air mixture creates
hot combustion gases. The heat increases
the temperature and available energy of
the gases.
A turbine captures this energy and
changes it into mechanical energy.
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Turbine Rotation
The turbine in the rear of the engine case
extracts mechanical energy from the flow of
the gases acting on the blades.
The turbine rotates because of the pressure
and velocity of the hot expanding gases
acting on the blades of the turbine.
As the hot gases pass through the turbine,
the energy in the gas is reduced.
The gases exit the rear of the case and into
the atmosphere.
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Gas Turbine
Turbine Rotor
The turbine uses energy from the
thrust force created by the
expanding gases.
This energy is changed into shaft
horsepower to drive the turbine
compressor, the engine
accessories, and the load. Most of
this energy is expended to drive
the turbine compressor.
(Contd.)
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Gas Turbine
rotor disc
rotor blades
The rotor blades (sometimes called buckets) are attached to the rotor disc.
The rotor disc is mounted on the rotor shaft. The entire assembly of blades
and disc is often called a rotor.
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Gas Turbine
Basic Operation
The figure shows how all the components
of the gas turbine engine work together.
The fan has been replaced by a single set
of compressor blades.
The compressor creates the compressed
air that is needed for combustion.
Fuel gas is mixed with the compressed air
and is ignited. The burning mixture
creates a force in the rear of the engine
case. The force is changed into rotating
mechanical energy that turns the turbine.
(Contd. )
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The turbine turns the rotor shaft that is shared by the compressor and the
turbine.
The compressor and turbine are connected to the same rotor shaft. The
rotating force of the turbine is used to drive the compressor.
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Gas Turbine
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Laws of
Thermodynamics
The laws of thermodynamics explain the effects
of heat in an engine.
The first law states that energy can be changed
but it cannot be destroyed.
In a gas turbine engine, heat energy is changed
to mechanical energy.
The second law of thermodynamics states that
heat cannot be transferred from a cooler body to
a hotter body.
In a gas turbine engine, heat is transferred from
the hotter engine to the cooler lube oil.
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Boyle's Law
Compressibility is an important factor in gas
turbine performance. Gas turbines use
compressed air for combustion.
Boyle's Law can be explained by placing a
quantity of gas in a cylinder that has a tightly
fitted piston.
When a force is applied to the piston, the gas
is compressed to a smaller volume.
When the force is doubled, the gas is
compressed to half its original volume.
The force exerted on the turbine blades
increases as the pressure of the combustion
air increases.
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Charles' Law
Charles' Law explains the expansion of gases
when heat is added by burning fuel in an engine.
Charles' Law is explained using the figure. The
first container holds a certain volume of air. If the
air in the container is heated, it expands and its
pressure increases.
The expanding air pushes against the container.
The higher the temperature, the greater the force
applied by the expanding volume of air.
In the gas turbine, the forces created by the hot,
expanding gases push against the blades of the
turbine and turn the rotor.
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Gas Turbine
contaminants
Temperature and water content affect the
density of the air. Because cold air is more
dense than hot air, it has more mass. The
more air in the gas turbine, the more force
created.
(Contd.)
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On a very cold day, a gas turbine can exceed its peak load. On a very hot
day, a gas turbine will produce much less power.
The atmosphere also contains foreign matter that is harmful to gas turbines,
such as pollen and dust. The contaminants reduce the efficiency of the
turbine and damage internal parts.
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Brayton Cycle
. Expansion
. Combustion
. Compression
The Brayton Cycle defines what takes place in
the gas turbine engine. These events are
controlled by the physical laws described on
the previous pages.
The events in the Brayton Cycle take
place in specific sections of the gas
turbine. These events are:
Compression
Combustion
Expansion
Exhaust
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Gas Turbine
Filter Assembly
The first component of the air inlet
system is the filter assembly.
The filter assembly consists of the
following parts:
weather louvers
inlet screens
filters
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The filter assembly separates moisture and particles such as dirt, dust, and
insects from the inlet air. This prevents contamination and foreign object
damage to the compressor. Weather Louvers, Screens, & Filters
The purpose of the weather louvers is to prevent direct rainfall from entering
the air inlet system.
Inlet screens, usually constructed of wire mesh, are designed to prevent large
items and other contaminants from entering the compressor inlet.
The inlet screens are located behind the weather louvers.
Filters trap small particles of dust, dirt, and other contaminants to prevent
them from entering the compressor section.
Filters are constructed of materials which meet the specific operating and
climatic conditions of the gas turbine location.
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Bypass Doors
Some air inlet systems have bypass
doors located just downstream of the air
filters.
The purpose of the bypass doors is to
protect the air inlet from excessive
differential pressure.
High differential pressure is usually
caused by excessively dirty air inlet
filters or some other abnormal blockage
of the air inlet system restricting airflow
through the filter.
( Contd. )
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Anytime the bypass doors are open during gas turbine operation, the
engine is unprotected and is operating with unfiltered air.
Operating under these conditions reduces engine reliability and operating
life.
Operators should take immediate action to determine why the bypass
doors are open and take corrective action.
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Trash Screens
The inlet silencer is a baffle arrangement
intended to quiet the noise vibration of the
compressor blading.
The trash screens are the next component
in the inlet ducting assembly. Trash
screens prevent foreign objects from
entering the compressor inlet.
Trash screens are installed downstream in
the ducting before the compressor inlet.
( Contd. )
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Access doors are provided to allow cleaning and servicing of the trash screens.
Trash screens are constructed of stainless steel and should not require
maintenance other than periodic cleaning and inspection.
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Gas Turbine
Air Plenum
The final component in the duct
assembly is the air plenum.
Air
Plenum
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Silencers
Silencers are usually installed in both the
air inlet system and the exhaust section
of the gas turbine to reduce operating
noise.
Silencing is accomplished by baffles
covered with sound-absorbing material.
In some air inlet ducts, the interior walls
of the ducting and air plenum chambers
are also lined with this sound-absorbing
material.
( Contd. )
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Gas turbine operating noise is harmful to the human ear. Silencers help but
do not totally eliminate gas turbine noise. If you work near a gas turbine that
is operating, you should wear ear protection to avoid hearing loss.
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Introduction
The preceding lesson discussed the general
construction of an axial flow gas turbine
engine. It also described the engine case
and the components of the air inlet.
In this lesson you will learn about the
compressor section of an axial flow gas
turbine.
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Gas Turbine
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Compressor Components:
Rotor Blades
Rotor blades are usually made of stainless
steel. They are usually fitted into the rotor
disks by either bulb-type, fir-tree type, or
dove-tail type roots.
The blades are then locked by means of
screws, spacers, pins, keys, lock wires, or
peening.
The clearance between rotating blades and
the outer case is critical.
Rotor blades are thinner at the tips than at the base. This design helps prevent
damage to the blade, stator vanes, or compressor housing if the blade
contacts the compressor housing.
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Compressor Components:
Rotor Blades
Compressor rotor blades are shorter at the
discharge than at the inlet.
This narrower working space is caused by the
decrease in casing diameter, by the increase in
rotor wheel diameter, or both.
Some compressor blades have knife-edge tips. At
ambient temperature, the compressor rotor fits
easily into the compressor case. However, as the
blades expand from compression heat, they
lengthen and reduce clearance between the case
and rotors.
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Compressor Components:
Rotor Blades
Tighter clearances increase the efficiency
of the axial flow compressor.
The compressor section component
discussed next is the stator.
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Compressor Components:
Stator
Stator vanes are the non-moving elements
of the compressor. They are located
between each rotor stage. Stator blades are
attached to the inner wall of the case.
Stator vanes receive high velocity air from
each preceding rotor stage of the
compressor.
Stator vanes direct airflow to the next stage
of compression at the desired angle. This
controlled direction provides increased
blade efficiency.
( Contd. )
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Gas Turbine
Compressor Components:
Stator Vanes
Stator vanes are usually made of corrosionresistant and erosion- resistant steel.
They may be mounted to the engine
case in several ways. For example:
They are frequently shrouded or enclosed
by a suitable band for fastening purposes.
(Contd. )
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The vanes may be welded into the shrouds. The shroud is secured to the
inner wall of the compressor case.
In some cases, individual blades are inserted into slots cut in the case.
Each component plays an important role in compressor operation, which is
our next topic.
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Compressor Surge
Compressor surge is a characteristic common to all types of gas turbines.
In general, surge is the result of unstable airflow in the compressor.
This unstable condition is often caused by air building up in the rear stages of
the compressor.
When a compressor is not operating at its optimum speed, the forward
compressor blades may provide more air than the downstream stages can
compress. The air then tends to reverse flow. The compressor surges.
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Compressor Surge
Surging causes the machine to vibrate excessively.
Several methods are used to control surging. For example, the two-shaft gas
turbine design reduces the possibility of surging.
Compressors with higher compression ratios have a greater tendency to
surge. Compression ratios are discussed next.
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Compression Ratio
Large, high-powered gas turbines require
greater efficiency and higher compression
than can be obtained with a single axial flow
compressor.
Single axial compressors usually have a
compression ratio of approximately 8:1.
Compression ratio is determined by the
discharge pressure (psia) divided by the
suction pressure (psia).
For example, a gas turbine with a compression ratio of 8:1 discharges 117.6
psia of discharge pressure for every 14.7 psia of suction pressure.
In two-shaft gas turbines, one or more turbine stages drive the compressor.
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Two-Shaft Compressor
Two-shaft compressors can operate with
lower compression ratios. The lower
compression ratio helps reduce the
possibility of surging.
For example, if a gas turbine had a
compression requirement of 20:1, a twoshaft (dual compressor) would share the
load.
Each compressor, operating in series, may have only a 4:1 or 5:1 compression
ratio. The net compression ratio of the dual compressors is higher than that of
a single compressor.
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Introduction
The previous lesson presented
information about the compressor section
of an axial flow gas turbine. This lesson
contains information about the diffuser
and the combustion section.
We will begin by discussing the purpose
of the diffuser.
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Diffuser: Purpose
The diffuser is located between the
compressor section and the main
components of the combustion section.
The purpose of the diffuser is to
prepare the air for entry into the
combustion section.
The front end of the diffuser is bolted
to the compressor case, and the back
end is attached to the combustion
section.
( Contd.)
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The diffuser has an expanding internal diameter that looks like an upside
down funnel. This provides additional space, like the air plenum, for the
compressed air to expand. In an operating gas turbine, the point of highest
pressure is in the diffuser exit.
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Diffuser: Airflow
The diffuser straightens the flow of
air into the combustion section and
provides equal distribution to each
chamber.
When the air leaves the diffuser, it
enters the next main section of the
gas turbine, the combustion section.
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Gas Turbine
Components: Combustion
Chamber
The main component of the combustion
section is the combustion chamber
(burner).
A basic combustion chamber consists of
the following:
outer case
perforated inner liner
fuel injectors
source of ignition
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The outer case forms the shell or chamber in which the combustion process
takes place.
The perforated inner liner, also called a combustion liner, is designed to
provide paths for compressed air and gases to flow through the chamber for
efficient combustion and expansion.
The fuel injectors are located at the inlet of the combustion chamber.
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Components:
Coaxial Arrangement
Combustion chambers are arranged
coaxially (common axis) with the
compressor and turbine to allow efficient
flow-through operation.
The figure shows a typical combustion
chamber arrangement.
Note the location of the spark plugs. Not all
combustion chambers have spark plugs.
Some are equipped with only crossfire
tubes.
( Contd.)
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To supply the needed source of ignition, the flame from the combustion
chamber is carried through a crossfire tube to the next chamber. It is then
used as the source of ignition for the next chamber. This process continues
until all chambers are ignited.
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Gas Turbine
Operation: Airflow
To operate efficiently, a combustion
chamber must provide:
a means for proper mixing of air and
fuel
a way to cool the hot combustion
products to a temperature the turbine
section components can tolerate.
Contd.
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Operation: Airflow
To accomplish these actions, airflow
through the combustor is divided into two
air paths:
primary
secondary
The primary air is approximately 25% of the
total air that enters the chamber. Primary
air is sent to the fuel nozzle area for
combustion.
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Gas Turbine
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Gas Turbine
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These passages:
change the direction of gas flow
increase gas velocity
reduce pressure and temperature of the gas
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Gas Turbine
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Components: Nozzle
Vane Assembly
Each set of stator vanes forms a nozzle
vane assembly for the following turbine
wheel.
Exit guide vanes straighten the gas
flow as it enters the exhaust section.
We have looked at the purpose,
function, and design features of the
two main components of the turbine
section, the stator and the rotor.
Our next focus is on the operation or
flow of gases through the turbine
section.
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Turbine Section:
Operation
( Contd.)
Hot, expanding gases from each
burner (or combustion chamber) flow
through a transition duct to turbine
nozzle vanes.
The nozzle vanes direct the expanding
gases into the turbine section.
As you recall, the components of the
compressor section convert energy by
increasing the airflow pressure.
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Turbine Section:
Operation
In contrast, the components of the
turbine section convert energy by
reducing the pressure of the flowing
gases.
Pressure is changed to velocity by the
shape and position of both the turbine
stator vanes and the rotor blades.
