Steam turbine blade erosion control device

Abstract

To provide an erosion amount management device of a rotor blade of a steam turbine capable of recognizing, in chronological order, an erosion amount from the past to the present predicted based on operational data and a future erosion amount predicted based on a future operational condition.SOLUTION: An erosion amount management device 18 comprises a display information generation unit 73 that generates display information to display, on a display unit, past erosion amount related information indicating information related to calculated past erosion amount of a rotor blade, and future erosion amount related information indicating information related to the future erosion amount of the rotor blade calculated based on the past erosion amount related information and a future operational condition input on a user interface screen. Each time future operational condition is input, the display information generation unit 73 generates display information to display the past erosion amount related information at the time of input and the future erosion amount related information from the time of input.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to an erosion amount management device for moving blades of a steam turbine.

Background Art

[0002] In a low-pressure turbine stage of a steam turbine, part of the steam may condense into water droplets. These water droplets erode the moving blades by colliding with them. Among the low-pressure turbine stages, the moving blades of the final stage are particularly prone to erosion by water droplets.

[0003] This erosion of the moving blades by water droplets, so-called erosion, is regularly inspected every few years. In this regular inspection, if the erosion amount (erosion quantity) in the erosion exceeds the reference value determined by the manufacturer of the moving blades, replacement of the moving blades is recommended.

[0004] In recent years, in power generation facilities, the introduction of renewable energy has been accelerated as a measure to reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. In power generation using renewable energy, the power generation amount varies depending on weather conditions and the like. Therefore, in recent years, thermal power generation facilities have shifted to operation centered on regulating thermal power in order to supplement the unstable power supply in power generation using renewable energy.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Patent Document 3

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] As mentioned above, thermal power generation facilities equipped with steam turbines are shifting from operation centered on rated load to operation centered on controlled thermal power, which increases the risk of further erosion in the steam turbines.

[0007] Users managing steam turbines in thermal power plants can know the amount of erosion of the rotor blades during periodic inspections. However, with conventional steam turbine management systems, users cannot obtain information predicting the amount of rotor blade erosion from past periodic inspections to the present, or information predicting the future amount of rotor blade erosion based on future operating conditions of the actual machine. Furthermore, with conventional steam turbine management systems, users cannot obtain information such as when the amount of erosion will reach the threshold at which the rotor blades should be replaced in the future.

[0008] The problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a steam turbine blade erosion control device that can recognize, in a time series, the amount of erosion from the past to the present predicted based on operating data, and the amount of future erosion predicted based on future operating conditions. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] The steam turbine blade erosion amount management device of the embodiment includes a display information generation unit that generates display information to display on a display unit, which includes past erosion amount related information showing information about the past erosion amount of the steam turbine blades from the past to the present, calculated based on measured information, and future erosion amount related information showing information about the future erosion amount of the blades in the future, calculated based on future operating conditions entered in operation using a user interface screen and the past erosion amount related information. Furthermore, the future operating conditions include a first operating mode and a second operating mode, which are pre-set for each future year, and the user interface screen allows the user to select either the first operating mode or the second operating mode for each future year, and in each of the first and second operating modes, the daily operating time for each of the multiple divided steam turbine loads and the annual operating rate of the steam turbine are pre-set. The display information generation unit then generates display information that, each time the future operating conditions are input, displays on the display unit the past erosion amount-related information at the time the future operating conditions were input and the future erosion amount-related information from the time the future operating conditions were input. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a steam turbine system equipped with an erosion control device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the erosion amount control device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] This figure shows an example of an input screen for future operating conditions to be displayed on the user interface of the erosion amount management device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] This figure shows an example of an input screen for inputting periodic inspection results related to erosion to the erosion amount management device of the first embodiment. [Figure 5] This is a flowchart illustrating the calculation flow of past erosion amounts in the periodic erosion calculation unit of the erosion amount management device of the first embodiment. [Figure 6] This is a flowchart illustrating the calculation flow of the future erosion amount in the future erosion calculation unit of the erosion amount management device of the first embodiment. [Figure 7] This figure illustrates the method for calculating the recommended replacement timing, recommended preparation timing, and preparation threshold in the future erosion calculation unit of the erosion amount management device of the first embodiment. [Figure 8] This figure illustrates the method for calculating the recommended replacement timing, recommended preparation timing, and preparation threshold in the future erosion calculation unit of the erosion amount management device of the first embodiment. [Figure 9] This figure shows an example of a display screen showing information at the time of introduction of the erosion amount management device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] This is a flowchart illustrating the periodic erosion calculation processing method in the erosion amount control device of the first embodiment. [Figure 11]It is a flowchart for explaining a future erosion calculation processing method in the erosion amount management device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 12] It is a flowchart for explaining a future erosion calculation processing method in the erosion amount management device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 13] It is a flowchart for explaining a future erosion calculation processing method in the erosion amount management device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 14] It is a diagram showing an example of a display screen in the erosion amount management device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 15] It is a diagram showing an example of a selection screen for selecting a comparison operation result to be displayed on the user interface in the erosion amount management device according to the second embodiment.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0012] (First Embodiment) FIG. 1 is a system diagram schematically showing the configuration of a steam turbine facility 1 provided with an erosion amount management device 18 according to the first embodiment. Note that the erosion amount management device 18 functions as an erosion amount management device for the moving blades of a steam turbine.

[0013] As shown in FIG. 1, the steam turbine facility 1 includes a boiler 10, a high-pressure turbine 11, a reheater 12, an intermediate-pressure turbine 13, a low-pressure turbine 14, a generator 15, a condenser 16, a feed water pump 17, and an erosion amount management device 18. Here, the moving blades of the low-pressure turbine 14 function as the moving blades of the steam turbine whose erosion amount is managed by the erosion amount management device 18.

[0014] In the low-pressure turbine 14, erosion by water droplets is more likely to progress in the downstream turbine stages where the steam temperature and steam pressure are low. Therefore, the erosion control device 18 controls the amount of erosion in the final stage blades of the low-pressure turbine 14, for example. In addition to the final stage blades, the erosion control device 18 may also control the amount of erosion in the blades of other turbine stages that are subjected to erosion by water droplets.

[0015] The steam turbine equipment 1 includes an erosion control device 18, a steam temperature detector 30, and an output detector 31 as an erosion control system for calculating and managing the amount of erosion of the rotor blades in the steam turbine.

[0016] The boiler 10 heats the feedwater to generate steam and discharges the steam into the main steam pipe 20. The high-pressure turbine 11 is rotated by the steam introduced from the main steam pipe 20 and discharges the steam into the low-temperature reheat steam pipe 21. The reheater 12 reheats the steam introduced from the low-temperature reheat steam pipe 21 and discharges the steam into the high-temperature reheat steam pipe 22.

[0017] The intermediate-pressure turbine 13 is rotated by steam introduced from the high-temperature reheat steam pipe 22 and discharges the steam into the crossover pipe 23. The low-pressure turbine 14 is rotated by steam introduced from the crossover pipe 23 and discharges the steam into the exhaust pipe 24. The generator 15 generates electricity by being driven by the high-pressure turbine 11, the intermediate-pressure turbine 13, and the low-pressure turbine 14. The generator 15 is, for example, connected on the same shaft as the high-pressure turbine 11, the intermediate-pressure turbine 13, and the low-pressure turbine 14.

[0018] The condenser 16 condenses the steam introduced from the exhaust pipe 24 into condensate. The feedwater pump 17 supplies the condensate from the condenser 16 as feedwater to the boiler 10 via the feedwater pipe 25.

[0019] The erosion control device 18 is a device for calculating and managing the amount of erosion of the rotor blades in a steam turbine. Details of the erosion control device 18 will be described later.

[0020] The steam temperature detector 30 detects the temperature of the steam introduced into the intermediate-pressure turbine 13 and outputs the detection signal to the erosion control device 18. As shown in Figure 1, the steam temperature detector 30 is installed, for example, in the high-temperature reheat steam pipe 22 and detects the temperature at the inlet of the intermediate-pressure turbine 13. The steam temperature detector 30 is composed of, for example, a thermocouple. The inlet of the intermediate-pressure turbine 13 refers to the inlet of the first stage turbine stage.

[0021] The output detector 31 detects the electrical output of the generator 15 and outputs the detection signal to the erosion amount management device 18.

[0022] Next, we will describe the erosion amount control device 18.

[0023] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the erosion amount management device 18 according to the first embodiment. The erosion amount management device 18 is a device that predicts and manages the amount of erosion from the past to the present based on actual machine operation data, and the future amount of erosion based on anticipated future operating conditions. The erosion amount management device 18 also generates display information for displaying prediction results, such as the amount of erosion, on a display unit.

[0024] As shown in Figure 2, the erosion amount management device 18 includes a measurement data acquisition unit 40, a user interface 50, a storage unit 60, and a calculation unit 70.

[0025] The measurement data acquisition unit 40 is an interface that acquires detection signals related to steam temperature output from the steam temperature detector 30 and detection signals related to electrical output output from the output detector 31. The measurement data acquisition unit 40 acquires these detection signals at predetermined time intervals. For example, the measurement data acquisition unit 40 acquires detection signals at 1-hour intervals.

