Rotary Machine Flow Path Inspection Without Disassembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for inspecting centrifugal compressors require disassembly to check solid matter attachment and deposition in flow paths, leading to increased labor, costs, and reduced operation rates due to the difficulty in determining the optimal timing for cleaning solution injection.
Innovation Solution
A method and rotary machine configuration that allows for the insertion of an observation device through a connection port with a valve system, enabling the inspection of flow paths without disassembly, and the optional injection of a cleaning solution using a shared connection port, allowing for in-service inspection and targeted cleaning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the centrifugal compressor is disassembled to check the flow path for solid matter attachment and deposition, then the inspection accuracy is improved, but the maintenance labor and costs increase, and the operation rate decreases
Solution Approach 1:
A borescope (observation device) is introduced as an intermediary tool to inspect the flow path interior without disassembling the compressor. The borescope transmits images from inside the flow path to the exterior, enabling visual inspection while the compressor remains assembled and operational, thus resolving the contradiction between inspection accuracy and operation rate
Solution Approach 2:
The physical disassembly operation is replaced by an optical inspection system. Instead of mechanically opening the compressor housing to view the flow path, an optical borescope is used to transmit visual information, eliminating the need for disassembly while maintaining inspection capability
2Ease of manufacture
If the cleaning solution is injected into the flow path to remove solid matters, then the cleaning effectiveness is improved, but the timing determination becomes difficult, leading to increased maintenance complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The borescope provides real-time visual feedback of the flow path interior, allowing operators to directly observe solid matter attachment and deposition. This feedback enables determination of the optimal timing for cleaning solution injection, reducing maintenance complexity while ensuring cleaning effectiveness
3Productivity
If the observation device is inserted into the flow path during operation, then the operation rate is improved, but the sealing requirement increases to prevent fluid leakage
Solution Approach 1:
A flexible sealing member (O-ring) is used at the connection port to seal around the borescope insertion rod. This flexible seal allows the borescope to pass through while maintaining sealing performance, enabling inspection during operation without compromising reliability
Data Source
AI summary
A method for inspecting a rotary machine having a fluid flow path includes a step of connecting an observation device to a connection port having an open/close valve that opens/closes a communication hole that communicates with the outside of the rotary machine and the flow path, the main body being connected to the connection port where the open/close valve is closed; a step of opening the open/close valve and inserting an insertion rod protruding from the main body of the observation device into the communication hole; a step of observing the inside of the flow path by an observation optical system provided at a leading end portion of the insertion rod; a step of withdrawing the insertion rod from the communication hole and closing the open/close valve; and a step of detaching the main body of the observation device from the connection port.