My site has been housing my GE frame 9 gas turbines since April 2007, awaiting installation. Around three months after receiving them, we utilized dehumidifiers for preservation. The original equipment manufacturer (OEM) has recommended a boroscope inspection and opening up the turbine before commissioning in late 2010. While I am in favor of the boroscope inspection, I have reservations about the cost and length of time required for the opening up process before commissioning. Can you offer any advice on how to proceed?
What were the reasons behind the three-year delay in installation, from 2007 to 2010? Understanding the importance of opening up before installation can shed light on why it is a crucial step in the process.
Before commissioning, it may only be necessary to conduct a boroscopic inspection and examine the bearings if the turbines are well maintained. Asking the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) about the necessary inspections for overhauling the turbine is recommended. If boroscopy can suffice, then an overhaul may not be needed.
Thank you for the guidance, Josh. Although there were several factors that led to the extended delay, we are focused on finding a solution moving forward. Your advice is appreciated. - Emeka.
As previously mentioned by Mohammad, GE has not specified exactly what components they intend to inspect prior to commissioning. Is it limited to the turbine casing, compressor casing, CDC, combustion cans, diffuser tunnel, etc? Clearly, there must be specific areas of interest. Certain parts may be challenging to inspect with a boroscope when the unit is closed, but initial assessments can provide valuable insight, especially in assessing corrosion or cleanliness for further inspection upon unit opening. It would also be helpful to know the class of units in question (E, FA/B, H).
The E-class units are prone to extensive corrosion, particularly in the compressor sections. The lack of regular rotor maintenance over the past 3 years increases the risk of rotor bending. Borescope inspections of the compressor, combustor, and turbine sections are recommended to assess the status of the units, especially those linked to dehumidifiers. These inspections will provide valuable insight into the condition of the units and help prevent potential issues.
I completely understand your reservations about the cost and time frame involved in opening up the turbine. It can indeed be quite a significant commitment. Yet, it's generally advised to follow the OEM's recommendations due to their expertise and long-term perspective. Besides, this process often unveils hidden issues that could further delay commissioning if left undiscovered until later stages. Consider it as an investment for smoother operations in the future. That being said, I suggest you negotiate the process with the OEM to understand the absolute necessity of each step involved, which might possibly help in reducing the costs and timeline.
I fully understand your reservations about the timeframe and the costs associated with opening up the turbines. However, considering the length of time the turbines have been in storage and the environmental conditions, adhering to OEM's recommendation might be ideal to ensure reliable performance in the long run. It's worthwhile considering this as an investment that could potentially save you from future maintenance issues. If cost is of significant concern, you could negotiate with the OEM or other independent service providers for a more feasible deal. Additionally, conduct a risk-benefit analysis to understand what you could potentially lose if the turbines malfunction due to skipping the recommended step.
It sounds like you're in a tough spot balancing the need for thoroughness with budget and time constraints. I'd definitely recommend going for the boroscope inspection as it could provide critical insights into the condition of the turbines that might save you from bigger issues down the line. Maybe consider reaching out to multiple service providers for quotes and timelines; sometimes you can find a cost-effective solution that doesn't compromise on quality. Additionally, discussing your concerns directly with the OEM might yield some alternatives or even negotiate the scope of the inspection to minimize downtime and expenditures. It's key to ensure these turbines are in top shape before commissioning, ultimately saving you money and stress in the long run.
✅ Work Order Management
✅ Asset Tracking
✅ Preventive Maintenance
✅ Inspection Report
We have received your information. We will share Schedule Demo details on your Mail Id.
Answer: Answer: A boroscope inspection is recommended to assess the condition of internal components and ensure they are functioning properly before commissioning the gas turbines.
Answer: Answer: Dehumidifiers help prevent corrosion and damage to the gas turbine components by maintaining optimal humidity levels in the storage environment.
Answer: Answer: Opening up the gas turbine before commissioning allows for a thorough inspection of internal components and ensures proper functioning, but the cost and time implications should be carefully considered.
Answer: Answer: It is advisable to consult with maintenance experts and weigh the benefits of thorough inspections against the associated costs and time commitments to make an informed decision on how to proceed.
Join hundreds of satisfied customers who have transformed their maintenance processes.
Sign up today and start optimizing your workflow.