[0026] The measurement data acquisition unit 40 has the function of converting the acquired detection signals related to steam temperature and electrical output into steam temperature information and electrical output information, respectively. The measurement data acquisition unit 40 outputs the converted steam temperature information and electrical output information to the measurement data storage unit 62 of the storage unit 60.

[0027] The user interface 50 includes a display unit that displays various information to the user (administrator) and an input device that allows the user to input various information. The display unit is composed of, for example, a display. The display unit may also be composed of a touch panel that has the function of a display screen and the function of an input device that allows direct input to the screen. The input device is composed of, for example, a keyboard or a mouse.

[0028] The storage unit 60 comprises an input information storage unit 61, a measurement data storage unit 62, a program storage unit 63, a calculation result storage unit 64, a template storage unit 65, and a display information storage unit 66. The storage unit 60 can be implemented, for example, by a hard disk drive, a non-volatile memory device, or the like. The storage unit 60 may not be physically integrated with the erosion amount management device 18 but may be connected via a network (not shown).

[0029] The input information storage unit 61 stores information input via the user interface 50, such as future operating conditions and various setting conditions. The input information storage unit 61 also stores information input from the input device of the manufacturer of the erosion amount management device 18, such as various setting conditions, design information of the rotor blades to be managed, and information on periodic inspection results related to the amount of erosion.

[0030] Here, future operating conditions are used in calculations to predict future erosion amounts. The future operating conditions are those for the steam turbine equipment 1. The future operating conditions include the operating time per day (24 hours) and the annual operating rate for each segmented load. Examples of future operating conditions include a pre-set default operating mode and a customized operating mode in which the user can arbitrarily set the operating time and annual operating rate for each segmented load. Here, segmented loads refer to loads obtained by dividing the load range of the steam turbine (for example, the range from 0% load to 100% load) into predetermined load units (for example, 10% load units). For example, if the load range of a steam turbine from 0% load to 100% load is divided into 10% load units, the segmented loads will be 10% load, 20% load, 30% load, 40% load, 50% load, 60% load, 70% load, 80% load, 90% load, and 100% load.

[0031] Figure 3 shows an example of an input screen 80 for future operating conditions to be displayed on the user interface 50 of the erosion amount management device 18 of the first embodiment.

[0032] In Figure 3, the default operating modes include, for example, the "Same as specific year" mode 82, the "Base load" mode 83, and the "Peak load" mode 84. The "Detailed operation plan setting" mode 85 is set as a customizable operating mode.

[0033] The input screen 80 shown in Figure 3 is an example of a screen selected and entered by the user via the user interface 50. In the selection pattern 81 in the upper part of Figure 3, the user changes the white circles in the column for the operating mode to be selected for each year to black circles. In the input screen 80 shown in Figure 3, the past operating performance mode 82 is selected for 2024, the base load operating mode 83 for 2025 and 2026, the peak load operating mode 84 for 2027 and 2028, and the detailed operation setting mode 85 for 2029-2032.

[0034] Note that while Figure 3 shows a period up to 2032, it is not limited to this period. A further period, such as 2040, could also be set.

[0035] The historical performance mode 82 is a mode in which the system operates using the same operating pattern as the selected year. In historical performance mode 82, the operating mode is set based on the load in 10% load units and the operating time at each load unit, which are calculated from operating data from January to December of the selected year. In addition, in historical performance mode 82, the operating mode is set based on the availability factor of the selected year. Note that in Figure 3, the operating pattern for 2021 is selected.

[0036] Here, the operating rate is the percentage of days in each year that steam turbine equipment 1 is in operation. In other words, the operating rate is the value obtained by dividing the number of days in which steam turbine equipment 1 is in operation in a year by 365 days and expressing it as a percentage.

[0037] Base load operation mode 83 is a mode for operating at high loads, for example, in the range of 70% load to 100% load. In base load operation mode 83, for example, a load segment is set by dividing the 70% load to 100% load into 10% load increments. In addition, in base load operation mode 83, the operating rate is set on an annual basis.

[0038] The base load operation mode 83 is a default value, but it can be set by referring to past operating data of the steam turbine equipment 1, for example. The base load operation mode 83 can be set on a yearly basis, for example.

[0039] Table 1 shows an example of base load operation mode 83.

[0040] [Table 1]

[0041] Table 1 shows an example of how the daily (24-hour) operating time is set for each load category for each year from 2024 to 2032. As shown in Table 1, for example, in base load operation mode 83 for 2024, the settings are 100% load (rated load): 3 hours, 90% load: 10 hours, 80% load: 9 hours, and 70% load: 2 hours. The utilization rate is set to 89%.

[0042] Here, we show an example of base load operation mode 83, where the load range from 100% load to 70% load is divided into 10% load increments, but this setting is not the only option. The load range in base load operation mode 83 may be set wider or narrower than the range in the example above. The load units may also be set wider or narrower than the 10% load units. Furthermore, the number of years set may be less or more than the number of years set in Table 1.

[0043] Peak load operation mode 84 is a mode in which the system operates with load fluctuations within the range from low load to rated load (100% load). In peak load operation mode 84, for example, a load range from 100% load to 20% load is divided into 10% load increments, and a segmented load is set. Peak load operation mode 84 is set on an annual basis. Table 2 shows an example of peak load operation mode 84.

[0044] [Table 2]

[0045] Table 2 shows the daily (24-hour) operating time for each load category for each year from 2024 to 2032. For example, for peak load operation mode 84 in 2024, the settings are as follows: 100% load (rated load): 1 hour, 90% load: 5 hours, 80% load: 2 hours, 70% load: 1 hour, 60% load: 1 hour, 50% load: 1 hour, 40% load: 4 hours, 30% load: 8 hours, and 20% load: 1 hour. The utilization rate is set to 89%.

[0046] Note that while peak load operation mode 84 is the default value, it can be set by referring to past operating data for steam turbine equipment 1, for example. Furthermore, this example shows peak load operation mode 84 divided into load ranges from 100% load to 20% load in 10% load increments, but the setting is not limited to this. The load range in peak load operation mode 84 may be set wider or narrower than the range shown in the example above. The load units may also be set wider or narrower than the 10% load units. The number of years set may also be less or more than the number of years set in Table 2.

[0047] In detailed operation setting mode 85, the operating time per day (24 hours) can be arbitrarily set for each load category shown in the operation data 86 column at the bottom of Figure 3. The utilization rate can also be arbitrarily set. The user enters the operating time for each load category in the year column of detailed operation setting mode 85. In Figure 3, the operating time has been entered in the 2029-2032 column, where detailed operation setting mode 85 is set.

[0048] Furthermore, while this example shows the operation data 86 for detailed operation setting mode 85, with the load range from 100% load to 20% load divided into 10% load units, this setting is not the only option. The load range in detailed operation setting mode 85 may be set wider or narrower than the range shown in the example above. Similarly, the load units may be set wider or narrower than the 10% load units.

[0049] At this point, the user who has entered the future driving conditions described above presses the Save button 87 in Figure 3. The user interface 50 receives the input from the Save button 87 and outputs the information related to the future driving conditions to the input information storage unit 61. The input information storage unit 61 receives and stores the information related to the future driving conditions.

[0050] Furthermore, the input information storage unit 61 stores a correspondence table of steam temperature information at the inlet of the intermediate pressure turbine 13 and electrical output information of the generator 15, which is set based on the heat balance and corresponds to the segmented loads under future operating conditions. As a result, for example, steam temperature information and electrical output information are stored for each segmented load under future operating conditions, so the future erosion calculation unit 72 can calculate the future erosion amount based on this steam temperature information and electrical output information.

[0051] Furthermore, the input information storage unit 61 stores information such as the results of periodic inspections related to the amount of erosion. Here, Figure 4 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen 90 for inputting periodic inspection results related to erosion to the erosion amount management device 18 of the first embodiment. The periodic inspection results are input by, for example, the manufacturer. The input screen 90 shown in Figure 4 is displayed, for example, on the operation screen of the input device at the manufacturer. The information related to the periodic inspection results from the input device at the manufacturer is then output to the input information storage unit 61. The input information storage unit 61 inputs and stores the information related to the periodic inspection results. The input device at the manufacturer is configured to be able to access the erosion amount management device 18.

[0052] The "X1: Theoretical Chord Length" shown on the input screen 90 in Figure 4 is the chord length of a new control surface. The chord length of a new control surface varies depending on the specifications of the surface. Therefore, information regarding the chord length of a new control surface is entered by the manufacturer based on the specifications of the surface and stored in the input information storage unit 61. The input chord length is displayed in the numerical field 91 that shows the value of X1.

[0053] "X2: Inspected Chord Length" is the chord length measured during periodic inspection. "X3: Inspected Notch Depth" is the distance between the most protruding and most recessed parts of the V-shaped irregularities in the erosion area, as shown on input screen 90. "X3: Inspected Notch Depth" is measured during periodic inspection. "Y: Amount of erosion" is the amount of erosion obtained during periodic inspection. "Y: Amount of erosion" is obtained by calculating "X1 - (X2 - X3)".

[0054] Numerical values ​​based on periodic inspection results are entered in the X2 and X3 numerical fields 92 and 93. After entering the values ​​for X2 and X3, the erosion amount is displayed in the Y numerical field 94.

