Turbine Generators from another era

Steam turbines have been used for many years as prime movers in Power Plants(Large Turbine Generators, etc.) and also for driving auxiliary equipment such as boiler feed pumps, fans and small generators.

It is not uncommon for steam turbines to be running today that were built over 40 years ago. This is a tribute to the excellent designs and the maintenance programs instituted by the companies using them.

To many companies it makes sense to keep these turbines running because of the effective use of process steam and the emergency back up features offered.

Some companies have their own maintenance staff/machine shop to repair their turbines. Other companies are relying on outside shops to do the work for them when it turns into major work.

It is more of a challenge today since some of the models are older and/or obsolete and some of the original equipment manufacturers have merged or are no longer in existence. This can create a problem in obtaining parts for these turbines in a timely fashion.

The customer wants and needs a reliable source. We have been able to help a number of companies obtain turbine parts and components in a timely fashion and at a reasonable price.

Typical turbine replacement parts

There are times when the operating conditions of the auxiliary equipment change. For instance more horsepower or speed is required. It could be that the steam conditions have changed.

Rather than purchase a new turbine a rerate can sometimes be made of the turbine which is accomplished by modifications to some of the internal parts such as governor valve, nozzle ring, etc.

The needed parts can be supplied and then installed by the maintenance department or by a shop that specializes in rotating equipment.

The savings can be substantial and it can be an easy solution.