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The remaining energy available for work is used to drive the load.
The purpose and operation of the exhaust section are described next.
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Exhaust Section:
Purpose
When the gases exit the turbine
section they enter the last section of
the gas turbine, the exhaust section.
The exhaust section is located
directly behind the turbine section of
the engine.
The purpose of the exhaust section
is to discharge the spent gases to
the atmosphere.
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Gas Turbine
Exhaust Section:
Components (Contd.)
The exhaust section usually consists
of the following components:
outer housing
struts
inner housing
plenum
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Exhaust Section:
Components
The inner housing may contain the gas
turbine rear bearing assembly and
overspeed trip device.
The outer housing flange is used to
connect the exhaust collector or plenum
to the gas turbine exhaust section.
The diffusion process occurs in the
exhaust section as the volume is
increased.
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Introduction
Subsystems and accessories are
separate from the main gas turbine
engine assembly.
This lesson presents information on
three gas turbine engine subsystems
and accessories:
ignition system
accessory drives (gearbox)
vibration monitoring system
Subsystems and accessories are essential for gas turbine engine operation.
The first subsystem discussed is the ignition system.
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Components: Igniter
Plug & Transformer
An igniter plug is usually installed in
two of the combustion chambers.
When ignition occurs, a highintensity spark jumps across the air
gap of the ignitor plug. This spark
initiates combustion in the
combustion chamber.
The G.E. ignition system has two
transformer units and two leads to
the igniter plugs.
( Contd.)
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Components: Igniter
Plug & Transformer
The two transformer units may be
separate or housed in one unit.
After a normal start-up, ignition is no
longer needed and the ignition
system is deactivated.
After lightoff, the flame in the
combustor is the ignition source for
continuous combustion.
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Gas Turbine
Components: Igniter
Plugs
Gas turbine igniter plugs differ from
the spark plugs of reciprocating
engines.
The air gap at the igniter plug tip is
much wider, and the electrode is
designed for a much higher intensity
spark.
(Contd.)
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Ignition System
Maintenance
Procedures
(Contd.)
In ignition systems, the term high
intensity means that the electrical
charge can be lethal.
Because the electrical charge can be
lethal, ignition systems require special
maintenance and handling according
to the manufacturer's instructions.
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Ignition System
Maintenance
Procedures (Contd.)
Use caution when handling
damaged transformer units that
are hermetically sealed. Some
transformers contain radioactive
material.
Before performing a firing test
of igniters, ensure that the
combustor is free of fuel. A fire
or explosion could result.
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Gas Turbine
Accessory Drives:
Purpose
The next topic discussed is accessory
drives. We will look at the typical
accessory drives for both G.E. and
Solar.
Gas turbine accessory drive systems
provide gear reduction and mounting
pads for accessories needed for
engine operation.
( Contd.)
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Vibration Monitoring
System: Purpose (Contd.)
The last topic discussed in this lesson is the
vibration monitoring system. The purpose
of the vibration monitoring system is to
help in preventing abnormal operating
conditions.
The rotating shafts of any machine or
gearbox have a tendency to move axially or
radially as a result of speed, loads, worn
internal parts, unbalance, or other reasons.
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Vibration Monitoring
Several protective systems are used to alert
operators to abnormal operating conditions
that could result in damage to the turbine or
other equipment.
Vibration is one of the critical operating
parameters that is monitored by a protection
system.
A vibration monitoring system is usually a part of the gas turbine's programmable
logic control and operator terminal.
The figure shows typical vibration detector locations in relation to the rotor.
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Gas Turbine
Shaft Movement
Vibration monitoring systems are
installed on gas turbines and driven
equipment to monitor and sometimes
record axial and radial shaft
movement.
Shaft movement is monitored in either
displacement (mils), velocity
(length/unit-time), or acceleration
(g's).
(Contd.)
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Vibration Monitoring
Probes
(Contd.)
In the gas turbine, vibration probes are
installed in the bearing housings near
the shaft.
The probe tips operate on 24-volt DC
power to establish a magnetic field
between the probe tip and a burnished
area on the shaft.
As the distance between the probe tip
and the shaft changes, the strength of
the magnetic field changes.
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Vibration Monitoring
Probes: Function
In the figure, four probes monitor the
radial movement of a gas turbine
shaft and two probes monitor the
shaft axial location.
Axial position probes 1 and 2 monitor
shaft axial movement in two places at
the thrust collar.
Probes 3Y and 4X measure radial
movement at the low pressure end of
the compressor.
(Contd.)
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Introduction
This lesson presents information
about bearings and oil seals
commonly used in gas turbine
engines.
The main bearings of a gas turbine
engine are mounted in a bearing
housing.
Most bearing housings contain seals
to prevent oil leakage into the gas
path.
In this lesson, bearings are discussed first, followed by oil seals.
The lesson begins with the purpose of bearings.
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Gas Turbine
Bearings: Purpose
Bearings have several purposes. They:
support engine parts
minimize friction
minimize wear
allow freedom of movement
carry loads
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Types: Plain
There are several types of bearings
used in gas turbines:
plain or sleeve
ball and roller
Plain bearings are the simplest type of
bearing.
Plain bearings are used in minor load
locations, such as engine accessories.
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Types: Hydrodynamic
Bearings
Hydrodynamic bearings use an oil
wedge for support and to reduce
friction.
There are two types of
hydrodynamic bearings:
radial oil-wedge
thrust oil-wedge
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Hydrodynamic Bearings:
Radial Oil-Wedge
A radial oil-wedge bearing resembles
a plain bearing except the bearing or
bushing is divided into several
sections, or pads. Each pad is able to
tilt or lean.
When the shaft rotates in the
bearing, the pads tilt to allow
wedges of oil to form between the
pad and the shaft.
( Contd.)
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Gas Turbine
Lube oil:
reduces friction
cushions
cools
cleans
seals
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Function: Reducing
Friction
When the oil film is unbroken,
friction in the engine is fluid
friction instead of metal-to metal
friction.
For example, oil pressure will
actually lift the journal of a shaft
off the bearing on which it is
resting.
As the shaft rotates, a layer of oil
prevents the journal from
physically touching the bearing.
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As the oil flows through the engine, it collects foreign matter and carries it
away with the oil returning to the lube oil reservoir. Foreign matter is
removed in the lube oil filter.
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Function: Seal
Formation
Lube oil is also used to form seals.
Mechanical seals are installed in an
engine between the moving and
nonmoving parts.
A very small space exists between
the two parts of a seal. This space is
sometimes filled with lube oil.
A thin film of oil between sealing surfaces makes a mechanical seal
more leak resistant.
To perform these functions lube oil must meet certain requirements.
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Requirements: Synthetic
Oil & Testing
The viscosity requirements of oil for gas turbine
engines are often met by high quality synthetic
lubricants.
When synthetic lubricants are used in gas turbine
engines, they must meet manufacturer's specifications.
After a period of time, lube oil (synthetic or petroleum
based) will begin to break down.
To maintain the quality of lube oil, it must be tested
periodically for contaminants.
Contaminants are a good indication of engine wear. Oil
samples are taken from a sediment-free area in the
lube oil reservoir. The oil sample is submitted for
testing.
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Gas Turbine
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.If a hand pump is used to service lube oil, use that pump for one specific lube
oil only.
Do not mix incompatible lubricants. This can result in improper lubrication of
the engine.
Record the amount of oil serviced.
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After lubricating the bearings and gears, the lube oil is returned to the
lube oil reservoir.
Lube oil system operation will vary from manufacturer to manufacturer,
but the components are basically the same.
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Reservoir: Purpose
The purpose of the lube oil
reservoir is to contain an ample
supply of lubricant for the gas
turbine, accessory drive
systems, gearbox, and driven
equipment.
The lube oil reservoir also
provides the oil for starting,
control, positioning inlet guide
vanes, and trip oil circuits.
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Reservoir: Component
Functions
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Reservoir: Component
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Gas Turbine
Auxiliary Pump:
Purpose & Function
The purpose of an auxiliary lube oil
pump is to supply lube oil:
during gas turbine startup
during gas turbine shutdown or cool
down
anytime the main lube oil pump
cannot supply lubricating oil
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Auxiliary Pump:
Purpose & Function
During gas turbine engine shutdown,
the auxiliary lube oil pump is again
started by the control system when
engine speed slows to approximately
80% speed.
The auxiliary oil pump continues to
operate throughout the shutdown and
cool-down cycles.
The figure shows a typical vertical,
centrifugal pump.
Contd.
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Emergency Pump:
Purpose & Function
The purpose of an emergency lube
oil pump is to supply lube oil during
an emergency shutdown if the
auxiliary lube oil pump is inoperative
or is unable to maintain sufficient
lube oil pressure.
The emergency lube oil pump is
similar to the auxiliary oil pump. The
main difference is that the auxiliary
lube oil pump is operated by an AC
motor and the emergency lube oil
pump is operated by a DC motor.
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Gas Turbine
Lube Oil Filters: Purpose
The purpose of lube oil filters is
to remove particles that collect
in the oil.
These particles can lodge in the
close spaces between bearings
and seals.
Contaminants in lube oil will
increase the friction between
moving parts, resulting in
excessive wear and bearing
failure.
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filter case
plumbing
differential pressure gauge
differential pressure alarm switch
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Introduction
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Introduction
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Pressure Control
Devices: Purpose
The purpose of pressure control devices
is to regulate lube oil pressure. Excessive
pressure in the lube oil system is
prevented by relief valves.
The following lube oil system pressure
control devices are discussed:
pump relief valve
pressure relief valve
diaphragm operated control valve
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Relief Valves
Lube oil pumps are protected by a relief
valve. If the oil pressure at the pump
discharge outlet is high, the valve is lifted off
its seat and some of the excess oil is returned
to the pump inlet. Some systems return the
oil to the reservoir.
A lube oil system pressure relief valve relieves
excessive oil pressure.
Like the pump relief valve, this valve opens
when oil pressure overcomes spring pressure,
and excess oil is returned to the reservoir.
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Diaphragm Valve
A diaphragm valve regulates lube oil
pressure within a very narrow range. A
diaphragm valve senses lube oil pressure in
the bearing header and opens or closes to
maintain the pressure in the correct
operating range.
As mentioned at the beginning of this lesson,
oil pressure and oil temperature are closely
related.
Information about temperature control
devices is presented next.
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Temperature Control
Devices: Purpose
The purpose of temperature control
devices is to regulate lube oil
temperature.
Such devices include:
oil cooler
thermostat
lube oil regulator assembly (thermal
bypass valve and pressure regulator)
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Lube Oil Regulator Assembly
A typical lube oil regulator
assembly contains:
two thermal bypass valves
a pressure regulating unloading
valve
The figure shows these components
and the flow of the oil through the
lube oil regulator assembly.
(Contd.)
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G. E.: Temperature
Indicator & Relief
Valve
The temperature indicator gauge is
identified by the letter "T" in a circle.
This gauge indicates the temperature
of the lube oil in the reservoir.
The relief valve VR1 regulates the
discharge pressure of the main
engine-driven lube oil pump, which is
discussed next.
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G. E.: Pressure
Indicator & Switch
Low lube oil pressure switch 63QA-1 is located
to the right of this indicator. During the
shutdown sequence or whenever the main oil
supply pressure decreases to approximately 75
psig, oil pressure switch 63QA-1 actuates. This
action starts the auxiliary lube oil pump.
The auxiliary lube oil pump, identified as 88QA
in the figure, is a motor-driven pump. A
pressure indicator and another pressure switch
are located between the pump and the check
valve.
The pressure switch, identifed as 63QP, signals
the control system when the auxiliary lube oil
pump is operating.
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G. E.: Differential
Pressure Indicator
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G. E.: Thermocouples
The device labeled LT-TH-1A,B represents
thermocouples located in the bearing header.
These thermocouples provide high
temperature alarms and trip signals to the
control system.
To trip the unit, the trip temperature must be
sensed by at least two thermocouples.
This concludes the information about oil
instruments and alarms in the G.E lube oil
system.
The Solar lube oil system will be discussed
next.
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Solar Instruments
& Alarms
The figure shows a
typical Solar lube oil
schematic.
Information about
Solar lube oil system
instruments and alarms
begins on the next
page with the level
indicator.
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Solar: Differential
Pressure Switch
The oil filter differential pressure switch will
initiate an alarm when a pressure drop across
the filter reaches the switch setpoint of
approximately 30 psig.
The ultimate relief valve protects the complete
lube oil system against overpressurization. The
valve opens at approximately 150 psig to return
excess oil to the lube oil tank.
Oil flows from the oil supply manifold to the lube
oil regulator assembly where oil pressure is
regulated.
Several oil pressure switches are installed on the
line to the pressure regulating unloading valve.
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The prelube oil pressure switch also shuts down the prelube oil pump.
During the start cycle, as main lube oil pump pressure exceeds the prelube oil
pump pressure, the prelube oil pressure switch actuates at the increasing oil
pressure setpoint. This shuts down the prelube oil pump.
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Solar: Temperature
Gauge & Switches
A temperature gauge and two temperature
switches are shown on the left side of the oil
supply manifold in the figure.