[0055] The manufacturer's input device receives input from the Upload button 95 and outputs information related to the periodic inspection results to the input information storage unit 61. The input information storage unit 61 receives and stores the information related to the periodic inspection results. The manufacturer's input device also receives input from the All Delete button 96 and deletes, for example, the numerical values ​​in the numerical fields 92, 93, and 94 for X2, X3, and Y.

[0056] Here, we have shown an example where the manufacturer inputs the periodic inspection results, but it may also be possible to set it up so that the user can input them. In this case, the input screen 90 shown in Figure 4 will be displayed on the display unit of the user interface 50. When a user inputs the periodic inspection results, the user inputs the periodic inspection results and then presses the Upload button 95. The user interface 50 then receives the input from the Upload button 95 and outputs the information related to the periodic inspection results to the input information storage unit 61. The input information storage unit 61 inputs and stores the information related to the periodic inspection results. The Back button 97 on the input screen 90 is a button to press when returning to the display screen 100, which will be described later, without pressing the Upload button 95.

[0057] Furthermore, the latest periodic inspection results will serve as the initial erosion value when the periodic erosion calculation unit 71 calculates the amount of erosion.

[0058] The input information storage unit 61 stores the replacement threshold, which is the amount of erosion at which a rotor blade should be replaced. Here, it is recommended that rotor blades whose erosion amount has reached the replacement threshold be replaced. The replacement threshold is a default value set based on, for example, the specifications of the rotor blade. Therefore, the replacement threshold is pre-stored in the input information storage unit 61. The manufacturer pre-stores the replacement threshold in the input information storage unit 61.

[0059] The input information storage unit 61 stores the preparation period as an initial value when the erosion amount management device 18 is installed, in order to determine the recommended preparation time described later. The preparation period is the time required to prepare the new rotor blades. The user can change the preparation period from the initial value to a predetermined period by requesting the manufacturer to do so. In this case, information related to the changed preparation period is output from the manufacturer's input device to the input information storage unit 61 of the erosion amount management device 18. The input information storage unit 61 then stores the information related to the changed preparation period.

[0060] The measurement data storage unit 62 stores steam temperature information and electrical output information output from the measurement data acquisition unit 40. For example, the measurement data storage unit 62 stores steam temperature information and electrical output information output from the measurement data acquisition unit 40 every hour.

[0061] The program storage unit 63 stores programs for calculating and managing the amount of erosion in the erosion amount management device 18, as well as various calculation formulas and parameters for calculating the amount of erosion.

[0062] The calculation result storage unit 64 stores the results calculated by the calculation unit 70. The calculation result storage unit 64 stores, for example, information about the amount of erosion from the past to the present, calculated by the periodic erosion calculation unit 71. Here, the calculation result storage unit 64 stores, for example, the calculation results of the amount of erosion from the past to the present, as information about the amount of erosion from the past to the present. This information functions as past erosion amount related information.

[0063] The calculation result storage unit 64 stores, for example, information about the future erosion amount calculated by the future erosion calculation unit 72. The calculation result storage unit 64 stores the recommended replacement time when the future erosion amount calculated by the future erosion calculation unit 72 reaches the replacement threshold. The recommended replacement time is specified by year, month, and day. The method for calculating the recommended replacement time will be described later.

[0064] Here, the recommended preparation period is defined as the period between the recommended replacement period and the predetermined preparation period. The recommended preparation period is the period at which it is recommended to begin preparing a new rotor blade for a rotor blade for which a recommended replacement period has been specified. The recommended preparation period is also specified by year, month, and day, similar to the recommended replacement period. For example, if the recommended replacement period is June 1, 2040, and the preparation period is 3 years, the recommended preparation period would be June 1, 2037. The preparation period is stored in the input information storage unit 61, as mentioned above.

[0065] Furthermore, the calculation result storage unit 64 stores the future erosion amount at the recommended preparation period, calculated by the future erosion calculation unit 72, as the preparation threshold. In other words, the erosion amount at the recommended preparation period is the preparation threshold. The method for calculating the preparation threshold will be described later.

[0066] The calculation result storage unit 64 stores calculation results such as future erosion amounts, preparation thresholds, recommended preparation times, and recommended replacement times as information related to future erosion amounts. This information functions as information related to future erosion amounts.

[0067] The template storage unit 65 stores information related to template screens that serve as the basis for screens displaying calculation results stored in the calculation result storage unit 64. Information related to various template screens to be displayed on the display unit of the user interface 50 is stored in the template storage unit 65 in advance.

[0068] The display information storage unit 66 stores the display information generated by the display information generation unit 73 of the calculation unit 70 for display on the display unit.

[0069] The calculation unit 70 is a calculation block comprising a periodic erosion calculation unit 71, a future erosion calculation unit 72, and a display information generation unit 73. In response to the user's execution start input from the user interface 50, the calculation unit 70 reads a program from the program storage unit 63 to execute the erosion amount management device 18. This enables the execution of the functions of the periodic erosion calculation unit 71, the future erosion calculation unit 72, and the display information generation unit 73, respectively.

[0070] The periodic erosion calculation unit 71 reads calculation formulas and parameters for calculating the amount of erosion from the program storage unit 63, and is a calculation block that calculates the amount of erosion at a fixed period based on the steam temperature information and electrical output information stored in the measurement data storage unit 62. The periodic erosion calculation unit 71 outputs information related to the calculated amount of erosion to the calculation result storage unit 64.

[0071] Here, a fixed period refers to a period from a predetermined date in the past to the present, for example, a 1-hour period. The fixed-period erosion calculation unit 71 uses the amount of erosion measured during a periodic inspection on a predetermined date in the past as an initial value, and calculates the amount of erosion at fixed intervals (for example, every hour) based on steam temperature information and electrical output information. The current amount of erosion is then calculated by adding the amount of erosion that has progressed from the predetermined date in the past to the present to the amount of erosion measured during a periodic inspection on a predetermined date in the past. Note that the amount of erosion that has progressed from the predetermined date in the past to the present, calculated by the fixed-period erosion calculation unit 71, is a predicted value.

[0072] Furthermore, the periodic erosion calculation unit 71 determines whether the calculated erosion amount has reached the replacement threshold based on the replacement threshold stored in the input information storage unit 61. The periodic erosion calculation unit 71 also determines whether the calculated erosion amount has reached the preparation threshold based on the preparation threshold stored in the input information storage unit 61. The operation of this determination in the periodic erosion calculation unit 71 will be described later.

[0073] The future erosion calculation unit 72 is a calculation block that reads calculation formulas and parameters for calculating the amount of erosion from the program storage unit 63 and calculates the future amount of erosion based on the future operating conditions stored in the input information storage unit 61. The future erosion calculation unit 72 outputs information related to the calculated amount of erosion to the calculation result storage unit 64.

[0074] Here, "future" refers to the period from the present to a future year set as the future operating conditions. The future erosion calculation unit 72 uses the current erosion amount calculated by the fixed-period erosion calculation unit 71 as an initial value and calculates the future erosion amount at predetermined intervals (for example, every year) based on the future operating conditions stored in the input information storage unit 61. Note that the future erosion amount calculated by the future erosion calculation unit 72 is a predicted value.

[0075] Furthermore, the future erosion calculation unit 72 determines whether the future erosion amount has reached the replacement threshold based on the replacement threshold stored in the input information storage unit 61 and the calculated future erosion amount. If the future erosion calculation unit 72 determines that the future erosion amount has reached the replacement threshold, it calculates the recommended replacement time when the future erosion amount will reach the replacement threshold.

[0076] Furthermore, if the future erosion calculation unit 72 determines that the future erosion amount will reach the replacement threshold, it calculates the recommended preparation time and the preparation threshold based on the preparation period described above.

[0077] For the sake of explanation, the amount of erosion calculated by the periodic erosion calculation unit 71 from the past to the present will be referred to as the past erosion amount, and the amount of erosion calculated by the future erosion calculation unit 72 from the present to a predetermined future date will be referred to as the future erosion amount.

[0078] The display information generation unit 73 is a calculation block that generates display information to be displayed on the display unit of the user interface 50. The display information generation unit 73 generates display information based on the information stored in the calculation result storage unit 64 and the template storage unit 65. Alternatively, the display information generation unit 73 may directly input the calculation results of the fixed-period erosion calculation unit 71 and the future erosion calculation unit 72, and generate display information based on the information stored in the template storage unit 65.

[0079] The display information generation unit 73 outputs the generated display information to the display information storage unit 66. The display information generation unit 73 also outputs the generated display information to the user interface 50.

[0080] Here, the erosion amount management device 18 described above can be composed of a computer device equipped with an arithmetic unit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a storage device such as ROM (Read Only Memory) or RAM (Random Access Memory), an external storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or CD (Compact Disc) drive, a display device such as a display, and an input device such as a keyboard or mouse.

[0081] (Calculations in the fixed-period erosion calculation unit 71 and the future erosion calculation unit 72) Here, we will explain the calculation flow in the periodic erosion calculation unit 71 and the future erosion calculation unit 72.

[0082] Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating the calculation flow of past erosion amounts in the periodic erosion calculation unit 71 of the erosion amount management device 18 of the first embodiment. Figure 6 is a flowchart illustrating the calculation flow of future erosion amounts in the future erosion calculation unit 72 of the erosion amount management device 18 of the first embodiment.

[0083] First, with reference to Figure 5, the calculation flow of past erosion amounts in the periodic erosion calculation unit 71 will be explained.

