How to clean the different parts of a gas turbine
06.18.23
Efficiency is the name of the game when it comes to gas turbines; you want to optimize 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 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
- Saltwater causing rust and corroding the blades
- Internal erosion creates its own loose ‘dust’ which further dirties and damages the gas turbine
Once foulants are present, they immediately start .
What will happen if I ignore contaminants?
Some level of is inevitable but that doesn’t mean you can ignore it. Leaving contaminants to build up within a gas turbine has many effects, some more drastic than others:
- Any contamination will interrupt airflow through the system.
- One knock-on effect is incomplete fuel combustion leading to dirtier exhaust fumes which are terrible for the environment (and your CO2 emissions targets).
- Another knock-on effect is the necessity to burn more gas… and we all know how expensive gas is. Nobody wants to waste this precious resource, let alone eat into their profit in the process.
- As the fouled system becomes dirtier and dirtier, delicate turbine compressor blades and other inner workings become damaged and corroded.
- Eventually, parts of the turbine will cease working altogether and you will face unscheduled shutdowns and costly repairs/replacements.
How do I clean each part of the turbine?
Fortunately, most foulants can be removed from a gas turbine, and extending the life of the whole system.
Cleaning chemicals
Correct cleaning chemical selection allows the user to target specific foulants and/or remain mindful of environmental considerations. E.g. The includes products that are designed for heavy fouling in industrial areas and others that are specifically biodegradable and perfect for offshore use.
Offline washing
When the gas turbine is shut down, the compressor can be cleaned with detergent and deionized water by injecting the cleaning solution into the compressor.
Online washing
It is also possible (and sensible) to carry out regular online washing of the gas turbine compressor. This process is carried out during normal operation by injecting atomized cleaning solution followed by rinsing.
Hand cleaning
FYREWASH® wipes can be manually used on smaller parts of the compressor during an offline wash.
Where do I start?
The task of introducing or improving cleaning measures can seem daunting, but we’re here to help. At Rochem, we have been in the business for over 40 years. We help customers understand the kinds of contaminants they’re facing and the level of fouling already present. By doing this we can suggest what equipment and specialist cleaning chemicals are best for them.
Our equipment and cleaning chemicals are ideal for both .
We can help in the selection, installation, and staff training, ensuring every customer is competent and confident as they reap the rewards of effective, cost-efficient cleaning products.
So, where do you start? Just give us a call!
Get in touch
Our knowledgeable and professional team are here to answer all your questions and discuss how we can help at your gas turbine site.
If you want to tackle contaminants, boost efficiency, and protect your profits, please .