High lube oil temperature, and sometimes low
lube oil pressure, are indications of lube oil
cooler problems.
The high oil temperature alarm switch actuates
if engine inlet oil temperature reaches the
setpoint.
The switch will actuate the alarm, but the
engine will not shut down.
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Solar: Temperature
Gauge & Switches
A temperature gauge and two temperature
switches are shown on the left side of the
oil supply manifold in the figure.
High lube oil temperature, and sometimes
low lube oil pressure, are indications of
lube oil cooler problems.
The high oil temperature alarm switch
actuates if engine inlet oil temperature
reaches the setpoint.
The switch will actuate the alarm, but the
engine will not shut down.
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Introduction
The preceding lessons provided
information about the lubrication oil
system, its components, and operation.
This lesson presents information about
the hydraulic oil system.
The Solar gas turbine engine servo oil
system and a typical G.E. gas turbine
hydraulic system are used as examples.
The figure shows a schematic of a typical
hydraulic oil system used by Solar.
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The oil filter removes particles from the servo oil that are 25 microns or
larger.
The purpose of the relief valve is to protect the pump and other
components in the servo oil system against excessive oil pressure.
Information about a G.E. hydraulic oil system is presented next.
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Gas Turbine
G. E. Components
& Operation
Check valves, located between
the two manifolds, keep the
lines full when the turbine is
down.
Each manifold also has a
pressure relief valve. One relief
valve aids in controlling auxiliary
pump output pressure. The
other protects the main
hydraulic pump circuit from
damage if the main pump
pressure compensator fails.
Contd.
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Hydraulic oil at 1500 psig leaves the manifold through a manual filter transfer
valve to enter one of two filter manifolds. Each filter is equipped with a
differential pressure switch. An alarm is initiated if the differential pressure
increases to 60 psig.
Hydraulic oil leaving the filter system discharges to the inlet guide vanes and
the fuel control system.
Hydraulic accumulators are located upstream of these systems.
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G. E. Hydraulic Oil
System
At this point the accumulator
functions as a shock absorber. A
sudden surge or drop in pressure will
be compensated for by the
accumulator piston movement.
A fill device and a disc safety valve
are located on the top end cap.
Block valves and bleed valves are
provided for maintenance and
service.
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G. E. Variable Inlet
Guide Vane System
Hydraulic oil pressure at 1500 psig flows to the
variable inlet guide vane system (IGV), the fuel
gas system, and to one side of the hydraulic
dump valve.
The purpose of variable compressor inlet guide
vanes is to provide compressor pulsation
protection during start-up and shutdown. They
are also used during operation under partial load
conditions when waste heat recovery is installed.
The variable inlet guide vane actuator is a
hydraulically actuated assembly used to control
the angle of the guide vanes.
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G. E. Guide Vane
System Operation
For a normal shutdown, inlet guide
vanes move to the closed position.
In reference to inlet guide vanes, the
term fully closed means that the
vanes have moved to the minimum
open ("closed") position.
Inlet guide vanes do not close
completely like a door or a control
valve. There is some airflow through
the guide vanes during all phases of
Contd.
gas turbine operation.
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In case of a turbine trip, the bleed valves open and the inlet guide vanes
move to their "closed" position.
Inlet guide vanes are automatically positioned during start-up and
shutdown sequences to avoid gas turbine compressor surge.
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Gas Turbine
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The pressure reducing valve decreases the 100 psig lube oil supply
to 25 psig for the following systems:
bearing lubrication
accessory gear lubrication
hydraulic pump supply pressure
starting means control fluid and lubrication
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The loss of trip oil pressure allows spring B to extend, closing the valve
plug in the trip valve. Hydraulic oil pressure is released, the fuel flow is
shut off, and the turbine stops.
After a turbine trip, the trip valve must be manually reset and the cause
of the trip corrected before normal operation resumes.
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Introduction
This lesson is the first in a series on
fuel gas and liquid fuel systems.
This lesson provides introductory
information on gas turbine fuel
systems.
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Fuel Gas
Requirements
The figure lists typical fuel
gas requirements for gas
turbine engines. These
requirements are:
lower heating value
supply pressure
gas temperature
fuel quality
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Liquid Fuel
Requirements
The figure lists typical liquid fuel
requirements for gas turbine
engines. These requirements are:
fuel temperature
fuel viscosity
pour point
fuel quality
NOTE: Always check the turbine manufacturer's fuel specifications to ensure that the fuel
meets the specifications for the gas turbine you are operating.
The main components of a fuel gas system and liquid fuel system are given next. We will
begin with the fuel gas system.
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The interlock receives signals from the hand switch and the fire
detection system to change the positions of the fuel shutoff valve and
the vent valve.
When the fuel shutoff valve is closed, the vent valve must be open. The
interlock is usually a part of the control system logic that closes the vent
valve before the fuel shutoff valve opens.
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Filter Separators
The purpose of the filter separators in the fuel
gas supply system is to provide filtration and
separation of the fuel gas before it enters the
fuel control system.
The fuel gas should be relatively clean and dry
by the time it reaches this part of the system.
Operators should monitor the filter separator
sight glass (LG) during routine operating checks.
Any liquid accumulation must be drained off. If
liquid levels in the filter separator become
excessively high, the high level switch (LSH)
signals the DCS high liquid level alarm (LAH) and
an alarm is initiated.
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Filter Separators
Like the lube oil and some hydraulic oil filters,
the filter separators are equipped with
differential pressure indicators and alarms. The
system shown in the figure contains a high
differential pressure indicator switch (PDISH)
and a DCS differential pressure alarm (PDAH).
The differential pressure initiates the high
differential pressure alarm when the high
differential pressure setpoint is reached.
Operators should place the standby filter in
operation and service the operating filter before
the high differential pressure alarm is initiated.
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Gas Turbine
Control System
Fuel gas flows from the filter to
the gas turbine fuel system which
is controlled by the turbine control
system.
Several measuring devices are
located between the filter
separator and the gas turbine:
pressure transmitter (PT)
flow transmitter (FT) - optional
temperature measuring elements
(TE)
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These devices provide fuel gas supply information to the control system
instruments.
This information may be used for pressure indicators, pressure recorders,
pressure alarms, flow indicators, totalizers, recorders, temperature indicators,
and temperature recorders.
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Control System
The information is also analyzed and
computed by the control system to
schedule fuel flow to the engine as
needed for speed and load
requirements.
The control system is discussed in
more detail in the next lesson.
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Strainer
The purpose of the strainer is to remove
foreign particles from the fuel gas before it
enters the stop/speed ratio valve assembly.
A blowdown connection on the bottom of the
strainer body is used for periodic cleaning of
the strainer screen.
The next fuel gas control system component
discussed is the supply pressure switch.
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When control oil pressure is low, a spring moves an internal spool to the
"dump" position.
When hydraulic pressure is removed, a closing spring on the stop/speed ratio
valve plug closes the valve.
Fuel gas flow to the gas control valve and gas turbine is stopped.
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Pressure Transducer
The pressure control loop senses the fuel
gas pressure exiting the stop/speed ratio
valve. The pressure transducer changes the
gas pressure input signal to a DC voltage
output signal. The output signal is relayed
to the stop/speed ratio valve Speedtronic
control.
The Speedtronic control compares the
signals received from the intervalve
pressure, position control loop, and turbine
speed. The control system then adjusts the
stop/speed ratio valve to maintain fuel gas
pressure requirements.
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Gas Turbine
LVDTs (Position
Sensors)
Linear variable differential
transformers (LVDTs) are position
sensors attached to the valve stems.
A fuel gas control system contains
four LVDTs:
two sense the position of the
stop/speed ratio valve
two sense the position of the gas
control valve
( Contd.)
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LVDTs sense the position of the SRV and the GCV and transmit signals to
the appropriate Speedtronic control system segment.
Here the signals are changed into DC signals, which are compared to the
FSR.
This signal is then transmitted to the servo valves, which regulate the flow
of oil to the actuator cylinder, repositioning the SRV and the GCV.
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Servo Valves
The electrohydraulic servo valves are two-stage,
four-way flow control devices.
They provide directional and proportional
hydraulic flow control in response to a low
power DC input signal from the Speedtronic
control system.
The servo valves control the direction and rate
of movement of the pistons in the stop/speed
ratio valve and gas control valve actuating
cylinders.
The first-stage valve changes the small electric
signal into a hydraulic force that precisely
positions the piston of the second-stage valve.
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Servo Valves
The second-stage valve meters
hydraulic pressure to and from the
actuating cylinder. Movement of the
single-acting piston actuator is
opposed by a spring in the gas control
valve.
The last two components in the fuel
gas control system are the pressure
gauges and Speedtronic control
system. The pressure gauges are
discussed next.
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Pressure Gauges
Three gas pressure gauges are installed in
the fuel gas supply line.
The upstream gauge measures fuel gas
pressure entering the stop/speed ratio
valve.
The middle gauge measures fuel gas
pressure between the stop/speed ratio
valve and the gas control valve.
The downstream gauge measures the
pressure of the gas that has been metered
to the fuel gas manifold and fuel nozzles.
Next we will discuss the Speedtronic
control system as a component of the
overall fuel gas control system.
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Speedtronic Control
System
The positions of the stop/speed ratio valve and
gas control valve are controlled by an electrical
signal from the Speedtronic control system.
The signal causes the electro-hydraulic servo
valve to send oil to or release oil from the
hydraulic cylinder that actuates the stop/speed
ratio valve and gas control valve.
A signal from the position sensors (LVDTs) tells
the Speedtronic control system that the valve is
in the correct position or that a position change
is needed.
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Speedtronic Control
Components
The Speedtronic control system is a
microcomputer control system that
provides analog and digital signals
to control and protect gas turbine
operation.
The primary operating parameters
of a gas turbine are start-up,
temperature, and speed. All are
controlled by regulating fuel flow to
the engine.
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Gas Turbine
Control Loops
The Speedtronic control
system consists of three major
control loops:
start-up and shutdown
speed
temperature
The output of these control loops
is connected to a minimum value
select logic circuit.
Contd.
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The minimum value select logic circuit interfaces the speed, temperature,
and start-up control output signals to FSR for fuel control.
Only the control segment (e.g., start-up, speed, or temperature) calling for
the lowest voltage output is allowed to pass the gate to the fuel control
system as controlling FSR voltage. FSR control is the command signal for
fuel.
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Temperature Control
Loop
The next main component
discussed is the temperature
control loop.
The purpose of the temperature
control loop is to limit the turbine
firing temperature by regulating
fuel flow.
The actual firing temperature is
most difficult to measure and
Contd.
generally is not measured.
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Gas Turbine
Protective System
The increased firing temperature
improves turbine efficiency, but the
control system must prevent
overfiring the machine. This is
accomplished by the control system
lowering the temperature control
point.
Protection systems are also provided
to prevent abnormal conditions that
can damage the turbine.
Contd.
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These control and protective systems are independent systems that back up
the primary control systems.
The protective systems will trip the machine when overspeed or overtemperature trip conditions occur.
The over-temperature system protects the gas turbine against possible
damage caused by overfiring. It is a backup system that operates only after
failure of the temperature control loops.
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Gas Turbine
Supertonic Control:
Basic Function
The basic function of the
Speedtronic control system is
described next.
Under normal operating conditions,
the temperature control system
limits increases in fuel flow when
the firing temperature limit is
reached.
Contd.
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Speedtronic Control:
Basic Function
When the generator breaker is closed, on a
power grid, speed is held relatively constant,
or synchronous. Fuel flow in excess of that
necessary to maintain full speed/no load will
increase power generator output capabilities
instead of increasing turbine speed.
Isochronous controls hold turbine speed
steady during load changes.
When there is a difference between turbine
speed and setpoint, the electronic controls
increase or decrease the FSR until there are no
error signals.
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relief valve
pressure controls
pressure indicator
temperature indicator
level indicators
level controls and/or alarms
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Pressure, Temperature,
& Level Controls
In the figure, the storage tank is protected against
overpressurization by pressure controls. These
controls consist of a pressure transmitter (PT),
controller (PIC), actuator (PY), and control valve
(PV).
Operators can monitor the fuel oil storage tank
pressure at local pressure indicators (PI).
A local temperature indicator (TI) and a level
gauge (LG) are also provided.
Another level gauge, usually a sight glass, is
installed on the boot of the tank.
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When both pump switches are placed in the A position, the running pump
becomes the lead pump and the other pump is in auto standby.
If the lead pump fails when operating with both pumps in auto, the
standby pump will start automatically with no interruption in fuel supply.
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The boost pump is installed upstream from the low pressure duplex fuel
filters.
An electric boost pump is a rotary, positive-displacement, gear, motor-driven
pump. The pump takes fuel from the low pressure liquid fuel supply and
delivers it to the fuel system inlet at the required pressure.
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Fuel Filters
Fuel oil flows from the fuel oil pump to the gas
turbine via the pump discharge header. In the
figure, a filter removes solid particles from the
fuel oil.
In a liquid fuel system, filters are of two
types:
low pressure duplex filters
high pressure fuel filter
The duplex filter assembly incorporates two
parallel-mounted filters equipped with a
selector valve, filter check valves, and a
differential pressure switch.