[0084] As shown in Figure 5, the periodic erosion calculation unit 71 reads the steam temperature at the turbine inlet and the electrical output of the generator 15 from the measurement data storage unit 62 (step S1). Here, the steam temperature at the turbine inlet and the electrical output of the generator 15 function as measured information for calculating the past erosion amount. Here, for example, the temperature of the steam introduced into the intermediate pressure turbine 13 is used as the steam temperature at the turbine inlet. When executing step S1, the periodic erosion calculation unit 71 reads a program for performing the calculation of the past erosion amount from the program storage unit 63, calculation formulas and parameters for calculating the past erosion amount, and design information of the rotor blades to be managed from the input information storage unit 61.

[0085] Then, the periodic erosion calculation unit 71 calculates the steam flow rate, moisture content, pressure, and flow velocity at the inlet of the final stage rotor blade of the low-pressure turbine 14 based on the steam temperature information and electrical output information (step S2). Alternatively, a fluid analysis or one-dimensional steam calculation program may be stored in the periodic erosion calculation unit 71, and the periodic erosion calculation unit 71 may read the steam temperature information and electrical output information to calculate the flow rate, moisture content, pressure, and flow velocity at the inlet of the final stage rotor blade.

[0086] Next, the periodic erosion calculation unit 71 calculates the amount of water (number of water droplets), water droplet diameter, and water droplet collision velocity in the steam at the inlet of the final stage rotor blade based on the flow rate, moisture level, pressure, and flow velocity at the inlet of the final stage rotor blade (step S3).

[0087] The periodic erosion calculation unit 71 calculates the water volume based on the flow rate and wetness. The periodic erosion calculation unit 71 calculates the water droplet diameter D using the following equation (1) with respect to pressure ρ, flow velocity W, and Weber number Weσ. D = Weσ / (ρW) 2 ) …Formula (1)

[0088] The Weber number Weσ is a dimensionless number that represents the ratio of the inertial force of vapor to the surface tension of a water droplet. The droplet diameter D decreases as the pressure ρ increases.

[0089] The periodic erosion calculation unit 71 calculates the collision velocity of a water droplet by calculating the trajectory of the water droplet from the flow velocity W and the water droplet diameter D. The larger the water droplet diameter, the less the water droplet is accelerated by the steam, and the greater the velocity difference between the steam and the water droplet. Therefore, the collision velocity of the water droplet with the rotor blade increases. Alternatively, the periodic erosion calculation unit 71 may store a water droplet trajectory analysis program and calculate the collision velocity of the water droplet.

[0090] Next, the constant-period erosion calculation unit 71 calculates the erosion rate of the final stage rotor blade (step S5). Here, the amount of erosion E during the stable period when the erosion rate is constant is given by the following equation (2) as a characteristic that changes linearly with respect to time t. E = a + bt …Equation (2)

[0091] Here, a is a material property. By differentiating equation (2) with respect to time, the erosion rate dE / dt, which is the amount of erosion E per unit time, is given by the following equation (3). dE / dt = b …Equation (3)

[0092] Here, b is typically a function of the water droplet collision velocity V, droplet diameter D, water volume (number of droplets N), and material properties, and is expressed by the following equation (4). b = C1 × V p1 ×D q1 ×N…Formula (4)

[0093] Here, C1, p1, and q1 are material constants.

[0094] The material properties and correction coefficients of the final stage rotor blade are pre-stored in the input information storage unit 61. When calculating the erosion rate using equation (3), the periodic erosion calculation unit 71 reads the material properties and correction coefficients from the input information storage unit 61 and uses them to calculate the erosion rate (step S4). The correction coefficients are the slope and intercept applied to the entire equation (2), and are used to fine-tune the graph shape determined by equation (2).

[0095] Next, the periodic erosion calculation unit 71 calculates the amount of erosion ΔE over a certain time range Δt using the following equation (5) (step S6). ΔE = dE / dt × Δt …Equation (5)

[0096] Thus, the erosion amount E is calculated based on the erosion rate dE / dt. Specifically, the fixed-period erosion calculation unit 71 calculates the erosion amount E by integrating ΔE, calculated using equation (5), over the operating time of the steam turbine plant (from a predetermined date in the past to the present).

[0097] Here, the periodic erosion calculation unit 71 calculates the past erosion amount by adding the erosion amount measured during periodic inspections on predetermined past dates to the erosion amount E calculated by the above calculation. This provides the past erosion amount of the final stage, which reflects the operation of the low-pressure turbine 14.

[0098] The periodic erosion calculation unit 71 outputs the calculation result to the calculation result storage unit 64. The calculation of past erosion amount in the periodic erosion calculation unit 71 described above is performed, for example, every hour. The most recently calculated past erosion amount corresponds to the current erosion amount.

[0099] Next, with reference to Figure 6, the calculation flow of the future erosion amount in the future erosion calculation unit 72 will be explained.

[0100] In the calculation flow of the future erosion calculation unit 72, except for steps S10 and S11 shown in Figure 6, it is basically the same as the calculation flow of the fixed-period erosion calculation unit 71. That is, the processing of steps S12-S16 in the calculation of the future erosion calculation unit 72 is basically the same as the processing of steps S2-S6 in the calculation of the fixed-period erosion calculation unit 71. Therefore, here we will mainly explain the processing of steps S10 and S11 in the calculation of the future erosion calculation unit 72.

[0101] As shown in Figure 6, the future erosion calculation unit 72 reads future operating conditions from the input information storage unit 61 (step S10). When executing step S10, the future erosion calculation unit 72 reads a program for calculating the future erosion amount, calculation formulas and parameters for calculating the future erosion amount from the program storage unit 63, and design information of the rotor blade to be managed from the input information storage unit 61.

[0102] Next, the future erosion calculation unit 72 reads from the input information storage unit 61 the steam temperature information at the inlet of the intermediate pressure turbine 13 and the electrical output information of the generator 15, which have been set in advance to correspond to the sectional load based on future operating conditions (step S11). In this calculation, the steam temperature information and electrical output information read from the input information storage unit 61 are handled in the same way as the turbine inlet steam temperature information and electrical output information of the generator 15 read from the measurement data storage unit 62 in the calculation of the fixed-period erosion calculation unit 71 described above.

[0103] Then, the future erosion calculation unit 72 calculates the steam flow rate, moisture level, pressure, and velocity at the inlet of the final stage blades of the low-pressure turbine 14 based on steam temperature information and electrical output information, similar to the calculations performed by the fixed-period erosion calculation unit 71 (step S12).

[0104] The future erosion calculation unit 72 calculates the erosion amount E by performing the processes from step S12 to step S15. Here, in step S16, the future erosion calculation unit 72 calculates the erosion amount E by accumulating ΔE calculated using equation (5) over the operating time of the steam turbine plant (from the present to a predetermined future date).

[0105] The future erosion calculation unit 72 calculates the future erosion amount at a predetermined future date by adding the most recent past erosion amount calculated by the fixed-period erosion calculation unit 71 to the calculated erosion amount E that will progress from the present to a predetermined future date. This provides the future erosion amount of the final stage that reflects the future operation of the low-pressure turbine 14.

[0106] The future erosion calculation unit 72 outputs the calculation result to the calculation result storage unit 64. The calculation result of the future erosion amount in the future erosion calculation unit 72 is obtained at one-year cycles set as future operating conditions. In other words, the calculation result in the future erosion calculation unit 72 is obtained on an annual basis.

[0107] (Calculation of recommended replacement timing, recommended preparation timing, and preparation threshold) Here, we will explain how to calculate the recommended replacement timing, recommended preparation timing, and preparation threshold. Figures 7 and 8 are diagrams illustrating how to calculate the recommended replacement timing, recommended preparation timing, and preparation threshold in the future erosion calculation unit 72 of the erosion amount management device 18 of the first embodiment. In Figures 7 and 8, the horizontal axis represents time (years), and the vertical axis represents the erosion amount ratio. Here, the assumed month and day in the year on the horizontal axis is January 1st.

[0108] Here, the amount of erosion is expressed as an erosion ratio. The erosion ratio is the ratio of erosion amounts when the erosion amount at the exchange threshold is set to 1. When the erosion ratio is less than 1.0, the amount of erosion is below the exchange threshold. When the erosion ratio is greater than 1.0, the amount of erosion exceeds the exchange threshold.

[0109] First, referring to Figure 7, we will explain the case where the preparation threshold is reached in the future.

[0110] As shown in Figure 7, the erosion ratio in 2032 is less than 1, and the erosion ratio in 2033 is greater than 1.0. Therefore, the erosion ratio reaches 1.0 between 2032 and 2033. In other words, the recommended replacement period is between 2032 and 2033.

[0111] The future erosion calculation unit 72 expresses the relationship between time and the erosion ratio as a linear function between 2032 and 2033. The future erosion calculation unit 72 then calculates the month and day when the erosion ratio becomes 1.0.

[0112] In the example shown in Figure 7, the erosion ratio in 2032 is 0.95, and the erosion ratio in 2033 is 1.05. The future erosion calculation unit 72 calculates the recommended replacement date when the erosion ratio becomes 1.0 based on a linear function. In the example shown in Figure 7, the calculation results in July 1, 2032 being the recommended replacement date.

