Turbine control device prognostics

Abstract

Providing wear-related prognostics and diagnostics on a turbine engine includes, while operating a turbine control device, tracking a total device travel distance over time by recurrently: selectivelyidentifying actual device movement based on device position data associated with a displacement sensor monitoring the turbine control device; and accumulating an incremental device travel distance corresponding to the identified actual device movement with the total device travel distance.

Description

[0001] Cross References to Related Applications [0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 195,373, filed June 28, 2016, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. technical field [0003] The present description generally relates to wear-related predictions for electrically actuated turbine controls. technical background [0004] Turbine control devices, such as fuel control valves and variable vane actuators, include many components that are subject to wear-out failure modes over time. For example, various seals, bearings, gears, guide rods, and other components can cumulatively sustain small but significant wear damage proportional to the usage of the device as well as process and environmental conditions. Unpredictable wear of these components can be highly damaging. For example, seal wear, a common field problem on turbine fuel control valves, often results in valve leaks and ultimately costly unplanned outages. Additi...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Unpredictable wear of these components can be highly damaging

For example, seal wear (a common field problem on turbine fuel control valves) often results in valve leaks and ultimately costly unplanned outages

Additionally, wear to the gear set or guide can prevent the valve from opening or closing properly as desired, which can lead to unsafe operation

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