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Fuel Filters
Each filter contains two replaceable
filter elements with a 10-micron
nominal rating, connected to the
fuel system through the control
valve so that fuel flow may be
directed through either filter. This
arrangement serves two purposes:
servicing of the inactive filter
during engine operation
manual transfer to the clean filter
without engine shutdown (Contd.)
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The high pressure fuel filter is installed in the fuel line between the high
pressure fuel pump and the fuel control valve. It contains a replaceable
filter element rated at 40 microns nominal.
The fuel manifold is discussed next.
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Fuel Manifold
The purpose of a fuel manifold is to divide a
single fuel supply into several outlet streams.
A liquid fuel manifold usually has an inlet and
outlet orifice called a boss. There is an inlet
boss and an outlet boss for each fuel nozzle.
Injector tube assemblies are connected to the
fuel outlet bosses and carry the fuel to the fuel
nozzle.
A liquid fuel manifold is sometimes called a fuel
flow divider manifold. It incorporates inlet and
outlet fuel connections for manifold-to-injector
tube assemblies that carry the liquid fuel to the
fuel nozzles.
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Fuel Manifold
Solar gas turbines may also have an air
assist manifold. Air assist manifold-toinjector tube assemblies carry fuelatomizing air to the fuel nozzles.
The fuel and air mixture ratio is the
weight of combustor primary air in
relation to the weight of the fuel. A
specific proportion of air is needed for
efficient operation.
Liquid fuel flows from the fuel manifold to
the fuel nozzles, which are discussed
next.
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Fuel Nozzles
Fuel nozzles are located in the inlet of
the combustor.
The purpose of fuel nozzles is to
deliver highly atomized fuel in a
controlled spray pattern in the
combustors.
Fuel nozzles are of three types:
simplex
duplex
air blast
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The higher volume and higher pressure fuel flow from the outer orifice
narrows the spray pattern so that fuel does not touch the combustion liner.
Single line nozzles also use a spin chamber for each orifice. This chamber
provides efficient fuel mixing and fuel-air residence time over different fuel
pressures.
The head of the fuel nozzle usually has air holes that provide some primary
air for combustion. This air also cools and cleans the nozzle head and spray
orifices.
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Gas Turbine
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Compression Ratio
Recall from a previous lesson that a gas
turbine engine must maintain its rated
compression ratio for efficient operation.
Compression ratio is the amount of discharge
pressure in pounds per square inch absolute
(psia) over suction pressure in psia.
As compressor discharge pressure increases,
fuel pressure to the engine also increases. As
the engine nears rated speed, fuel flow is
regulated according to load requirements.
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Solenoid Operation
Valves
The fuel valve assembly is mounted on the
fuel control assembly. The assembly is an
explosion-proof junction box, on which are
mounted four solenoid-operated valves.
These valves and their functions are
described next.
The two-way, normally closed bypass valve
connects fuel flow from the fuel control
valve to a return line leading to the fuel
filter inlet.
The valve remains closed during start-up
and operation. Upon engine shutdown, the
bypass valve opens.
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Flyweight Governor
A flyweight governor consists of a pair
of weights, called flyweights, a tension
spring, and a governor rod.
The governor rod rotates, and
centrifugal force moves the flyweights
apart.
Movement in the flyweight position
also repositions the governor rod. The
rod connects the action of the
flyweights to the throttle valve, which
controls fuel flow.
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Shaft rpm is compared with speed setpoints by the main fuel actuator
controller. The controller then increases or decreases fuel flow until the
desired speed is reached.
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Gas Turbine
Temperature Sensors
Exhaust gas temperature is the most
critical of all gas turbine engine operating
parameters. Exhaust gas temperature
sensors send signals to the main fuel
actuator controller. The exhaust gas
temperature is monitored by several
thermocouples, which signal temperature
information to the engine temperature
controller.
(Contd.)
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Introduction
The preceding lesson explained liquid
fuel system components and their
function.
This last lesson on gas turbine fuel
systems provides information about the
operation of a liquid fuel system as a
complete system.
A Solar gas turbine liquid fuel system is
used as an example.
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The rest of this lesson describes the operation of a typical liquid fuel system
during start-up, run, and shutdown sequences.
Operation of the liquid fuel system during the start-up sequence is described
first.
NOTE: The start-up operation is for a local, manual initiation after all pre-start
conditions have been satisfied.
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System Operation:
Start-up Sequence
1) The start-up sequence of the fuel system is
initiated when the start switch is pressed.
2) The load/speed sensing control unit (governor)
is energized.
3) A signal is transmitted to the electrohydraulic
servo actuator. The actuator retracts and moves
the fuel control linkage toward the maximum fuel
position when servo oil pressure builds up.
This action moves the metering valve lever from
the minimum fuel stop position. This also allows
the acceleration limiter to progressively enrich
the fuel and air mixture in accordance with the
acceleration schedule.
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System Operation:
Start-Up Sequence
Engine temperature control is offset during
start-up. The impending high temperature
alarm and high turbine temperature shutdown
setpoints are temporarily increased
approximately 50F.
During the start-up sequence when the
engine is operating between 0% and 15%
speed, the liquid fuel purge solenoid valve is
energized and remains open until 10 seconds
after 15% engine speed is reached.
The electric liquid fuel boost pumps are
energized, if used.
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System Operation:
Start-Up Sequence
The air assist solenoid-operated shutoff
valve is energized (opened). As the
engine accelerates, the fuel pressure,
Pcd, and engine oil pressure increases.
If 15% engine speed is not reached in
30 seconds after starters begin to crank,
engine shutdown is initiated and FAIL TO
CRANK malfunction is indicated.
The run sequence of fuel system
operation is discussed next.
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System Operation:
Shutdown Sequence
Shutdown of the fuel system operation
occurs in sequence when the stop switch
or emergency stop switch (Local Panel) is
pressed.
When start/run relays are deenergized:
1) The postlube timer relay begins to time
out.
(Contd.)
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System Operation:
Shutdown Sequence
55 minutes after the stop switch is
pressed:
1) The postlube timer relay times out.
2) The pre/postlube oil pump is deenergized.
3) The postlube cycle is complete.
4) The master control switch can be turned
off and the engine is ready for restart.
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Pneumatic Starting
System: Purpose
The purpose of a gas turbine engine
starting system is to provide power to:
rotate the turbine shaft to starting speed
assist the turbine to self-sustaining speed after
combustion occurs
Most gas turbine engines are started by starter
power input to the main accessory gearbox. The
gearbox is connected to the turbine rotor and
compressor.
Any gas under pressure may be used as a power
source for a pneumatic starting system.
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(Contd.)
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System Operation:
Temperature @ 350F
When engine turbine
temperature reaches 350F:
Ignition system is shut off.
Pre/postlube pumps stop when
engine-driven lube oil pump
pressure reaches 35 psig.
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electric motor
hydraulic pump
hydraulic fluid reservoir
hydraulic starter motor (engine
mounted)
filter elements
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Electric Motor
The purpose of the electric motor is to drive
the hydraulic pump.
The size of the electric motor depends on
the capacity of the hydraulic start module.
Larger engines require greater starting
power.
A typical 55 gpm hydraulic starting system
that operates at 5000 psig uses a 200
horsepower electric motor.
The motor normally operates on 480 volt, 3phase AC and rotates at 1800 rpm on 60 hz
or at 1500 rpm on 50 Hz.
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Hydraulic Pump
The hydraulic pump is an axial-piston,
variable-displacement or variable-volume
pump. This type of pump automatically
increases or decreases the volume of fluid
flow to limit output pressure.
A small charge pump is mounted on the
head of the hydraulic pump.
The purpose of the charge pump is to
prime the system and to ensure that air is
purged from the system.
The charge pump is driven through the
main hydraulic pump.
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Axial-Piston Pump
An axial-piston pump consists of several
small reciprocating pumps in a common
cylinder block and housing.
The head, which contains an inlet port and
an outlet port, is attached to one end of
the pump housing.
The cylinder block contains an odd
number of cylinders (usually seven)
equally spaced from the center.
Three cylinders are always connected to
the inlet port, and three cylinders are
always connected to the outlet port. One
cylinder is located between the ports.
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Axial-Piston Pump
The cylinder block and pistons rotate
inside the pump housing.
The pistons have connecting rods that
are fastened to a swash plate by ball
joints.
The drive shaft of the axial-piston pump
rotates the swash plate and cylinder
block so that the pistons move back and
forth in the cylinder block, creating the
pumping action.
Piston movement is almost overlapping,
which results in a constant flow of
hydraulic fluid.
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Hydraulic Pump:
Pumping Action
During the last half of the
revolution, the piston moves
outward toward the head.
The hydraulic fluid that filled
the cylinder during the first half
of the revolution is now forced
out through the outlet port as
the piston returns to point 1 to
start another cycle.
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Gas Turbine
Hydraulic Starting System:
Operation
The typical hydraulic start system is
a closed loop system with all return
lines to the hydraulic fluid reservoir.
The reservoir usually stores 40 to
50 gallons of hydraulic fluid.
Automatic temperature controls
maintain hydraulic oil temperature
between 50F and 60F.
( Contd. )
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Alarms and shutdown switches are provided for high and low hydraulic oil
temperatures and low liquid levels.
During starting system operation, the charge pump takes suction from the
hydraulic fluid reservoir through a suction strainer.
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Gas Turbine
Hydraulic Starting System:
Operation
The hydraulic starter motor is
similar to the hydraulic pump.
The motor is variable displacement
with a swash plate. The power
cylinders are arranged axially
around a shaft. The angle of the
swash plate on the shaft is
controlled by a speed-sensing
mechanism.
( Contd. )
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At speeds up to 2500 rpm, the swash plate is held at its maximum angle,
and the pistons are working through their full stroke.
At speeds over 2500 rpm, the swash plate angle decreases. At about 4500
rpm, the swash plate is almost square to the shaft.
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The fluid discharges from the starter to the low pressure side of the system
(about 150 psig) and returns through a filter to the supply pump inlet.
Solenoid control valves are sequenced and controlled by the main unit control
panel.
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Introduction
This lesson is the last in the series
about gas turbine starting systems.
Previous lessons provided important
information about pneumatic and
hydraulic starting systems.
This lesson focuses on the diesel
starting system, its components, and
operation.
The figure represents a typical diesel
starting system.
The lesson begins with the purpose of
a diesel starting system.
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Diesel Engine
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Torque Converter
The torque converter is a hydraulic
device that transmits the torque
(turning force) of the diesel engine to
the gas turbine through the ratchet
jaw clutch.
The hydraulic ratchet's jaw clutch
couples and uncouples the torque
converter and diesel engine from the
gas turbine.
Rotation of the hydraulic turbine causes the output shaft of the torque converter to rotate.
This turning force (torque) is transmitted to the gas turbine through a starting clutch.
The third component of the diesel starting system is the hydraulic ratchet assembly. The
purpose of this component is discussed next.
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Hydraulic Ratchet
Assembly
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cooling
lube oil
air
fuel
starter control
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Cooling Systems
A diesel engine uses one of two
types of cooling systems:
radiator and fan
heat exchanger
Both systems use a centrifugal water
pump to circulate coolant and a
thermostat to maintain operating
temperature.
The radiator and fan cooling system is
discussed first.
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Air System
The purpose of a diesel engine air
system is to provide air for
scavenging (removing) exhaust
gases from the engine cylinders and
for combustion.
In a two-cycle diesel, a charge of air
is forced into the cylinders by the
blower(s). Each cylinder is filled with
fresh, clean air.
( Contd.)
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The air charge thoroughly sweeps all of the burned gases out through the
exhaust valve ports.
The air helps to cool internal engine parts, particularly the exhaust valves.
The diesel starting fuel system is discussed next.
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Gas Turbine
Fuel System
The main components of the diesel
engine fuel system are:
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A diesel fuel tank is built into the base of the gas turbine.
The fuel charge pump is driven by the diesel engine camshaft. This pump
supplies fuel from the base tank to a small canister tank mounted on the
side of the engine.
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Fuel System
The main fuel pump takes suction from
the canister tank. It pumps the fuel under
pressure through the fuel filter to the fuel
header.
The main fuel pump is a positive
displacement gear pump that is attached
to the blower.
The fuel header delivers fuel to the fuel
injectors. The fuel is filtered through filter
elements in the injectors and then
atomized through small spray tip orifices
into the combustion chamber of each
cylinder.
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Control System
This section discusses the starter
control system.
The primary diesel controls are:
starter
speed control system
stop mechanism
electronic logic
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Control System
The starter is a DC electric starter motor. The
starter motor is attached to the diesel engine
block.
Lead-acid storage batteries provide electric
power for starting.
Diesel engine speed is controlled by the
variable speed governor. A hydraulic actuator
positions the governor speed control lever. A
small, engine-driven pump supplies engine oil
for actuator operation.
When the accelerating solenoid is energized,
the governor lever is driven to the high
operating speed position.
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Control System
When the solenoid is de-energized, the
lever is returned to the idle position.
The diesel engine stop mechanism is a
solenoid connected to the governor.