[0113] Next, the future erosion calculation unit 72 calculates the recommended preparation period based on the recommended replacement period and the preparation period. If the preparation period is set to 3 years, the recommended preparation period will be July 1, 2029, which is 3 years before the recommended replacement period.

[0114] Next, the future erosion calculation unit 72 expresses the relationship between time and the erosion rate ratio as a linear function between 2029 and 2030. Then, the future erosion calculation unit 72 calculates the erosion rate ratio on July 1, 2029. In the example shown in Figure 7, the calculation result shows that the erosion rate ratio on July 1, 2029 is 0.75. From this result, the preparation threshold, which is the erosion rate ratio at the recommended preparation period, is 0.75.

[0115] The future erosion calculation unit 72 then outputs the calculation results for the recommended replacement time, recommended preparation time, and preparation threshold to the calculation result storage unit 64. The calculation result storage unit 64 receives and stores the calculation results for the recommended replacement time, recommended preparation time, and preparation threshold.

[0116] Next, referring to Figure 8, we will explain the case where the preparation threshold is reached in the past.

[0117] As shown in Figure 8, the erosion rate ratio will reach 1.0 between 2032 and 2033. In other words, the recommended replacement period lies between 2032 and 2033. Therefore, the recommended preparation period is in the past, rather than the present (2031).

[0118] As shown in Figure 8, and similarly as explained with reference to Figure 7, the future erosion calculation unit 72 calculates the date between 2032 and 2033 when the erosion ratio becomes 1.0 by expressing the relationship between time and the erosion ratio as a linear function.

[0119] In the example shown in Figure 8, the erosion rate in 2032 is 0.95, and the erosion rate in 2033 is 1.05. In the example shown in Figure 8, the calculation results indicate that July 1, 2032 is the recommended replacement date.

[0120] Next, the future erosion calculation unit 72 calculates the recommended preparation period based on the recommended replacement period and the preparation period. If the preparation period is set to 3 years, the recommended preparation period will be July 1, 2029, which is 3 years before the recommended replacement period.

[0121] Next, the future erosion calculation unit 72 reads the amount of erosion on July 1, 2029 from the calculation result storage unit 64 and calculates the erosion amount ratio. This calculated erosion amount ratio is the preparation threshold.

[0122] Here, the erosion amount on July 1, 2029, is the result calculated by the periodic erosion calculation unit 71. Therefore, the calculation result storage unit 64 stores multiple data points at one-hour intervals as the calculation results for that day. Thus, as the erosion amount on July 1, 2029, the future erosion calculation unit 72 refers to, for example, the largest erosion amount among the data for the erosion amount on July 1, 2029.

[0123] The future erosion calculation unit 72 then outputs the calculation results for the recommended replacement time, recommended preparation time, and preparation threshold to the calculation result storage unit 64. The calculation result storage unit 64 receives and stores the calculation results for the recommended replacement time, recommended preparation time, and preparation threshold.

[0124] In this case, if the calculation of future erosion rate results in the erosion rate ratio not reaching 1.0 during the future calculation specified period, the recommended replacement time, recommended preparation time, and preparation threshold cannot be obtained.

[0125] (Regarding the erosion amount management device 18 at the time of installation) First, let's describe the state of the erosion amount management device 18 at the time of installation.

[0126] When the erosion amount management device 18 is installed, the display information storage unit 66 stores display information regarding past and future erosion amounts as of the installation date. In other words, at the time of installation, the erosion amount management device 18 is in a state where it can display past and future erosion amounts as of the installation date on the display unit of the user interface 50.

[0127] In other words, the display information storage unit 66 stores the display information generated by the display information generation unit 73 as of the introduction date, based on the calculation results calculated by the periodic erosion calculation unit 71 and the future erosion calculation unit 72 stored in the calculation result storage unit 64, and the information relating to the template screen stored in the template storage unit 65.

[0128] Furthermore, the manufacturer processes the erosion amount control device 18 so that it is in the state described above at the time of installation.

[0129] Here, Figure 9 shows an example of a display screen 100 showing display information at the time of introduction of the erosion amount management device 18 of the first embodiment.

[0130] As shown in Figure 9, the display screen 100 shows the results of past erosion calculated by the periodic erosion calculation unit 71 (dashed line) and the results of future erosion calculated by the future erosion calculation unit 72 (solid line) in a time series. In graph 101, which shows these erosion result values, the horizontal axis shows the date and the vertical axis shows the erosion ratio. Here, January 1, 2024 is considered the present. In graph 101, the erosion amount is shown as an erosion ratio. The erosion ratio is as described above.

[0131] Figure 9 shows a timeline from January 1, 2014 to January 1, 2034. The range of this timeline is set by selecting a setting value in the timeline setting unit 102 of the display screen 100. Here, an example is shown where the setting value for the timeline setting unit 102 is set to 5 years, 10 years, 15 years, and 20 years. Note that in Figure 9, 10 years is selected.

[0132] The time axis shows the past (a set number of years) from the present and the future (a set number of years) from the present. For example, as shown in Figure 9, if 10 years is selected as the set value, the time axis will display a time range of 10 years from the present (January 1, 2024) to January 1, 2014, and a time range of 10 years from the present (January 1, 2024) to January 1, 2034.

[0133] In this way, the user can arbitrarily change the range of the time axis by selecting a setting value in the time axis setting unit 102.

[0134] In Figure 9, the erosion amount is shown as the calculation result from January 1, 2016 to January 1, 2032. In this case, the erosion amount ratio from January 1, 2016 to January 1, 2024 is the erosion amount ratio based on past erosion amount, and the erosion amount ratio from January 1, 2024 to January 1, 2032 is the erosion amount ratio based on future erosion amount.

[0135] Here, the erosion rate as of January 1, 2016, is shown based on the periodic inspection results entered from the input screen 90 shown in Figure 4. In graph 101 on the display screen 100, the erosion rate based on those periodic inspection results is indicated by a black circle. Note that, for example, even if there are calculation results prior to the latest periodic inspection, the display screen 100 will show the calculation results from the latest periodic inspection onward, and calculation results prior to the latest periodic inspection will not be displayed.

[0136] Furthermore, on display screen 100, the exchange threshold is shown as "Threshold 2" with a dashed line, and the preparation threshold is shown as "Threshold 1" with a double dashed line. Note that in graph 101, the erosion amount of the exchange threshold is shown as an erosion amount ratio of 1. Also, the preparation threshold shown in graph 101 is shown as an erosion amount ratio when the erosion amount of the exchange threshold is set to 1.

[0137] The display screen 100 shows an alarm display 103. The alarm display 103 is displayed when the future erosion amount or past erosion amount exceeds the replacement threshold.

[0138] Furthermore, since the replacement threshold is a default value stored in the input information storage unit 61 as an initial value, "Threshold 2" is always displayed on the display screen 100. Also, if the future erosion amount does not reach the replacement threshold, the preparation threshold, recommended replacement time, and recommended preparation time are not calculated. Therefore, the alarm display 103 is not displayed on the display screen 100.

[0139] Alarm display 103 indicates the recommended replacement period and the recommended preparation period. Figure 9 shows an example of alarm display 103 that shows the number of days from the present to the recommended replacement period and the number of days from the present to the recommended preparation period. Alarm display 103 includes at least the recommended replacement period and the recommended preparation period. The replacement threshold, preparation threshold, recommended replacement period, and recommended preparation period are as described above.

[0140] As shown in Figure 9, the display screen 100 of the user interface 50 displays the changes in past and future erosion amounts over time on a single graph 101. In addition, if the future erosion amount exceeds the replacement threshold, the preparation threshold, recommended replacement time, and recommended preparation time are displayed on the display screen 100.

[0141] (Periodic erosion calculation processing) Next, the periodic erosion calculation process in the erosion amount management device 18 of the first embodiment will be described.

[0142] Figure 10 is a flowchart illustrating the periodic erosion calculation processing method in the erosion amount management device 18 of the first embodiment.

[0143] As shown in Figure 10, the periodic erosion calculation unit 71 determines whether the steam turbine equipment 1 is operating or not based on information stored in the measurement data storage unit 62, for example (step S20). The periodic erosion calculation unit 71 determines whether the steam turbine equipment 1 is operating or not based on steam temperature information and electrical output information, for example.

[0144] If, in the determination in step S20, it is determined that the steam turbine equipment 1 is not operating (No. in step S20), the fixed-period erosion calculation process is terminated.

[0145] In the determination in step S20, if it is determined that the steam turbine equipment 1 is operating (Yes in step S20), the periodic erosion calculation unit 71 reads from the program storage unit 63 a program for calculating past erosion amounts, calculation formulas and parameters for calculating past erosion amounts, design information of the rotor blades to be managed from the input information storage unit 61, and the steam temperature at the turbine inlet and the electrical output of the generator 15 stored in the measurement data storage unit 62 (step S21).

[0146] Next, the periodic erosion calculation unit 71 calculates the past erosion amount using the calculation method described with reference to Figure 5, and outputs the calculation result to the calculation result storage unit 64 (step S22). The calculation result storage unit 64 stores the calculation result.

[0147] The display information generation unit 73 generates display information based on the calculation results stored in the calculation result storage unit 64 and the information stored in the template storage unit 65 (step S23). The display information generation unit 73 then outputs the generated display information to the display information storage unit 66 and the user interface 50. The display information storage unit 66 stores the display information.

