Gas Turbine Pre-Filter Bypass Mechanism for Surge Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gas turbine engine inlet air treatment systems experience reduced efficiency and risk of compressor surge due to high pressure drops across pre-filters, requiring manual shutdown and cleaning, which is time-consuming and disruptive.
Innovation Solution
A filter bypass assembly that automatically moves the pre-filter from an operating position to a bypass position during high pressure drops, allowing continuous engine operation without manual intervention, using hydraulic actuators, differential pressure sensors, and temperature sensors to control the pre-filter's position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the pre-filter is used to remove moisture from intake air, then air quality is improved, but pressure drop increases causing reduced compressor efficiency and potential surge
Solution Approach 1:
The pre-filter is made movable between a first position (filtering mode) and a second position (bypass mode) using a positioning mechanism. This dynamic reconfiguration allows the system to switch between filtering and bypassing based on operational conditions, resolving the contradiction between maintaining air quality and preserving compressor efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the flow path parameter by moving the pre-filter between positions, thereby altering the pressure drop characteristic. When the pre-filter is in the first position, it provides filtration but creates pressure drop; when moved to the second position, it bypasses the filter element, reducing pressure drop while maintaining airflow to the compressor.
2Reliability
If the pre-filter is manually removed for cleaning, then filtration performance is restored, but engine operation must be shutdown for 3-4 days
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning mechanism enables automatic reconfiguration of the pre-filter without requiring manual intervention or engine shutdown. The system can self-adjust by moving the pre-filter to the bypass position when pressure drop becomes excessive, eliminating the need for scheduled maintenance downtime.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable pre-filter design allows the engine to continue operating while maintaining filtration capability. By switching the pre-filter to the bypass position when clogged, the system maintains continuous airflow to the compressor without interruption, eliminating the 3-4 day shutdown requirement.
3Reliability
If the pre-filter is positioned to maximize filtration, then air quality is optimized, but pressure drop causes reduced airflow to compressor
Solution Approach 1:
The pre-filter positioning mechanism allows dynamic adjustment between maximizing filtration (first position) and maximizing airflow (second position). The system can switch positions based on real-time conditions, balancing air quality optimization with sufficient airflow to the compressor.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables continuous operation of the gas turbine engine by bypassing the pre-filter during high pressure drops, reducing the risk of compressor surge and eliminating the need for manual shutdown, thus enhancing efficiency and reducing maintenance costs.
Implementation Method 1
using hydraulic actuators, differential pressure sensors, and temperature sensors to control the pre-filter's position
Data Source
AI summary
A method of assembling an inlet air filter assembly for use with a turbine engine system. The method includes coupling an inlet hood to an air filter enclosure, such that an airflow path is defined between the inlet hood and the air filter enclosure. A pre-filter is coupled to the inlet hood, such that the pre-filter is positioned within the airflow path. A filter bypass assembly is coupled to the pre-filter for moving the pre-filter from an operating position to a bypass position during operation of the turbine engine system.