When the stop solenoid is energized, it
activates the shutdown mechanism,
shutting off fuel and stopping the
engine.
Electronic logic in the gas turbine control panel provides automatic sequencing of
the starter and control solenoids for normal diesel engine start-up, for normal
and emergency engine shutdown, and for exercising and testing the engine.
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Control System
To protect the diesel engine, electronic logic
also monitors the starting clutch position,
the engine lube oil pressure and the engine
speed.
Alarms and emergency shutdowns are
initiated for out-of-limit operating conditions.
If the diesel engine is tripped when the throttle
is in the full open position, the throttle does not
reset.
The next diesel engine restart will be made with the throttle set at full power. The throttle lever
should be manually reset before the next start attempt.
The next section discusses the operation of a diesel starting system.
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Operation
Following gas turbine breakaway:
acceleration solenoid is de-energized and
the diesel engine slows to approximately
1900 rpm
acceleration stop solenoid controls diesel
engine speed until the gas turbine is
sequenced through the warm-up cycle
acceleration stop solenoid is de-energized
acceleration solenoid is energized to
accelerate the diesel engine to maximum
rpm for acceleration of the gas turbine
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Operation
At diesel engine speed of 3000 to
3400 rpm:
clutch automatically disengages
acceleration solenoid is deenergized
At this time, the diesel engine:
returns to idle speed
idles through a cooldown period
stops when the stop solenoid is
energized
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Lesson : 23 Enclosure
Introduction
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Enclosure: Purpose
The purpose of an enclosure is to
protect the gas turbine/generator
set from environmental elements,
to improve appearances, and to
reduce noise, to meet local area
classifications, and to provide an
easier means for fire protection
and containment.
The enclosure discussed in this lesson is designed for outdoor installation and high wind
loads.
The enclosure is divided into compartments by bulkheads (walls).
Each compartment contains lighting, access doors, and, when needed, removable panels
for inspection and maintenance.
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Gas Turbine
Ventilation System:
Air Inlet Components
Inlet screens are installed
upstream of the weather louvers
toprevent entry of birds, leaves,
twigs, paper, and similar
objects. The screens must be
kept free from the accumulation
of this debris to ensure free
airflow.
( Contd.)
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Ventilation System:
Airflow Components
Inlet dampers are opened by airflow
when the compartment fan is
operating.
Outlet dampers are held open by
pressure-operated latches. The
latches must be manually reset after
the damper is released.
Fans provide ventilation by drawing air through the air intake and exhausting it
to the atmosphere. The purpose of fans is to increase circulation in the
enclosure. Fans may be installed in either the inlet or the exhaust duct.
An enclosure exhaust system is discussed next.
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fans
dampers
screens
louvers
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Ventilation System:
Exhaust Components
The exhaust ducting for some
enclosures contains manual dampers
that are adjusted to control ventilating
airflow through the enclosure.
Louvers may also be installed to
prevent the entry of moisture when the
unit is shut down.
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thermal switches
thermocouples
thermistors
pneumatic circuits
optical detectors
gas detectors
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Thermal Switches
Thermal switches are either:
single wire
two wire
The single-wire thermal switch
fire/rate-of-rise detection system has
heat-sensitive thermal switches
located at points in the enclosure
where temperatures are likely to be
highest.
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Thermal Switches
The sliding piston moves to the
end of the switch, the points
close, and the thermal switch
completes an electric circuit for
the alarm switch.
When the circuit is complete,
the alarm switch initiates an
alarm signal. The switch
automatically resets when it has
cooled.
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Two-Wire Thermal
Switch
The two-wire thermal switch fire/rateof-rise detection system remains
functional with either an open or a
short circuit.
The two-wire bi-metallic thermal
switch operates the same way that
the single-wire thermal switch does.
The only difference is that an electrical
lead is connected to both arms of the
thermal switch.
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Gas Turbine
Thermocouples
Thermocouples are
temperature sensing
devices, primarily used
in temperature indicating
systems, such as
exhaust gas temperature
or turbine outlet
temperature.
(Contd.)
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Thermocouples
The point where the two
dissimilar metals are
joined that will be most
exposed to the heat of a
fire is called the hot
junction.
The cold junction,
sometimes called the
reference junction, is
enclosed in dead air
space between insulation
blocks.
( Contd. )
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Thermocouples
A typical thermocouple is
installed in a protective
well or cage. Other
thermocouple cages have
several passages that
allow air (or gas) to enter
the protective cage and
surround the elements.
A thermocouple fire
detection system has a
different response to the
thermal switch system.
(Contd.)
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In a thermocouple system:
If the temperature increases rapidly, the thermocouple produces a voltage
because of the temperature difference between the hot junction and the
cold junction.
If both junctions are heated at the same rate, no voltage is generated and
no alarm signal is initiated.
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Gas Turbine
Thermistor
A thermistor (thermal resistor) is a
resistive circuit component. When
cool, a thermistor has high
resistance to current flow. As the
temperature of a thermistor
increases, its resistance decreases.
A thermistor fire/rate-of-rise
detection system is a continuous
loop system that usually surrounds
the surveillance area.
(Contd.)
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Single-wire and two-wire systems are commonly used on large gas turbines.
In the single-wire system, the outer case provides the ground potential. In
the two-wire system, the second wire provides the ground.
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Thermistor
In both systems, the power lead is insulated
from ground. The single-wire system uses an
insulator of ceramic beads that are coated with
a substance called eutectic salt. The two-wire
system uses a thermistor material to insulate
the wires.
Each of these materials loses electrical
resistance when heated.
In the fire/rate-of-rise circuit diagram shown in
the figure, 24V DC is supplied to the hot lead
through an alarm relay coil.
When cool, the insulation does not allow
current flow between the hot lead and ground.
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Thermistor
When a fire condition heats the
insulator material, it loses electrical
resistance and a path is complete
from the hot lead to ground.
The thermistor system, like the
thermal switch systems,
automatically resets when cooled.
A pneumatic fire detection system is
discussed next.
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Pneumatic Fire
Detection System
The pneumatic fire detection system uses a
gas-filled tube as a detector. The detector is
produced in various sensor tube lengths and
alarm temperatures.
The gas expands when heated. When
setpoint temperature is reached, the gas
pressure is sufficient to overcome the check
valve and gas flows from the detector tube
to the right side of the diaphragm.
This flow forces the diaphragm contacts to
the left onto the alarm contacts, which
energizes the alarm circuit.
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Optical Fire
Detection System
When two optical detectors are
installed in one compartment,
they are usually cross-zoned or
use a voting system.
Both detectors must agree that a
fire condition exists before the
fire monitoring system will
initiate action
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Gas Detection
System
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Fire Detection
System: Operation
When fire is detected by any of
the sensors, the fire control
system performs the following
functions:
The alarmed zone is indicated.
All ventilation is shut down.
An audible alarm is initiated,
specifying the zone.
(Contd.)
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Fire Detection
System: Operation
The alarms will continue until
they are manually switched off.
The fire extinguishing agent
must be recharged and the
detection/protection system
reset before the gas turbine can
be restarted.
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Sensors
Two or more sensors are installed in the gas
turbine compartment and one or more in the
generator compartment near the divider wall
where the drive shaft or coupling penetrates
the wall.
Two sensing elements are used in a sensor.
One element is calibrated to detect a low
combustible gas concentration of 15% or
20% L.E.L. L.E.L. is the lower explosive
limit.
The other element is calibrated to detect a
high combustible gas concentration of 60%
L.E.L.
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Sensors
The sensors detect the combustible
gas concentration with air at the
lower explosive limits (L.E.L.).
A 5% methane concentration with
air is the lowest concentration that
can be ignited. A 15% methane
concentration is the highest
concentration that can be ignited.
Lower or higher concentrations
cannot be ignited.
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Detection Circuit
Most gas detection systems are calibrated to
initiate an alarm when the gas concentration in
the enclosure reaches 15% to 20% L.E.L.
This is the low L.E.L. alarm.
For a low L.E.L. alarm, the combustible gas
detection system usually initiates both an audible
and a visual alarm.
Enclosure ventilation fans that are not already
running are started.
The fans continue to operate until the gas
detection/protection system is reset and the
alarm indication is cleared by the operator.
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Detection Circuit
The gas detection system is normally
provided with readout indicators.
These indicators allow the operator to
observe the presence and
concentration level of any
combustible gas that may be inside
the enclosure.
The protection system is discussed
next.
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Protection System
A high L.E.L. alarm is initiated at 60%
L.E.L. A 60% L.E.L. is a 3%
combustible gas concentration. On
some gas turbine/generator sets, a
60% L.E.L. alarm initiates the following
actions:
immediate gas turbine/generator
shutdown, if operating
immediate shutdown of all operating
enclosure ventilation fans
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Halon Extinguisher
System
Halon is a colorless, odorless, noncorrosive, and electrically non-conductive
gas. After discharge, it leaves no residue
and does not require clean-up.
Halon is a chemical compound that
inhibits combustion by reacting with
oxygen in the air, so that oxygen is
suppressed and no longer able to support
combustion.
The figure represents a typical halon
extinguisher system.
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Halon Extinguisher
System: Components
The main components of a Halon
fire extinguisher system are as
follows:
cylinders
valve assembly
pressure switches
discharge pipes and nozzles
heat (thermal) and fire (optical)
detectors
audible alarm (horn)
monitor controller
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Cylinders
Halon is stored in cylinders, on or
near the gas turbine/generator
package. The number of Halon
cylinders in a system depends on
the volume of the protected area.
A minimum of two cylinders is
required. One cylinder supplies the
initial discharge, and the other
provides the extended discharge.
Any signal which initiates Halon
discharge also trips the turbine.
(Contd. )
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Cylinders
Halon cylinders are manufactured in
different sizes from 18 to 600 pounds.
The cylinders are purged with nitrogen
and then filled with Halon.
Halon cylinders are held in the upright
position by mounting brackets.
The cylinders should be located in an
area that does not receive direct
sunlight because Halon is extremely
temperature sensitive. Halon cylinders
should not be exposed to
temperatures above 130F.
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Cylinder Valve
Assembly
A valve assembly is an integral part
of each Halon cylinder. The valve is
made of brass, which makes it
corrosion resistant.
The valve usually contains a
differential piston. Differential
piston operation allows the valve to
discharge Halon when actuated
manually, electrically, or
pneumatically.
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Cylinder Valve
Assembly Operation
Halon pressure from the cylinder
enters the valve assembly and
rises through a bleed port that
contains a ball check valve.
Halon pressure acts on both
sides of the piston with equal
pressure in areas A and B in the
figure. This pressure keeps the
Halon in the cylinder because
the piston seals off the discharge
port.
( Contd.)
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When the vent valve is actuated, there is a large pressure difference between
the top (B) and bottom (A) areas of the valve. When the ball check valve
closes the bleed port, Halon cannot flow to the top of the piston and the
pressure in areas A and B are no longer equal
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Cylinder Valve
Assembly Operation
The valve is actuated by venting
pressure from the top of the piston
through the vent valve.
When the pressure is vented, there
is no downward force acting on the
piston. The piston moves upward,
the discharge port is opened, and
Halon is released into the system.
The release of Halon is initiated by
valve actuators. The valve actuators
are described next.
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Types of Cylinder
Valve Actuators
Different types of valve actuators are
used to initiate Halon discharge,
depending on the environmental and
system design. They are:
electrical/latching
pneumatic
manual-local override
manual-cable pull
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When mounted on the Halon valve vent fitting, the pneumatic valve actuator
provides direct actuation of the vent valve.
When mounted on an electrical actuator, the pneumatic actuator closes a
switch that causes the electrical actuator to operate.
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Pressure Switches
Pressure switches are installed in Halon fire
extinguisher systems to monitor the pressure in
the storage cylinders and in the discharge
piping.
In the figure, low pressure switches (PSL)
monitor the pressure in the two Halon
cylinders. If the pressure in a cylinder
decreases to 185 psig, the switch iniates an
alarm.
The high pressure switch is identified as PSH in
the figure. When the Halon pressure in the
discharge manifold reaches 150 psig, the high
pressure switch signals the control system that
a cylinder has discharged.
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Pressure Switches
Most fire extinguisher control
systems are programmed to
discharge another cylinder if the
high pressure signal has not been
transmitted within a certain period,
usually 5 seconds.
The components used to discharge
the extinguishing agent are
discussed next.
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Monitor Controller
The last component discussed in the Halon fire
extinguishing system is the fire monitor controller.
This controller works in conjunction with other gas
turbine control systems. The controller uses a
microprocessor system to monitor signals from
sensors installed in the enclosure.
An example of a monitor controller is shown in the
figure. The controller illustrated is typical of a
monitor controller for an optical fire detection
system with two independent types of detectors. A
signal is sent to the controller only when both
detectors sense a fire simultaneously.
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Monitor Controller
The controller monitors up to eight zones. One
LED (light emitting diode) is provided for each
zone. An LED blinks when a fire is present in the
corresponding zone.
One LED is also provided for each voting zone. A
lit LED signals that the voting zone is actuated.
The Test/Accept push-button disables an
energized alarm or initiates a manual test of a
selected detector.