[0148] The user interface 50 displays the display information output from the display information generation unit 73 on the display unit as shown in Figure 9 (step S24).

[0149] Here, the display information generation unit 73 outputs display information based on the calculation results to the display information storage unit 66 and the user interface 50 every hour. Therefore, the graph 101 showing the calculation results regarding past erosion amounts displayed on the display unit is updated every hour. The periodic erosion calculation unit 71, for example, repeats the process of steps S20-S24 every hour after calculating the past erosion amount.

[0150] Furthermore, after processing in step S22, the periodic erosion calculation unit 71 refers to the calculation result storage unit 64 to determine whether or not the preparation threshold has been stored (step S25).

[0151] Here, for example, in the calculation of the future erosion amount at the time of introduction of the erosion amount management device 18, if the future erosion amount reaches the replacement threshold within the future calculation specified period, the preparation threshold is stored in the calculation result storage unit 64. Also, in the calculation of the future erosion amount after the introduction of the erosion amount management device 18, if the future erosion amount reaches the replacement threshold within the future calculation specified period, the preparation threshold is stored in the calculation result storage unit 64.

[0152] On the other hand, in the calculation of future erosion amounts at the time of introduction of the erosion amount management device 18, if the future erosion amount does not reach the replacement threshold within the future calculation specified period, the preparation threshold is not stored in the calculation result storage unit 64. Also, in the calculation of future erosion amounts after the introduction of the erosion amount management device 18, if the future erosion amount does not reach the replacement threshold within the future calculation specified period, the preparation threshold is not stored in the calculation result storage unit 64.

[0153] If the determination in step S25 determines that the preparation threshold is not stored (No. in step S25), the periodic erosion calculation unit 71 executes the process in step S25 again.

[0154] In the determination in step S25, if it is determined that the preparation threshold is stored (Yes in step S25), the periodic erosion calculation unit 71 determines, based on the calculation result in step S22, whether or not the past erosion amount has reached the preparation threshold (step S26).

[0155] In the determination in step S26, if it is determined that the past erosion amount has not reached the preparation threshold (No. in step S26), the periodic erosion calculation unit 71 executes the process in step S25 again.

[0156] In the determination in step S26, if it is determined that the past erosion amount has reached the preparation threshold (Yes in step S26), the periodic erosion calculation unit 71 determines whether or not the past erosion amount has reached the replacement threshold based on the calculation result in step S22 (step S27).

[0157] Here, the statement that the past erosion amount reaches the preparation threshold indicates that the past erosion amount has reached the preparation threshold based on the future prediction calculated by the future erosion calculation unit 72.

[0158] In the determination in step S27, if it is determined that the past erosion amount has not reached the replacement threshold (No. in step S27), the periodic erosion calculation unit 71 outputs information regarding the date on which the past erosion amount reached the preparation threshold (information regarding the recommended preparation period) to the calculation result storage unit 64. The calculation result storage unit 64 stores this information.

[0159] The display information generation unit 73 generates display information based on the calculation results stored in the calculation result storage unit 64 and the information stored in the template storage unit 65 (step S28). The display information generation unit 73 then outputs the generated display information to the display information storage unit 66 and the user interface 50. The display information storage unit 66 stores the display information.

[0160] The user interface 50 updates the display screen based on the display information output from the display information generation unit 73 (step S29). This update updates the information regarding the recommended preparation time in the alarm display 103 shown in Figure 9.

[0161] In the determination in step S27, if it is determined that the past erosion amount has reached the replacement threshold (Yes in step S27), the periodic erosion calculation unit 71 outputs information regarding the date on which the past erosion amount reached the replacement threshold (information regarding the recommended replacement time) to the calculation result storage unit 64. The calculation result storage unit 64 stores this information.

[0162] The display information generation unit 73 generates display information based on the calculation results stored in the calculation result storage unit 64 and the information stored in the template storage unit 65 (step S30). The display information generation unit 73 then outputs the generated display information to the display information storage unit 66 and the user interface 50. The display information storage unit 66 stores the display information.

[0163] The user interface 50 updates the display screen based on the display information output from the display information generation unit 73 (step S31). This update updates the replacement recommendation time information in the alarm display 103 shown in Figure 9.

[0164] Here, the calculation of past erosion amounts in the periodic erosion calculation unit 71 is performed, for example, every hour. Therefore, the information regarding past erosion amounts on the display screen 100 is updated every hour. Note that, if the time range on the horizontal axis is the same, the information regarding past erosion amounts in the graph 101 of Figure 9 increases as time progresses.

[0165] The periodic erosion calculation process described above updates the information regarding past erosion amounts on the display screen 100 shown in Figure 9. Furthermore, if the past erosion amount reaches the preparation threshold, or if the past erosion amount reaches the replacement threshold, the information on the alarm display 103 is updated.

[0166] (Future erosion calculation processing) Next, the future erosion calculation process in the erosion amount management device 18 of the first embodiment will be described.

[0167] Figure 11 is a flowchart illustrating the future erosion calculation processing method in the erosion amount management device 18 of the first embodiment.

[0168] Here, at the time of installation of the erosion control device 18, the future operating conditions shown in Figure 3 are initially set. After installation, the user inputs the future operating conditions on a yearly basis from the input screen 80 shown in Figure 3 on the user interface 50.

[0169] For example, by pressing the selection button 105 on the selection display unit 104 in the display screen 100 shown in Figure 9, the selection items for the input screen 80 of future operating conditions will be displayed on the selection display unit 104, although this is not shown. When a selection item for the input screen 80 is selected on the selection display unit 104, the display screen of the user interface 50 switches to the input screen 80 of future operating conditions shown in Figure 3. At this time, the display information generation unit 73 receives information related to the selection of the input screen 80 from the user interface 50 and outputs display information to display the input screen 80 on the user interface 50.

[0170] The user then enters the future driving conditions and presses the Save button 87 in Figure 3. The user interface 50 receives the input from the Save button 87 and outputs the information related to the future driving conditions to the input information storage unit 61. The input information storage unit 61 stores the information related to the future driving conditions. The Back button 88 on the input screen 80 is pressed to return to the display screen 100 without pressing the Save button 87.

[0171] Furthermore, the future erosion calculation unit 72 receives information from the user interface 50 when the Save button 87 is pressed and determines that future operating conditions have been entered.

[0172] As shown in Figure 11, the future erosion calculation unit 72 determines whether or not future operating conditions have been input (step S40).

[0173] If the determination in step S40 determines that no future operating conditions have been entered (No. in step S40), the future erosion calculation unit 72 executes the process of step S40 again.

[0174] In the determination in step S40, if it is determined that future operating conditions have been input (Yes in step S40), the future erosion calculation unit 72 reads from the program storage unit 63 a program for performing calculations of the future erosion amount, calculation formulas and parameters for calculating the future erosion amount, the design information of the rotor blade to be managed from the input information storage unit 61, and the future operating conditions stored in the input information storage unit 61 (step S41).

[0175] Next, the future erosion calculation unit 72 refers to future operating conditions and determines whether or not there is a detailed operating mode setting (step S42).

[0176] If the determination in step S42 is made to determine that there is a detailed operating mode setting (Yes in step S42), the operating time and utilization rate for each load category under future operating conditions are read out (step S43).

[0177] Next, the future erosion calculation unit 72 calculates the future erosion amount using the calculation method described with reference to Figure 6, and outputs the calculation result to the calculation result storage unit 64 (step S44). The calculation result storage unit 64 stores the calculation result.

[0178] The display information generation unit 73 generates display information based on the calculation results stored in the calculation result storage unit 64 and the information stored in the template storage unit 65 (step S45). The display information generation unit 73 then outputs the generated display information to the display information storage unit 66 and the user interface 50. The display information storage unit 66 stores the display information.

[0179] The user interface 50 displays the display information output from the display information generation unit 73 on the display unit as shown in Figure 9 (step S46).

[0180] Here, the display information generation unit 73 outputs display information based on the calculation result to the display information storage unit 66 and the user interface 50 each time the calculation process for the future erosion amount is performed in the future erosion calculation unit 72. Therefore, the graph 101 showing the calculation result for the future erosion amount displayed on the display unit is updated each time the calculation process for the future erosion amount is performed in the future erosion calculation unit 72. In other words, the graph 101 showing the calculation result for the future erosion amount is updated each time information is received regarding the pressing of the Save button 87 on the input screen 80 for future operating conditions.

[0181] Furthermore, after processing in step S44, the future erosion calculation unit 72 determines whether the future erosion amount has reached the replacement threshold based on the calculation result of step S44 (step S47).

[0182] In the determination in step S47, if it is determined that the future erosion amount has not reached the replacement threshold (No. in step S47), the future erosion calculation unit 72 outputs information regarding the recommended replacement time to the calculation result storage unit 64. That is, the future erosion calculation unit 72 outputs information that there is no recommended replacement time to the calculation result storage unit 64. Here, if a predetermined recommended replacement time is stored in the calculation result storage unit 64, the calculation result storage unit 64 updates the information regarding the recommended replacement time with the newly entered information that there is no recommended replacement time and stores it.

