Compressor Start Bleed System Modulation for Turbine Surge Prevention

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current turbine systems face challenges in meeting system requirements due to axial compressor surge conditions at low speeds, leading to mechanical stress, airflow loss, and failure to start, exacerbated by limitations in combustor operability and system design constraints.

Innovation Solution

A compressor start bleed system with a duct configured to route extraction from the compressor section downstream of the turbine section, featuring a control device that actively modulates the start bleed extraction during part-speed operation based on monitored operating parameters to balance system requirements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If start bleed extraction is increased to prevent compressor surge, then compressor operability is improved, but system performance and operable space are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompressor operabilityVSAvoidsystem performance
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from a static on/off control system to a dynamic continuous modulation system. The control device actively modulates the start bleed extraction flow in real-time based on monitored operating parameters, allowing the system to adapt continuously to changing conditions rather than operating in fixed states.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements parameter changes by varying the start bleed extraction flow rate as a continuous variable rather than a fixed value. The control device adjusts the extraction flow parameter dynamically based on operating conditions, enabling precise control over the balance between compressor protection and system performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If start bleed extraction flow is increased to unload the front of the compressor, then surge prevention is improved, but compressor discharge flow to the gas turbine system is decreased

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesurge preventionVSAvoidcompressor discharge flow
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback control by continuously monitoring operating parameters and using this information to adjust the start bleed extraction flow. The control device receives feedback on system performance and compressor conditions, then modulates the extraction flow accordingly to maintain optimal balance between surge prevention and discharge flow requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS9611752B2Compressor start bleed system for a turbine system and method of controlling a compressor start bleed system
Publication Date: 2017.04.04 GE INFRASTRUCTURE TECH LLC
  • US9611752B2 patent drawing
  • US9611752B2 patent drawing
  • US9611752B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A compressor start bleed system for a turbine system includes a compressor section. Also included is a turbine section disposed downstream of the compressor section. Further included is at least one duct fluidly coupled to the compressor section, wherein the at least one duct is configured to route a start bleed extraction from the compressor section to a location downstream of the turbine section. Yet further included is at least one control device of the at least one duct configured to actively modulate the start bleed extraction during a part speed operation of the turbine system.