The inhibit LED is illuminated in the Test or Reset
mode to indicate that the controller outputs are
inhibited.
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Monitor Controller
When the lamp test switch is depressed, all LEDs
and digital displays illuminate. In the reset mode,
the lamp test switch indicates a complete system
reset.
The mode switch is used to select Normal, Reset,
or Test mode. The power LED illuminates when
power is applied to the fire detection system.
The fault LED illuminates on fire detection system
malfunction or when the controller is in the Reset
or Test mode.
The system status display provides a numerical
code to report the system status.
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Monitor Controller
The zone digital display identifies the zone
and the fire detection system conditions in
that zone.
The select push-button selects the desired
detector for testing.
Halon and CO2 fire extinguisher systems
are very similar. A brief discussion of the
CO2 system follows.
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Gas Turbine
CO2 Extinguisher
System: Description
A CO2 fire extinguisher system has the
same basic components as the Halon
system. The CO2 components are
shown in the figure. A CO2 system also
operates in the same manner as a
Halon system.
CO2 (carbon dioxide) fire protection
systems extinguish fires by reducing the
oxygen content of the air in the
compartment.
( Contd. )
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Gas Turbine
CO2 Extinguisher System:
Description
A CO2 fire protection system supplies
CO2 from either low pressure storage
tanks or high pressure cylinders to a
distribution system.
This system transfers the CO2 to
discharge nozzles located in the various
compartments of the gas turbine
package.
Low pressure storage tanks maintain
saturated liquid CO2 at 300 psig and
0F with a refrigeration system.
( Contd.)
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Actuator Arrangement
A CO2 system may be actuated by several
different methods.
Pilot-operated selector valves in the CO2
discharge valve are opened when solenoid
valves are energized, when the pull lever is
actuated, or when another cylinder is
discharged.
The solenoid valves are actuated by an
electric signal from the fire detectors. The
system may also be manually actuated by
switches located on the electrical control
cabinet or by manual valves located in the
control cabinet.
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Gas Turbine
Discharge Systems:
Initial
Two separate discharge
systems are used in a CO2
system:
initial discharge
extended discharge
Within a few seconds of actuation,
sufficient CO2 flows from the initial
discharge system into the
compartment to rapidly build up the
CO2 concentration.
( Contd.)
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Discharge Systems:
Extended
The orifices for the initial discharge
system permit a rapid discharge of
CO2 to quickly build up an
extinguishing concentration.
Orifices for the extended discharge
system are smaller for a relatively
slow discharge rate.
By maintaining the extinguishing
concentration, the likelihood of a
fire reigniting is minimized.
( Contd.)
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In addition to their use of similar components, both the Halon and CO2
extinguisher systems operate the same.
The discussion about extinguisher systems continues with a description of
the operation of a typical fire extinguisher system.
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Extinguisher
Systems: Operation
The figure shows the
components found in a typical
fire extinguisher system. In this
system the first line of defense
against fire is provided by the
optical detectors.
Optical detectors usually have a
response time of less than 5
seconds and an 80 degree field
of vision.
( Contd.)
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Extinguisher Systems:
Operation
Thermal detectors are installed in a
gas turbine enclosure as a
redundant detection system to the
optical detectors. Thermal detectors
initiate an alarm when the
temperature in a gas turbine
enclosure reaches 450 degrees F.
The sequence of events that occurs
when a fire is detected is described
next.
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Extinguisher Systems:
Operation
When a fire is detected, an alarm signal is sent to the
fire monitor/controller and other gas turbine control
systems.
This signal initiates the fire extinguisher agent
discharge, alarms, and shutdowns.
In a typical fire extinguishing system, the following
sequence occurs:
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Extinguisher Systems:
Operation
After 5 to 10 seconds (time delay), extinguishing
agent is released by actuation of the cylinder
valves.
Extinguishing agent flows through the valve into
the piping.
The high pressure switch signals the control
systems that the extinguishing agent has been
discharged.
Extinguishing agent pressure unlatches the
ventilation dampers in the turbine and generator.
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Extinguisher Systems:
Operation
Extinguisher agent is discharged into the turbine
and generator compartments.
After the initial discharge, the extended discharge
starts and maintains compartment flooding for
approximately 10 minutes.
After emergency shutdown and the fire is
extinguished, the following should occur
before inspecting the space for fire damage:
Allow the machine to cool down.
Thoroughly ventilate the enclosure.
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Extinguisher Systems:
Operation
The fire and heat detectors must be
cleaned and tested.
The fire extinguisher system must be
serviced, refilled and reset.
The ventilation dampers must be
latched to restore the fire protection
system to service.
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Electrical Circuit
Components
A basic electrical circuit consists of:
power supply
load
conductor
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Electrical Circuit
Measurement
Voltage is always measured across
an element. For example, to
measure the voltage across the load
in the figure, the voltmeter is placed
in parallel with or across the load.
To measure the current flowing in
the circuit, the ammeter is inserted
into the circuit. This is an example of
placing the ammeter in series with
the load.
(Contd.)
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The resistance can be calculated after the voltage and current are measured.
For example, if the voltage is 24 volts and the current is 6 amps, the
resistance of the load is 4 ohms.
Information about the theory of magnetism is presented next.
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Magnetic Fields
Electricity flowing in a circuit
creates a magnetic field.
The figure shows the effect of a
magnetic field on a compass
needle.
The needle aligns itself parallel with
the magnetic field lines created by
the current.
This alignment is caused by the force
of the magnetic field.
(Contd.)
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Magnetic Fields
The strength of a magnetic field
can be increased by winding a
conductor around a core, forming
a coil.
The magnetic field strength
increases as the number of
windings increases.
The direction and amount of
current flowing through the coil
determines the magnetic pole and
strength of the magnetic field.
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Electromagnetic
Induction
Just as current flowing through a conductor
creates a magnetic field, a magnetic field can
cause current to flow through a conductor.
This principle is the basis for a simple generator.
The conductor is moved through a magnetic
field, and current flow is induced.
This is known as electromagnetic induction.
The current is produced only when the
conductor is moving in a direction that is
perpendicular (90) to the magnetic field.
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Generation of AC
Current
Electricity is generated as the coil
rotates through the magnetic field.
At position 1, no current is generated.
As the coil rotates to position 2, the
current increases to a maximum
output.
The current output returns to zero as
the coil is rotated to position 3. As the
coil is rotated to position 4, the
current reverses direction to a
maximum negative value. ( Contd.)
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As the coil continues rotating and returns to position 1, the current output
returns to zero.
This is how alternating current (AC) is generated.
The current and voltage alternates between a positive and negative value.
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AC Frequency
The AC frequency is the number of
complete cycles generated per second.
The unit of measurement for frequency
is hertz, abbreviated Hz.
A complete cycle occurs when the
current moves from zero to a
maximum positive to zero to a
maximum negative and back to zero. A
complete cycle in one second equals
one (1) Hz.
Common frequencies generated are 50
Hz and 60 Hz.
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Calculating Frequency
The generators discussed so far are two-pole
generators. A two-pole generator has one magnetic
field with one north pole and one south pole.
Remember that each cycle completed in one second is 1
Hz. A generator with four poles completes two electrical
cycles for each mechanical revolution.
The output frequency of any generator can be
determined using the following equation:
f=p(rpm)/120
Where f is the output frequency, P is the number of
poles, rpm is rotational speed of the generator shaft.
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Gas Turbine
Three-Phase Generator
Three-phase current is generated by
three coils on the same shaft.
A three-phase generator has three
coils, also known as windings. Each
coil carries the current produced as it
passes through the magnetic field.
The coils are located at 120
increments around the shaft.
( Contd.)
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Three-Phase Generator
Connections
Three-phase generator outputs are
connected two different ways:
WYE configuration
DELTA configuration
In the WYE connection, one side of A, B,
and C, is connected to the neutral
terminal.
(Contd.)
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Generator-Control:
Transformer
The voltage produced by either a wye or
delta connected generator is often
different from that needed by the load. A
transformer is used to regulate the
voltages.
For example, a motor that requires a 480
volt source cannot be driven by a 24,000
volt supply. In this situation, a
transformer steps down the voltage.
A transformer uses electromagnetic
induction to regulate the voltages.
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Generator-Control:
Transformer Coils
A transformer has two coils, a
primary coil and a secondary coil.
The primary coil is the supply
voltage. The secondary coil is the
induced voltage.
The primary coil has current
flowing through it from the
generator.
(Contd.)
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This creates a magnetic field that induces current to flow in the secondary
coil.
Transformers only work with AC because of the current flowing into, then out
of, the primary coil determines the voltage output in the secondary coil.
The fluctuating magnetic field produces the same result as moving a
conductor in a magnetic field.
The ratio of the number of windings in the primary coil to the number of
windings in the secondary coil is the electromagnetically induced voltage.
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Step-Up Transformer
Based on the ratio of windings,
transformers are one of two
types:
step-up
step-down
A step-up transformer has fewer
windings in the primary coil than in
the secondary coil. It increases the
voltage.
(Contd.)
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Step-Down
Transformer
A step-down transformer has a greater
number of windings in the primary coil
than in the secondary coil. It decreases
the voltage.
For example, if the primary coil has 100
turns at 110 volts AC and the secondary
coil has 10 turns, the secondary coil has
11 volts AC across it.
The transformer is a step down
transformer because it steps down the
voltage produced by the generator.
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Generator Control:
Rectifying Diodes
Sometimes it is necessary to
extract DC power from an AC
generator.
In a generator, the main generator
field and the exciter field both
require DC voltage.
This requirement is achieved with
rectifying diodes.
(Contd.)
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Generator:
Components &
Operation
The basic industrial generator
consists of three generators in one,
all driven by the same shaft:
permanent magnet generator
exciter generator
main power producing generator
The three generators work together
to produce power for industrial
loads.
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Permanent Magnet
Generator
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Exciter Generator
The exciter generator is connected to the
main generator field.
Current from the exciter generator flows
through the main generator field.
Remember the current flowing from the
exciter generator to the main generator
field is controlled by the voltage
regulator.
Diodes are also used in the exciter
generator to supply the main generator
field with DC current.
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Main Generator
The main generator field induces
current to flow in the main
generator windings, supplying
power to the loads in the area, such
as motors.
The output of the main generator
windings is sensed by the voltage
regulator.
If the voltage sensed is low,
additional voltage is supplied to the
exciter generator.
(Contd.)
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frame
rotor
bearings
stator
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Frame
The generator frame has two
purposes:
house the internal parts of the
generator
support the weight of the rotor and
stator plus any rotational or vibrational
forces
The frame is finished with a coating,
usually paint, that provides protection
against corrosion and the environment.
(Contd.)
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A frame is usually of one piece construction and includes the generator case.
The case is designed with air passages to allow cooling air to circulate into
and out of the generator.
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Case
As shown in the figure, the
case contains:
rotor
bearings and seals
generator field windings
stator
The generator rotor is discussed
next.
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Rotor
The generator rotor is housed
within the generator case and is
supported at each end by
bearings.
One end of the rotor is the drive
end and the other is the exciter
end.
Mounted on the rotor are:
cooling fans
main generator field windings
PMG magnets
exciter windings.
(Contd.)
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The purpose of the rotor is to rotate the field windings to move magnetic
lines of force through the windings of the stator core.
The moving field induces emf in the stator windings. The rotor assembly is
dynamically balanced to minimize vibration.
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Bearings
The purpose of the bearings that
support the rotor ends is to minimize
friction associated with the rotating
shaft.
Damage to bearings usually occurs as
a result of high temperatures.
Temperature sensors are installed in
the bearings to provide an alarm or
automatic shutdown if overheating
occurs.
(Contd.)
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The generator lube oil system, discussed in detail in the next lesson,
provides lubrication of the bearings and removes heat created by friction.
The rotor windings are the main generator field. This field causes
electromagnetic induction to occur in the stator windings.
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Gas Turbine
Stator
The stator contains the stator
windings, or armature.
The stator is made out of segmented
plates called laminates.
The purpose of the stator is to
generate the AC voltage that is
conducted to the electrical circuit.
(Contd.)
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Recall from the preceding lesson that a three-phase generator has three
separate stator windings.
One end of each phase is connected to a terminal for circuit connection.
The other end of each phase is connected to a common neutral terminal.
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A reliable lube oil system is critical for generator operation. If the lube oil
supply to the bearings is stopped during operation, the bearings and rotor
shaft journal will be severely damaged.
Lube oil must be supplied to the generator bearings before and during
start-up, during operation, while the generator is coasting to a stop, and
during the cool-down cycle.
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. oil filters
instruments and controls
piping
If needed, return to the lessons covering these components and review the
information before continuing on in this lesson.
This lesson continues with information on the generator lube oil system's
instruments and alarms.
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Switches, Transmitter,
& Indicator
The next protective devices are the low
pressure switch (PSL), the low-low
pressure switch (PSLL), and the pressure
transmitter (PT). These devices initiate
signals to the gas turbine generator
control system.
If lube oil pressure decreases to 20 psig,
the PSL transmits an alarm signal to the
control system. If lube oil pressure
continues to decrease, the PSLL initiates
an alarm and a shutdown signal at 12
psig.
