Gas Turbine Technology: Design, Operation, Control, Troubleshooting and Maintenance

Introduction

To appreciate how theoretical principles are met through varying design and construction techniques and how these affect operating parameters across differing types of Gas Turbine Engine and how this theory can be applied through practical problem solving to overcome common problems encountered with this type of equipment. To investigate aerodynamic and mechanical design features.

Gas Turbines became widely adopted and many thousands of sets are now installed worldwide. The development of gas turbines from the theoretical stage to its present worldwide adoption has three main inputs. These may include:

• The practical and theoretical work of established steam turbines manufacturers wishing to expand into the gas turbine field.
• Intensive and aerodynamic work on compressors and turbines. By aero-engine manufacturers, arising particularly from the development of aero-engine superchargers
• Metallurgical developments, which provided alloys capable of withstanding the continuous high temperatures and stress to which the turbine blades are subjected.
• To investigate major Gas Turbine Engine systems.
• To undertake fault finding and problem-solving of major Gas Turbine Engine systems.
• To apply knowledge to undertake monitoring, inspection and maintenance methods. To investigate Gas Turbine Engine performance characteristics.

Objectives

By the end of the training, participants will be able to:

• Describe the different stages involved in the operation of a gas turbine cycle
• Operate and maintain the air inlet, the filtration system, the pulse cleaning system and the evaporative cooler
• Demonstrate an understanding of the compressor section to include the rotor, variable guide vanes and compressor blading
• Explain the mechanical and aerodynamic processes of a Gas Turbine Engine with regard to airflow and gas flow passing through an engine. In particular, the relationship between intake, compressor, combustor, and exhaust.
• Understand and fully describe major engine systems such as Fuel; lubrication; airflow control; seals and bearings; cooling air; starting; monitoring and control.
• Conduct problem-solving simulations and perform monitoring, inspection and maintenance tasks.
• Explain engine performance characteristics and be able to fault diagnose performance anomalies
• Explain the construction and operation of the turbine section, including rotor, buckets, nozzles and bearings
• Use the relevant turbine control terms to operate and control protection systems
• Outline the construction and operation of the liquid and gas fuel control systems, gas control valves and the lube oil system, essential to the operation, maintenance and troubleshooting of a gas turbine
• Describe the construction and the theory behind the operation of a generator, including the starting system, the turning gear, the commutated inverter and the cooling methods
• Analyze the guidelines for the efficient operation of the gas turbine system and its components
• Review the elements for the improvement of performance and efficiency of the gas turbine system
• Compare and contrast optimal improvement techniques for a given industrial application
• Estimate the degree of deterioration of the gas turbine system due to corrosion and fouling
• Indicate the ways to remedy for the problems in everyday operations using best practices
• Control and protection system of gas turbines
• Different stages involved in the operation of a gas turbine cycle
• Problems of gas turbines and recommended solutions

Training Methodology

The course will be conducted along with workshop principles with formal lectures and interactive worked examples and with an active contribution by all delegates during workshops and discussions and teamwork. Real-life examples will be selected to illustrate the procedure for control of the good performance of gas turbines. The emphasis will be on the explanation of technical phenomena and providing answers to problems that are encountered in everyday industrial practice. There will be ample opportunities for problem solving and workshops with active open discussion and sharing professional experiences on the operation, maintenance and troubleshooting. All course materials will be provided.

Who Should Attend?

This course is intended for all gas turbine operation personnel and maintenance personnel, including gas turbine operators, gas turbine maintenance technicians, and controls technicians. It will also be beneficial for professionals managing and supervising personnel involved in the operation and maintenance of gas turbines.

Course Outline