I have calculated Steam Turbine-Generator output and turbine overall (HP/LP) efficiency. Please see the attached PDF of my spreadsheet.
You will note that I have included estimated percentages for mechanical and electrical (generator) losses based on my experience. Although the value of the...
Please note that all drains shown on the piping diagram should be from low points in each pipe segment/run. If not, the drains need to be moved to the low points. The piping diagram already shows a drain from the common line downstream of NRVs with a sealing loop, I don’t think you need to add...
Vacuum breaking is used on large steam turbine-generators to minimize damage to the turbine-generator under certain emergency shutdown conditions. Please see the excerpt below from Westinghouse Steam Information Manual, CT-24035, August 1983, Revision 0.
“Vacuum should be broken immediately...
Keep in mind that the operating temperature of the main steam system may be limited by the “rated” temperature of the steam turbine. Check the turbine’s nameplate for the “rated” temperature. Operating above the “rated” temperature will result in reduced creep life of the turbine.
Best of luck!
A hydraulic oil system for a steam turbine is not a typical industrial application. Steam turbine manufacturers recommend piping (not hoses) up to the valve actuator due to the fire hazard if hydraulic oil sprays onto a hot surface.
Lube oil, used as a hydraulic oil, as well as most synthetic...
In my experience, one of the best plant performance software packages is "PEPSE" by Curtiss-Wright. Please note that the software is expensive (probably, in excess of $20,000) and will require a lot of input data to complete an accurate model of the plant. In addition to the software package...
I am not surprised that your steam turbine operates successfully at the off-design conditions you noted. I would not expect the turbine to trip under these operating conditions.
The main consequence of operating at 18 barg and 320 °C instead of the design conditions of 40 barg and 400 °C is a...
Please note that my approach is based on a GE technical bulletin from the 1960s or 1970s, GET-2685 – Estimating Performance of Automatic-Extraction Turbines. I have adjusted the efficiency based on my observations of changes in turbine efficiency over the years.
Please note that an actual...
I suggest using an overall isentropic efficiency (main steam inlet to exhaust) of 76% rather than individual section efficiencies as you proposed. There are several reasons for this approach.
First, besides the Curtis Control Stage immediately downstream of the main steam inlet, there is a...
I suggest that you consult ASME TDP-1 2013, Prevention of Water Damage to Steam Turbines Used for Electric Power Generation: Fossil-Fueled Plants. This reference is a definitive guide for design and operation of drain systems to prevent turbine water induction.
Please note two drains are...
In my first response I noted that a rapid temperature drop produces thermal shock. Rapid cooling results in high thermal stresses at the surface of the metal bathed by the “cool” steam.
In response to your dilemma:
• I don’t know your plant processes, so I don’t know if there is any way...
The OEM’s concern about a rapid drop in temperature upstream of the TTV may be related to a loss of fire in the boiler and/or a carryover of water with the steam (a water induction). Entry of “cooler” steam into the turbine can result in high stresses due to thermal shock. Carryover of water...
Perhaps, "round" steam surface condensers should be more appropriately called "cylindrical" since the main body of the condenser is cylindrical. I have attached an image of a typical "round" or "cylindrical" condenser. Cylindrical condensers are usually shipped fully assembled, and therefore...
The flanges, shown in the cross-sectional diagram, are for moisture removal from upstream of the last LP stage. I have enclosed a PDF file with the holes highlighted in yellow to show the connection of the chamber above each flange to the chamber above the last stage stationary blades at each...
Further to my earlier reply, you should obtain a copy of ASME Standard TDP-1-2013, Prevention of Water Damage to Steam Turbines Used for Electric Power Generation: Fossil-Fueled Plants. This document is the most comprehensive guide for design, operation, inspection and testing to avoid turbine...