( Contd. )
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The PT signals lube oil pressure to the control system for operator readout.
Lube oil system pressure may be observed at the local pressure indicator (PI).
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Temperature Instruments
A temperature element (TE) monitors
lube oil temperature in the oil header to
the generator. This device initiates an
alarm if lube oil temperature reaches or
exceeds 160F.
If lube oil temperature reaches 190F, a
shutdown signal is transmitted to the
control system. Lube oil from the
generator oil header is separated into
two equal flows to the bearings. Oil flow
into each bearing is controlled by an
orifice in the supply line. ( Contd. )
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In the figure, each bearing has two temperature detector elements. These
detectors are imbedded in the bearings to measure the temperature of the
bearing metal.
The TEs initiate an alarm at 197F and shut down at 203F. These TEs may
also signal the fire monitor/controller to discharge the fire extinguisher
agent.
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The purpose of a
generator cooling system
is to cool the generator
internally.
It accomplishes this
cooling through an open
or a closed cooling air
circuit.
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Generator Cooling
System: Components
The main components of a generator cooling
system are similar in purpose and function to
those of an enclosure cooling system.
inlet filter
inlet duct
heavy duty axial flow fan(s)
internal air passages
exhaust ducts
heat exchangers (generators with closed air
circuits)
temperature measuring devices
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Gas Turbine
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Gas Turbine
(Contd.)
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Gas Turbine
Heat Exchanger
Some site conditions such as severe
desert conditions, salty atmosphere,
contaminated environment or
hazardous area classification require a
closed cooling air circuit.
In a closed cooling air circuit, the hot
exhaust air from the generator is
cooled in an exchanger loop and then
returned to the generator.
(Contd.)
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Make-up cooling air for the generator's closed air circuit is provided by the
pressurized generator enclosure.
Air cooling is accomplished by a water-to-air or air-to-air heat exchanger.
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Heat Exchanger
The heat exchanger is usually
mounted in a steel housing on top of
the generator, but it can be designed
and positioned as needed.
A common arrangement places the
heat exchanger on the roof of the
generator enclosure with ducting to
and from the heat exchanger.
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Resistance
Temperature Detectors
Generators include resistance temperature
detectors (RTDs). These devices measure the
following generator component temperatures:
stator winding
enclosure
exhaust duct
bearings
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Resistance
Temperature Detectors
An RTD consists of a resistance probe in
a DC circuit. The probe contains a
temperature-sensitive nickel wire that is
wound around a mica core contained in a
metal outer casing.
The probe is installed in a strategic
location to monitor stator core
temperature.
RTD temperature readouts are displayed
at the gas turbine generator control Video
Display Unit (VDU).
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Gas Turbine
Resistance Temperature
Detectors
(Contd. )
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In the system shown, the circuit provides an alarm when one of the stator
RTDs senses stator temperature in excess of 270F. The system initiates a
shutdown when the stator RTD level of temperature increases to 290F.
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Resistance
Temperature Detectors
The generator air inlet and air outlet
plenums contain separate RTDs to
monitor generator air temperature.
The inlet air circuit initiates an alarm
when the temperature reaches
115F and a shutdown at 150F.
The air outlet circuit activates an
alarm at 200F and shuts down at
220F.
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Gas Turbine
Cooling System
Operation
Generator cooling system operation
is through either an open or a closed
cooling air circuit.
Open cooling air circuits are usually
used on small 750 KW generators up
to 30,000 KW G.E. generators.
Cooling air is drawn into both ends
of the generator.
(Contd.)
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Cooling System
Operation
The exciter and PMG are cooled by
air flowing through the exciter cover.
In the generator, air flows along the
rotor, through rotor cooling slots, and
through the stator core via ducts and
air passages.
The airflow absorbs some of the heat
that is produced by generator
operation.
During generator operation, rotor and stator temperatures are designed for even
distribution.
After flowing through the generator the heated air is discharged to the atmosphere through
the generator air exhaust duct.
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Cooling System
Operation
Large generators have cylindrical rotors with
limited heat dissipation surface. Forced air
ventilation through the generator must be used
to remove the heat.
Generator heat must be constantly removed to
prevent winding damage. Airflow through the
generator picks up heat from the generator
windings and gives up the heat to circulating
water or air in the heat exchanger.
Cooling air is forced through the generator by
two axial flow fans mounted on the rotor shaft.
Aluminum alloy fan blades are set in slots in a
steel ring.
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Cooling System
Operation
Some of the cool incoming air is
ducted to the generator exciter,
which is also equipped with an axial
flow cooling fan.
A generator ventilation system is
discussed next.
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Generator Ventilation
System: Purpose
The purpose of a generator ventilation
system is to pressurize the generator
enclosure to prevent entry of any
leaking fuel gas and to provide cooling
airflow through the enclosure.
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Ventilation System:
Components
The main components of a generator
ventilation system are similar in
purpose and function to those of a
turbine enclosure ventilation system.
These components are:
inlet air filter
air inlet duct or exhaust fans
air inlet duct with fire damper
air exhaust duct with fire damper
L.E.L. gas detectors and fire
detectors
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Ventilation System:
Operation
In the operation of a typical gas
turbine/generator enclosure
ventilation system, two generator
enclosure vent fans draw air from the
atmosphere through an inlet air filter.
Vent fan operation pressurizes the
enclosure.
The figure shows a typical gas
turbine/generator enclosure. (Contd.)
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Ventilating air circulates through both sides of the enclosure and exits to
the atmosphere via exhaust ducts.
During normal gas turbine/generator operation only one of the
ventilation fans is operating. The other one serves as a standby unit.
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Ventilation System:
Operation
Gas and fire detectors are mounted on the
walls of the generator compartment.
Gas detectors are used to detect the
presence of combustible gas at a preset
L.E.L. (Lower Explosive Limit). When the
preset limit is reached an alarm is initiated.
Fire detectors are used to detect a fire or
overheating condition in the generator
compartment. An alarm is initiated
immediately when a fire or overheating
condition is detected.
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The purpose of the voltage regulator is to match the output voltage of the
main generator with the voltage of the distribution system.
The voltage regulator senses the output voltage of the generator and
adjusts the voltage applied to the field of windings.
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Synchronization System:
Purpose/Types
Another protection system of the main
generator is the synchronization system.
The purpose of the synchronization
system is to ensure that the generator
output is in phase with that of the
distribution system.
Synchronization is one of two types:
manual or automatic.
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Synchronization
System: Manual
Manual synchronization is done through
monitoring the synch lamps and the synch
scope. These devices allow the operator to
match the frequency and the phase of the
generator and the distribution system.
The operator matches the generator
frequency and phase with that of the
distribution system by adjusting the fuel
flow (speed) of the turbine.
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Synchronization System:
Automatic
Automatic synchronization first
compares the two frequencies. It then
signals the fuel system to adjust the
turbine speed to match distribution
system frequency and phase.
After the generator and the distribution
system are synchronized, automatic
synchronization matches the voltage
and initiates an automatic close signal
to the main circuit breaker.
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Electrical Protective
Relays: Synch Check
Electrical protective relays protect
generator circuits against high and low
voltage and current. The protective
relays discussed in this lesson are as
follows:
synch check
generator differential
reverse power
loss of excitation
generator time overcurrent (Contd.)
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. over/under frequency
overvoltage
undervoltage
overvoltage ground relay
Protective relays follow a standard numbering system that is used for all
generators.
The synch check relay, number 25, confirms that the generator is
synchronized with the distribution system. It prevents circuit breaker
operation when the generator is not synchronized with the distribution
system.
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Without this relay, a faulty motor could shut down the distribution
system.
This relay allows time for the motor's circuit breaker to trip first, allowing
the generator to continue operation. If the overcurrent condition
continues after the time delay, the 51V relay will trip the generator
breaker.
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Over/Under Frequency
& Voltage Relay
The over/under frequency relay, number 81,
detects both over and underfrequency operation.
These conditions indicate generator overspeed or
underspeed.
Relay 81 is a backup for turbine underspeed and
overspeed.
The overvoltage relay, number 59 and the
undervoltage relay, number 27, protect the
generator if the automatic voltage regulator fails.
Over/undervoltage conditions may occur routinely
during normal operation. Therefore, these relays
have a built-in time delay.
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Vibration Monitoring:
Purpose
Vibration monitoring is important to
preventing damage to the gas
turbine generator.
The purpose of the vibration
monitoring system is to detect
vibration and shut down the
generator if excessive vibration
occurs. Protection against excessive
vibration increases the life of the
generator and reduces maintenance
costs.
(Contd.)
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Gas Compression:
Purposes
The purposes of gas
compression are:
store energy
reservoir maintenance
gas transmission
increase storage capabilities
liquid production
gas lift
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Store Energy
Air tools such as jackhammers and impact
ratchets are operated by compressed air.
These tools work by changing potential
energy into kinetic energy.
When a gas is compressed and put in a
"receiver tank", the potential energy is
stored.
The figure shows potential energy and
kinetic energy. The balloon is full of air
under pressure and is not moving. This is an
example of potential energy or energy at
rest and stored energy.
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Gas Turbine
Reservoir Maintenance
Compressed gas is used in reservoir
maintenance to keep sufficient gas
pressure in the reservoir to maintain
production levels.
A reduction in gas pressure occurs
naturally in reservoirs. As oil is
produced, gas in the reservoir has a
larger space to occupy. This
decreases the reservoir pressure and
reduces oil flow to the surface.
(Contd. )
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Another way reservoir pressure is reduced is, as oil is extracted from the
reservoir, gas molecules become entrained in the oil. When the oil and gas
mixture is produced from the wellhead, the amount of gas in the reservoir is
reduced and reservoir gas pressure begins to decline.
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Gas Transmission
Compressing a gas allows its transmission
through a pipeline. The gas will always move
from a higher pressure to the lower pressure.
The balloon mentioned previously contains air
that is at a higher pressure than the outside
air.
When the stem of the balloon is released, the
higher pressure air inside moves to the lower
pressure air outside.
If the stem of the balloon were attached to a
tube with the opposite end opened to
atmosphere, the air would move down the
tube.
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Increased Storage
Capacity
Compressing gases increases storage
capabilities. When gases are
compressed, their volume is decreased.
This decrease in volume allows more scf
(standard cubic feet) of gas to be stored
in the same size storage tank.
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Production of Liquids
Compressing gases can also produce liquids.
Normally, oxygen is a gas. The molecules
are relatively far apart.
Compressing the oxygen forces the
molecules closer together. The oxygen will
become a liquid if compressed to a high
enough pressure. Many gases will liquify if
they are compressed to a high enough
pressure.
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Gas Lift
Compressed gas is also used in gas lift.
Compressed gas is sent down into the
earth to force oil to the surface.
The gas carries the crude to the surface
where it is then separated.
Gas injection increases the gas specific
density which allows it to move to the
surface at the same downhole pressure.
The next section of this lesson explains
the operating principle of centrifugal gas
compressors.
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Operating Principle
Centrifugal compressors operate on the principle
of centrifugal force. This principle is illustrated in
the figure.
When a ball on a string is swung around in a
circle, a centrifugal force requires that the string
be held or the ball will fly off.
If a long string is used and is slowly let out, the
circle gets bigger and bigger.
When gas in a compressor is forced to move in a
circle, centrifugal force causes it to move away
from the center of the circle at high speed.
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Centrifugal Compressor:
Components
The centrifugal compressor changes the
kinetic energy of the moving gas into
potential energy by forcing the gas to
slow down, which increases the
pressure.
Centrifugal compressors are generally
used in applications that involve large
volumes of gas with compression ratios
up to 3.5.
(Contd.)
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Compression Ratio
The figure shows the pressure rise
across the compressor.
The discharge pressure is equal to the
suction pressure plus the pressure rise
across the compressor stage. If the
suction pressure is increased, the
discharge pressure also increases.
The ratio of the discharge pressure to
the suction pressure is the compression
ratio.
(The discharge pressure divided by the
suction pressure).
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Compressor Drivers
The compressor requires a driver to
spin the impeller.
The driver can be a gas turbine,
steam turbine, gas or diesel engine,
or an electric motor. The figure
shows a typical gas turbine-driven
compressor set.
The next section of this lesson
explains multistage centrifugal
compressor operation.
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Compressor Operation
As mentioned previously, the discharge
pressure is equal to the suction
pressure plus the pressure increase
across the compressor stage.
The pressure can be increased
significantly if the discharge from one
compressor is fed to the inlet of another
compressor.
The discharge pressure of the second
stage equals the suction pressure of the
first stage plus the pressure rise across
both stages. This is an example of
tandem compressors.
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Compressor
Operation
Multistage compressors use multiple
impellers to achieve a greater pressure
increase than is possible using a single
impeller.
A four-stage centrifugal compressor is
shown in the figure. This compressor has
four impellers. Each impeller in the
compressor is known as a compression
stage.
The impellers are separated by
diaphragms. Diaphragms direct the flow
from the outlet of the impeller to the eye
of the next impeller.
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Compressor Casing
The purpose of a compressor casing is
to house the internal parts, hold the
pressure created by the impeller, and
direct the flow toward the discharge.