[0183] The display information generation unit 73 generates display information based on the calculation results stored in the calculation result storage unit 64 and the information stored in the template storage unit 65 (step S48). The display information generation unit 73 generates display information from which the alarm display 103 has been removed from the display screen 100 shown in Figure 9. The display information generation unit 73 also generates display information from which the line indicating the preparation threshold (the dashed line in Figure 9) has been removed from the graph 101 of the display screen 100 shown in Figure 9.

[0184] The display information generation unit 73 then outputs the generated display information to the display information storage unit 66 and the user interface 50. The display information storage unit 66 stores the display information.

[0185] The user interface 50 updates the display screen based on the display information output from the display information generation unit 73 (step S49). This update removes the alarm display 103 from the display screen 100. Furthermore, the line indicating the preparation threshold (the dashed line in Figure 9) is removed from the graph 101.

[0186] In the determination in step S47, if it is determined that the future erosion amount has reached the replacement threshold (Yes in step S47), the future erosion calculation unit 72 calculates the recommended replacement time and recommended preparation time using the method described with reference to Figures 7 and 8, and outputs the calculation results to the calculation result storage unit 64 (step S50). The calculation result storage unit 64 stores the recommended replacement time and recommended preparation time.

[0187] Next, the future erosion calculation unit 72 calculates the preparation threshold using the method described with reference to Figures 7 and 8, and outputs the preparation threshold to the calculation result storage unit 64 (step S51). The calculation result storage unit 64 stores the preparation threshold.

[0188] The display information generation unit 73 generates display information based on the calculation results stored in the calculation result storage unit 64 and the information stored in the template storage unit 65 (step S52). The display information generation unit 73 generates display information for updating the alarm display 103 and displaying the preparation threshold line (the dashed line in Figure 9) on the display screen 100 shown in Figure 9.

[0189] The display information generation unit 73 then outputs the generated display information to the display information storage unit 66 and the user interface 50. The display information storage unit 66 stores the display information.

[0190] The user interface 50 updates the display screen based on the display information output from the display information generation unit 73 (step S53). This update causes the display screen 100 to display an alarm display 103, which includes the recommended replacement time and recommended preparation time based on the current calculation results. Furthermore, the graph 101 displays a line (the dashed line in Figure 9) indicating the preparation threshold based on the current calculation results.

[0191] The calculation results of the future erosion amount in the future erosion calculation unit 72 described above are obtained at one-year cycles set as future operating conditions. In other words, the calculation results in the future erosion calculation unit 72 are obtained on an annual basis.

[0192] In the future erosion calculation process, steps S41-S53 are repeated each time information is received regarding the pressing of the Save button 87 on the future operating conditions input screen 80. The information regarding the future erosion amount on the display screen 100 is updated each time information is received regarding the pressing of the Save button 87 on the future operating conditions input screen 80.

[0193] The future erosion calculation process described above updates the information regarding the future erosion amount on the display screen 100 shown in Figure 9. Depending on future operating conditions, for example, the information regarding the future erosion amount shown in Graph 101 will change. In addition, the recommended replacement time, recommended preparation time, and preparation threshold will also change depending on future operating conditions.

[0194] According to the erosion amount management device 18 of the first embodiment described above, the display unit of the user interface 50 can display the past erosion amount from the past to the present, predicted based on actual machine operation data, and the future erosion amount, predicted based on anticipated future operating conditions, in a time-series graph 101. This allows the user to visually confirm the changes in the erosion amount over time.

[0195] Furthermore, the erosion control device 18 can display replacement threshold and preparation threshold lines on the graph 101 of the display screen 100. This allows the user to visually confirm the recommended replacement time and the recommended preparation time.

[0196] Furthermore, the erosion control device 18 can display the recommended replacement period and recommended preparation period as alarm displays 103 on the display screen 100. This allows the user to specifically recognize the recommended replacement period and recommended preparation period. By specifically recognizing the recommended preparation period, the user can accurately request the manufacture of replacement rotor blades.

[0197] The erosion amount management device 18 can display the calculation result of the future erosion amount based on the operating conditions entered on the future operating conditions input screen 80. Therefore, by changing the operating conditions on the future operating conditions input screen 80, the user can visually confirm the difference in the future erosion amount due to the operating conditions on the graph 101 of the display screen 100. In addition, the user can visually confirm the difference in the recommended replacement time and recommended preparation time due to the future operating conditions on the alarm display 103 of the display screen 100.

[0198] (Second Embodiment) In the second embodiment, another example of information regarding the future erosion amount displayed on the display unit of the user interface 50 will be described.

[0199] Figures 12 and 13 are flowcharts illustrating the future erosion calculation processing method in the erosion amount management device 18 of the second embodiment. Due to the layout of the drawings, it is not possible to show the flowchart in a single figure; therefore, the flowchart following the number in step S40 of Figure 12 is shown in Figure 13. Figure 14 is a diagram showing an example of the display screen 100A in the erosion amount management device 18 of the second embodiment. In the second embodiment, the same reference numerals are used for components that are the same as those in the erosion amount management device 18 of the first embodiment, and redundant explanations are omitted or simplified.

[0200] In the second embodiment, the display screen 100A showing the calculation results of the erosion amount can simultaneously display calculation results for other future operating conditions, which is different from the erosion amount management device 18 in the first embodiment. This section will mainly describe this different configuration. Note that the periodic erosion calculation process in the second embodiment is the same as the periodic erosion calculation process in the first embodiment.

[0201] In the future erosion calculation process in the second embodiment shown in Figures 12 and 13, the processes from step S60 to step S65 are added to the future erosion calculation process in the first embodiment.

[0202] Here, the user enters the future operating conditions and then presses the Save button 87 in Figure 3. In the future erosion calculation process in the second embodiment, similar to the future erosion calculation process in the first embodiment, the user interface 50 receives input from the Save button 87 and outputs information related to the future operating conditions to the input information storage unit 61. The input information storage unit 61 stores the information related to the future operating conditions.

[0203] Furthermore, the future erosion calculation unit 72 receives information from the user interface 50 when the Save button 87 is pressed and determines that future operating conditions have been entered.

[0204] As shown in Figure 12, the future erosion calculation unit 72 determines whether or not future operating conditions have been input (step S40).

[0205] If, in the determination in step S40, it is determined that future driving conditions have been input (Yes in step S40), then, as described above, the processes from steps S41 to S46 are executed. Then, as described above, after the process in step S46, the process in step S40 is executed.

[0206] On the other hand, if the determination in step S40 determines that no future operating conditions have been input (No. in step S40), the display information generation unit 73 determines whether there is a request to display the result of calculations performed with other future operating conditions (comparison calculation result), as shown in Figure 13 (step S60). The comparison calculation result is a calculation result that has already been predicted based on other future operating conditions and is stored in the calculation result storage unit 64. Note that the other future operating conditions function as second future operating conditions, and the comparison calculation result functions as second future erosion amount related information.

[0207] Here, Figure 15 shows an example of a selection screen 110 for selecting the comparison calculation result to be displayed on the user interface 50 of the erosion amount management device 18 of the second embodiment.

[0208] For example, by pressing the selection button 105 on the selection display unit 104 in the display screen 100 shown in Figure 9, the selection items for the selection screen 110 are displayed on the selection display unit 104, although this is not shown. When a selection item for the selection screen 110 is selected on the selection display unit 104, the display screen of the user interface 50 switches to the selection screen 110 shown in Figure 15. At this time, the display information generation unit 73 receives information related to the selection of the selection screen 110 from the user interface 50 and outputs display information to display the selection screen 110 on the user interface 50.

[0209] In the selection screen 110 of Figure 15, a list of already calculated calculation results stored in the calculation result storage unit 64 is displayed in the list display unit 111. This also shows an example of the list display unit 111 that displays the date and time stored in the calculation result storage unit 64. For example, the list display unit 111 displays the filenames of the five calculation results in chronological order, from newest to oldest, based on the date and time stored in the calculation result storage unit 64. However, the configuration displayed in the list display unit 111 is not limited to this. The list display unit 111 only needs to display a list of already calculated calculation results.

[0210] Here, Figure 15 shows an example of a comparison calculation result calculated based on future operating conditions within the past hour. When these comparison calculation results are displayed on graph 101 of display screen 100A, the comparison calculation results can be compared without updating the latest future erosion amount. That is, regardless of which of these comparison calculation results is displayed on graph 101, the starting point of the line showing the future erosion amount ratio in the comparison calculation result coincides with the starting point of the line showing the latest future erosion amount ratio, as shown in Figure 15.

[0211] Furthermore, the comparison calculation results may be those calculated more than one hour ago. For example, if a comparison calculation result calculated several days ago is selected, the starting point of the line showing the future erosion ratio in the comparison calculation result will be shifted from the starting point of the line showing the most recent future erosion ratio. Even when the starting points are shifted in this way, the trend of change in the future erosion ratio can still be compared.

[0212] The user selects the file name of the calculation result they want to display on the display screen 100 shown in Figure 9 from the list displayed on the list display unit 111. Then, the user presses the Load button 112. When the user presses the Load button 112, the screen switches to the display screen 100A showing the calculation result as shown in Figure 14.

[0213] The Back button 114 is used to return to the display screen 100 without pressing the Load button 112 or the Reset button 113.

[0214] The display information generation unit 73 receives a signal from the user interface 50 based on the pressing of the Load button 112, and determines in step S60 that there is a request to display the comparison calculation result.

