Efficiency is the name of the game when it comes to gas turbines; you want to optimise your equipment for maximum output. However, if any part of the system becomes dirty, airflow is reduced and efficiency plummets.
Fortunately, maintaining a clean turbine is not that difficult; you just need to understand the dirt you’re dealing with and get the right equipment in place. So, let’s look at the different parts of a gas turbine and how to keep them spick and span…
Parts of a gas turbine
Let’s recap the basic structure of a gas turbine:
- Compressor, which raises the pressure of a fuel gas/air mix
- Combustion chamber
- Expansion turbine
- Auxiliary elements i.e. rotor, filter, bearings etc.
There is potential for any/all of these parts to become fouled, interrupting airflow and reducing efficiency. Even minor contamination has an impact that should not be underestimated.
How does dirt get into gas turbines?
You may be surprised to learn of all the many ways foulants can enter and adhere to the different parts of a gas turbine. Here are just a few examples:
- Airborne foulants e.g. pollution, pollen, salt entering the gas turbine compressor
- Hydrocarbons: a deposit of liquid/oil which attracts particles
- Lubricants
- Residual cleaning products which have not been properly removed
- Salt water causing rust and corroding the blades
- Internal erosion creating its own loose ‘dust’ which further dirties and damages the gas turbine
Once foulants are present, they immediately start causing problems.
Read all about cleaning gas turbines on our main website: https://www.rochem-fyrewash.com/news/90-how-to-clean-the-different-parts-of-a-gas-turbine/