The figure shows a single-stage
compressor.
The rotating impeller accelerates the
gas, which is then directed to the gas
outlet nozzle.
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One advantage of a vertically split casing is that the seal formed by the end
cover and casing is not subject to high pressure. Therefore, vertically split
casings are used for high pressure applications.
Another advantage of a vertically split casing is that it can withstand higher
temperatures. The casing expands uniformly when it is exposed to the heat
of compression, which reduces the stress on the case.
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Horizontally Split
Casing
A casing can also be split
horizontally. An advantage of this
design is easier maintenance. The
internal components are easily
accessible when the top half of the
casing is removed.
Because the seal on the
horizontally split casing is subject to
high pressure, it is not as suitable
for high pressure applications.
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Impellers
The purpose of impellers is to increase
the velocity of the incoming gas,
which is then converted into an
increase in pressure and temperature.
This increase in velocity occurs as the
impeller rotates.
The gas enters the center of the
impeller, known as the eye. It is
accelerated outward and collected in
the volute. The pressure increase
results from decreasing the volume of
the gas.
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Impeller Designs
Impellers are classified by their design
and manufacturing method.
Impellers are open, semi-closed, or
closed.
Some types of impellers are shown in
the figure.
Impellers are dynamically spin balanced
to reduce vibration.
Balancing RPM varies with the size of
the impeller.
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Gas Turbine
Compressor Shaft
& Rotor Assembly
The compressor shaft is machined to
tight tolerances and then
dynamically balanced. Various
components are added to the shaft,
and the complete unit is called the
rotor assembly.
The illustration shows a typical
seven-stage rotor assembly. The
rotor must be balanced at each
stage of completion to prevent
vibration. Vibration during operation
can cause severe damage to the
compressor.
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Mounting Methods
Various methods are used to attach impellers to
the sleeves. One method uses a key that prevents
the impeller from turning independently of the
shaft.
Another method is called shrink fitting. With this
method, the impeller is gradually heated and
allowed to expand. The impeller is then slipped
over the sleeve on the shaft and allowed to cool.
Once cool, it contracts and forms a tight friction fit
onto the sleeve. This same procedure is used for
fitting the sleeves to the shaft.
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Rotor Thrust
Compressors increase the
pressure of the gas. As a
result, the outlet pressure of
each stage is higher than the
inlet pressure. These forces
produce a thrust on the
rotor. The resulting force
tends to move the rotor
toward the lower suction.
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Balancing Drum
A balancing drum is used to
compensate for the thrust. A
balancing drum is a solid metal
cylinder with a labyrinth seal that is
attached to the rotor shaft behind
the last impeller.
High pressure discharge gas exists
on a very small area on one side of
the drum. Suction pressure is piped
to the full face area on the other
side. This arrangement produces a
counteracting force that reduces the
total thrust.
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Load Bearings
Two types of bearings are used in
compressors: load and thrust bearings.
Load bearings, also called main or
journal bearings, support the weight of
the rotor and prevent radial movement.
The load bearings have no rotating
elements. The lubrication system
provides a film of oil between the
bearing and the shaft. This oil film
prevents metal-to-metal contact and
reduces wear.
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Thrust Bearings
Thrust bearings prevent axial movement
of the shaft caused by thrust forces.
A thrust collar is fitted to the shaft and
rotates with the shaft. The thrust bearing
is stationary with the casing.
Pads tilt on the leveling plates. The
leveling plates tilt-a result of lube oil
hydraulic forces caused by aligning the
pads with the thrust collar pad. The plates
ensure that every shoe carries an equal
load.
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Gas Turbine
Seals
Seals prevent most of the gas from
leaking into the atmosphere and
leaking between stages. The types
of seals discussed in this module
include the following:
labyrinth
segmented ring
mechanical
liquid film
(Contd.)
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The simplest type of seal is the labyrinth seal. The basic labyrinth seal has
teeth machined into a metal ring attached to the casing. The labyrinth
seal can also be an interlocking seal with teeth machined into the shaft
and into the ring as shown in the figure.
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Mechanical Seals
Mechanical seals rely on contact to
provide sealing.
One element of the seal is
stationary, (stationary face) and the
other moves with the rotor (rotating
face).
To reduce wear, a carbon ring is
placed between the two metal
surfaces.
Lubrication is provided to reduce the
friction.
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Guide Vanes
The purpose of guide vanes is to re-direct
the flow of gas entering the compressor and
through the compressor.
An example of an adjustable inlet guide
vane is shown in the figure.
Inlet guide vanes direct the incoming gas in
the desired direction of flow.
The guide vanes for interstage impellers are
not adjustable and are built into the
diaphragm.
Interstage guide vanes direct the flow of gas
into the next impeller eye.
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Multi-Stage
Compressor
A multi-stage compressor has two or more
impellers on a single shaft. The shaft includes
sleeves, impellers, balance drum, etc., and is
called a rotor. These are the parts that rotate
inside the casing.
The figure shows a four-stage and a two-stage
compressor. The stage components permit easy
changing of parts. Stages can be removed or
changed to meet changing operating
requirements.
Impeller rotation and centrifugal forces
maintain the gas flow through the compressor.
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Compressor Surge
A condition called surge occurs when
the flow of gas being discharged is
less than the gas flowing into the
suction.
This condition causes areas of high
pressure in the compressor where the
gas flow stops.
Severe damage can occur if this
condition is allowed to continue.
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Diaphragms
The impellers on the rotor shaft are
separated by diaphragms.
Diaphragms divide the individual stages in
a multistage compressor.
Diaphragms convert velocity to pressure
and are sometimes referred to as
diffusers. Additionally, diaphragms
redirect the gas flow evenly into the
following impeller suction eye.
Couplings are the last of the compressor
components to be discussed.
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Couplings: Purpose
The purpose of couplings is to
connect the driver to the
compressor. Couplings are also
used to connect gearboxes to
the driver and to the
compressor.
Couplings provide a flexible
connection to reduce
compressor and driver vibration
and wear.
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Couplings: Types
Three types of couplings are
discussed in this section:
spring grid coupling
gear coupling
flexible disc coupling
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Primary Purpose
The primary purpose of the compressor
lube oil system is to reduce friction between
moving parts. It does this by providing a
film of oil between the moving parts.
As long as the oil film is unbroken, any
friction in the compressor is fluid friction
instead of metal-to-metal friction.
For example, oil pressure lifts the journal of
a shaft off the bearing on which it is resting.
As the shaft rotates, a layer of oil prevents
the journal from touching the bearing.
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reservoir
pumps
coolers
filters
control system
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Reservoir
The purpose of the lube oil
reservoir is to store lube oil
and provide a reliable supply
of lube oil to the lube oil
pumps.
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Oil Coolers
The purpose of oil coolers is to remove heat
passed to the lube oil from the compressor.
The oil carries heat away from the
compressor. The heat is removed from the oil
when the oil is routed to the oil cooler.
Because heat can cause decomposition of the
oil, oil temperatures must be carefully
controlled by automatic temperature
regulators.
Two coolers are generally provided so that
maintenance can be done on one while the
other is in service.
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Oil Filters
The purpose of oil filters is to
remove particles that are
suspended in the oil.
As the oil circulates through the
compressor, it collects foreign
matter and carries it away with
the oil that is returned to the
lube oil reservoir.
Any foreign matter in the oil is
removed by the filtration systems
so only clean oil is circulated to
the compressor.
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Control System
The last area of the lube oil system is the
control system. This system is discussed in
greater detail in the next lesson.
The lube oil control system has various
sensors that provide shutdown or alarms if
the system is operating outside
predetermined parameters.
The figure shows some of these sensors,
including a low pressure switch,
differential pressure across the filters, lube
oil temperature, pressure switches, and
lube oil reservoir level.
The seal oil system is discussed next.
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Manual Control
Manual control is the simplest level of
control. Manual control depends on the
actions of the operator.
In this level of control the operator:
sets valve positions
starts and stops pumps
makes all adjustments to the process
The next level of control is sequence control.
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Sequence Control
Sequence control uses an
automated system and operating
instructions. The instructions are
listed in the order required to
perform a certain task to reach a
desired result.
The sequence may begin with the
operator pushing a button in a
remotely located control room.
( Contd.)
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Decision-Making
Control
Decision-making control (PLC)
adjusts the process and makes
decisions based on compressor
performance feedback.
Examples of this level of control
are automatic start-up and
shutdown of compressors based
on header pressure.
( Contd. )
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Optimizing Control
Optimizing control is the most
complex control. This control
system measures the process
performance and makes
adjustments to reach an optimal
level.
Optimizing control measures
changes in process variables,
predicts the resulting changes to
the process, and adjusts the
process to reach a predetermined
level of performance.
(Contd.)
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Control System:
Components
Control system components and
instruments include the following
devices:
sensing
monitoring
protective
sequencing
regulating
optimizing
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Protective &
Sequencing Devices
Regulating devices receive
information from sensing devices
and adjust the process to achieve a
certain setpoint.
Regulating devices such as the
anti-surge controller make
adjustments based only on the
current measurement and do not
predict trends, as does an
optimizing system, which is
discussed next.
(Contd.)
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compression ratio
operating speed
percent of design flow
inlet guide vane adjustment
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The left side of the graph shows the surge line. Compressor surge
occurs when there is an insufficient flow of gas through the compressor
for a given differential pressure or compression ratio.
The compressor will be damaged if it continuously operates in the surge
region.
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Compressor Capacity
Control
Safe compressor operating limits are between the surge
region on the left and a maximum capacity limitation
(stonewall) on the right.
For the compressor operating point shown in the graph,
only 80% of the design gas flow rate is available.
To use the graph, determine the percentage (%) speed
and compression ratio, then move down to find the
capacity. At this speed and ratio this is the expected
throughput (80%).
The compressor will not operate at 100% speed, 100%
compression ratio, and 80% capacity.
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Compressor
Capacity Control
As you recall, the compression
ratio is the discharge pressure
in psia divided by the suction
pressure in psia.
When compression ratio
increases, the discharge
pressure increases for a set
suction pressure and/or the
suction pressure decreases for a
set discharge pressure.
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Compressor Capacity
Control
The only way to operate the compressor at 100%
compression ratio and 80% capacity is to slow
the compressor to a speed between 95% and
100%.
Speed control is needed to hold a constant
compression ratio at different gas flow rates, or
differential pressure control is needed to hold a
constant compression ratio at different speeds
and flows.
At any given operating speed, the compression
ratio depends on the amount of flow through the
compressor.
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Compressor Capacity
Control
Centrifugal compressors are either constant
speed or variable speed.
The figure shows various methods of
adjusting capacity for both types of
compressor.
The capacity of a constant speed compressor
can be adjusted by throttling either the
suction or the discharge. Throttling a valve
creates a pressure drop.
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Compressor Capacity
Control Methods
As seen in the graph, a reduction of
flow causes an increase in the
compression ratio.
To prevent this increase in
compression ratio, the discharge
pressure can be reduced or suction
pressure can be increased to provide
the desired condition using the
throttling valve.
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Compressor Capacity
Control Methods
Compressor capacity control can also be
maintained through recycle. Recycle controls the
capacity by providing enough recycled gas to
achieve 100% of design flow.
For example, if the flow is only 68% of design, the
recycle valve may open to allow the remaining
32% of design flow to recycle from discharge to
the suction side of the compressor.
Note that the driver energy required is 100% of
design, but the gas flow rate is 68%. As a result,
the system efficiency is sufficiently decreased.
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Compressor Capacity
Control Methods
Another method of controlling capacity is
adjusting the inlet guide vanes. Inlet
guide vanes direct gas flow to the first
impeller.
The vanes can be moved manually or
automatically to change gas flow.
Compressor capacity is reduced by
moving the vanes to restrict the flow of
gas into the first stage impeller.
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Compressor Capacity
Control Methods
Control systems provide for either local or remote
starting and stopping, automatically monitored
operation, and automatic malfunction shutdown.
Sequence control uses an automated system to
follow a set of instructions.
Control system elements include sensing devices,
monitoring devices, protection devices,
sequencing devices, regulating devices, and
optimizing devices.
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The diagram on the following page shows a complete fuel gas control
system with the main components highlighted. Each of the highlighted
components and its operation are discussed in the following pages.
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strainer
gas supply pressure switch
stop/speed ratio valve assembly (stop/ratio
valve and gas control valve)
fuel gas pressure transducer
fuel vent solenoid valve
four linear variable differential transformers
(LVDT) position sensors
two electrohydraulic servo valves
three gas pressure gauges
Speedtronic controls
The strainer is discussed first.
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Strainer
The purpose of the strainer is to remove
foreign particles from the fuel gas before it
enters the stop/speed ratio valve assembly.
A blowdown connection on the bottom of the
strainer body is used for periodic cleaning of
the strainer screen.
The next fuel gas control system component
discussed is the supply pressure switch.
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When control oil pressure is low, a spring moves an internal spool to the
"dump" position.
When hydraulic pressure is removed, a closing spring on the stop/speed
ratio valve plug closes the valve.
Fuel gas flow to the gas control valve and gas turbine is stopped.
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