Steam turbine services

Increased cycling of a steam turbine can create conditions that compromise the dryness of steam, leading to the formation of water droplets. When these water droplets migrate to sections of the turbine where they are not intended to be, like the rotor blades or other components, it can cause premature erosion.  Outage planning tailored to start profiles is crucial. Consult with our team early to develop an outage strategy that addresses these challenges.  

Steam turbines generally have a working life of 30+ years. When your steam turbine components will reach end of life depends on its operational history. Upgrade options like advanced steam path replacements and enhanced shells and casings can extend the turbine's life beyond 30 years. Explore upgrade possibilities for sustained performance.

Common combined cycle steam turbine findings include valve failures, issues related to water induction or foreign object introduction into the steam path, and failures in the lube oil bearing train. Loss of power leading to a loss of lubricating oil can result in unit shutdown. Additionally, steam path blades and seals may fail due to unexpected events or normal wear and tear.

Uncommon failures involve steam leakage through bolted joints, valve couplings, or actuated valves, as well as liberation of rotating parts and cracks in casings. Proper inspections targeting known failure modes are crucial for risk mitigation.

It’s also important to keep an eye out for issues that can happen over time, like indications of cracking and creep. If you see any of those signs, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

Essential emergency spare parts for steam turbines include critical components like bolting hardware and valve internals. While GE Vernova maintains a stock of common components such as front and last stage blades, inventory availability may vary. Planning for known issues and specific plant requirements ensures effective outage management by having the right spare parts on hand when needed.

Addressing steam joint leaks is crucial due to the potential danger posed to personnel, and it requires a system-level strategy. This includes diagnosing the root cause, implementing robust repair solutions like bolting upgrades, steam dams, sealants, or even half-pipe repairs, and consider bolting upgrades. Solutions like half pipe repairs may be needed. Quick and reliable repairs are essential, considering the serious impact of steam leaks into the atmosphere. The expertise lies in systematic diagnosis, mapping of flange surfaces, and utilizing field personnel experienced in these operations. Sharing past mitigation experiences enhances the planning for future events, ensuring a more informed approach to complex situations.