[0215] In the determination in step S60, if it is determined that there is a request to display the comparison calculation result (Yes in step S60), the display information generation unit 73 generates display information based on the calculation result stored in the calculation result storage unit 64 and the information stored in the template storage unit 65 (step S61). Here, the display information generation unit 73 reads both the calculation result based on future operating conditions and the selected comparison calculation result stored in the calculation result storage unit 64. Then, the display information generation unit 73 outputs the generated display information to the display information storage unit 66 and the user interface 50. The display information storage unit 66 stores the display information.

[0216] The user interface 50 displays the display information output from the display information generation unit 73 on the display unit as shown in Figure 14 (step S62). As shown in Figure 14, the display screen 100A displays both the calculation result based on future operating conditions and the comparison calculation result as the future erosion amount.

[0217] Specifically, the erosion rate ratio for each calculation result is shown in time series as the future erosion amount, and the preparation threshold line for each calculation result is also shown. The erosion rate ratio for the comparison calculation result is shown by a dashed line, and the preparation threshold line for the comparison calculation result is shown by a dotted line (the dotted line with narrower spacing). In addition, the recommended replacement time and recommended preparation time for each calculation result are displayed as alarm display 103. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 14, the erosion rate ratio for past erosion amounts is also shown in time series.

[0218] Furthermore, the preparation threshold in the comparison calculation results functions as a second preparation threshold, the recommended replacement timing in the comparison calculation results functions as a second recommended replacement timing, and the recommended preparation timing in the comparison calculation results functions as a second recommended preparation timing.

[0219] If, in the determination in step S60, it is determined that there is no request to display the comparison calculation result (No. in step S60), the display information generation unit 73 determines whether or not there is a request to delete the display of the comparison calculation result (step S63).

[0220] Here, the user can delete the comparison calculation result shown on the display screen 100A in Figure 14 by pressing the Reset button 113 on the selection screen 110 in Figure 15. The display information generation unit 73 receives a signal from the user interface 50 based on the pressing of the Reset button 113 and determines in step S63 that there is a request to delete the display of the comparison calculation result. When the user presses the Reset button 113, the screen switches to a display screen showing the calculation result.

[0221] In the determination in step S63, if it is determined that there is a request to delete the display of the comparison calculation result (Yes in step S63), the display information generation unit 73 generates display information based on the calculation result stored in the calculation result storage unit 64 and the information stored in the template storage unit 65 (step S64). Here, the display information generation unit 73 reads the calculation result based on future operating conditions stored in the calculation result storage unit 64. Then, the display information generation unit 73 outputs the generated display information to the display information storage unit 66 and the user interface 50. The display information storage unit 66 stores the display information.

[0222] The user interface 50 displays the display information output from the display information generation unit 73 on the display unit as shown in Figure 9 (step S65). That is, as shown in Figure 9, the comparison calculation results are removed from the display screen 100, and only the calculation results based on future operating conditions are displayed.

[0223] If, in the determination in step S63, it is determined that there is no request to delete the display of the comparison calculation result (No. in step S63), the process returns to step S40.

[0224] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 12, after processing in step S44, the future erosion calculation unit 72 determines whether the erosion amount has reached the replacement threshold based on the calculation result of step S44, as described above (step S47). Then, as described above, the processing from step S47 to step S53 is executed.

[0225] The information regarding future erosion amounts on the display screen 100A is updated each time information is received from pressing the Save button 87 on the future operating conditions input screen 80, and the Load button 112 or Reset button 113 on the comparison calculation result selection screen 110.

[0226] Note that while this example shows one calculation result being selected as the result of a comparison operation, it may be possible to configure the system to allow the selection of multiple comparison results.

[0227] According to the erosion amount control device 18 of the second embodiment described above, the same effects and benefits as those of the erosion amount control device 18 of the first embodiment can be obtained.

[0228] Furthermore, according to the erosion amount management device 18 of the second embodiment, the display screen 100A can display both the calculation result predicted based on future operating conditions and the comparison calculation result as the future erosion amount.

[0229] This allows the user to visually confirm the difference between the erosion amount in the calculation result based on future operating conditions and the erosion amount in the comparison calculation result on graph 101 of display screen 100A. In addition, the user can visually confirm the difference between the recommended replacement time and recommended preparation time in the calculation result based on future operating conditions and the recommended replacement time and recommended preparation time in the comparison calculation result on alarm display 103 of display screen 100A.

[0230] According to the embodiments described above, it becomes possible to recognize the amount of erosion from the past to the present, predicted based on operating data, and the amount of future erosion, predicted based on future operating conditions, in a time series.

[0231] While several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be carried out in a variety of other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims of the invention and its equivalents. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0232] 1...Steam turbine equipment, 10...Boiler, 11...High-pressure turbine, 12...Reheater, 13...Intermediate-pressure turbine, 14...Low-pressure turbine, 15...Generator, 16...Condenser, 17...Feedwater pump, 18...Erosion amount control device, 20...Main steam pipe, 21...Low-temperature reheat steam pipe, 22...High-temperature reheat steam pipe, 23...Crossover pipe, 24...Exhaust pipe, 25...Feedwater pipe, 30...Steam temperature detector, 31...Output detector, 40...Measurement data acquisition unit, 50...User interface, 60...Storage unit, 61...Input information storage unit, 62...Measurement data storage unit, 63...Program storage unit, 64...Calculation result storage unit, 65...Template storage unit, 66...Display information storage unit, 70...Calculation unit, 71...Fixed-period erosion calculation unit 72...Future Erosion Calculation Unit, 73...Display Information Generation Unit, 80, 90...Input Screen, 81...Selection Pattern, 82...Past Operation Performance Mode, 83...Base Load Operation Mode, 84...Peak Load Operation Mode, 85...Detailed Operation Setting Mode, 86...Operation Data, 87...Save Button, 91, 92, 93, 94...Numerical Field, 95...Upload Button, 96...Delete Button, 97, 114...Back Button, 100, 100A...Display Screen, 101...Graph, 102...Time Axis Setting Unit, 103...Alarm Display, 104...Selection Display Unit, 105...Selection Button, 110...Selection Screen, 111...List Display Unit, 112...Load Button, 113...Reset Button.

Claims

1. The system includes a display information generation unit that generates display information to display on the display unit, which includes past erosion amount related information showing information about the past erosion amount of the steam turbine blades from the past to the present, calculated based on measured information, and future erosion amount related information showing information about the future erosion amount of the blades, calculated based on future operating conditions entered in operations using the user interface screen and the past erosion amount related information. The aforementioned future operating conditions include a first operating mode and a second operating mode, which are predetermined for each year in the future. The user interface screen is provided so that either the first operating mode or the second operating mode can be selected for each future year. In each of the first and second operating modes, the daily operating time for each of the multiple divided steam turbine loads, and the annual operating rate of the steam turbine are predetermined. The display information generation unit, each time the future operating conditions are input, The past erosion amount-related information at the time the aforementioned future operating conditions were input, The information related to the future erosion amount from the time the aforementioned future operating conditions were input and A steam turbine blade erosion amount management device characterized by generating the display information to be displayed on the display unit.

2. The aforementioned display information generation unit, The steam turbine blade erosion amount management device according to claim 1, characterized in that it generates display information that displays both the past erosion amount information and the future erosion amount information in a time series on the display unit.

3. The aforementioned display information generation unit, The steam turbine blade erosion amount management device according to claim 1, characterized in that it generates display information to display the past erosion amount related information on the display unit at predetermined intervals.

4. The aforementioned display information generation unit, The steam turbine blade erosion amount management device according to claim 1, characterized in that it generates display information to display on the display unit information relating to a preparation threshold that indicates the amount of erosion at which it is recommended to start preparing a new blade, calculated based on the aforementioned future erosion amount.

5. The aforementioned display information generation unit, The steam turbine blade erosion amount management device according to claim 1, characterized in that it generates display information to display on the display unit a recommended preparation time, calculated based on the aforementioned future erosion amount, at which it is recommended to begin preparing a new blade.

6. The aforementioned display information generation unit, The steam turbine blade erosion amount management device according to claim 1, characterized in that it generates display information to display on the display unit a recommended replacement time for which it is recommended to replace the blade, calculated based on the aforementioned future erosion amount.

7. The aforementioned display information generation unit, The steam turbine blade erosion amount management device according to claim 1, characterized in that it generates display information which further displays on the display unit second future erosion amount related information that shows information regarding the second future erosion amount of the blade in the future, calculated based on the second future operating conditions and the past erosion amount related information input in the operation using the user interface screen.

8. The aforementioned display information generation unit, The steam turbine blade erosion amount management device according to claim 7, characterized in that it generates display information to display on the display unit information relating to a second preparation threshold, which indicates the amount of erosion calculated based on the second future erosion amount at which it is recommended to start preparing a new blade.

9. The aforementioned display information generation unit, The steam turbine blade erosion amount management device according to claim 7, characterized in that it generates display information to display on the display unit a second recommended preparation time, calculated based on the second future erosion amount, at which it is recommended to begin preparing a new blade.

10. The aforementioned display information generation unit, The steam turbine blade erosion amount management device according to claim 7, characterized in that it generates display information to display on the display unit a second recommended replacement time, calculated based on the second future erosion amount, at which it is recommended to replace the blade.

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