Steam Turbine Nozzle Assembly Remote Alignment System
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for aligning steam turbine nozzle assembly, casing, and rotor are costly, time-consuming, and labor-intensive, requiring the removal of components for horizontal and vertical alignment.
Innovation Solution
A remote adjustment and measurement system for steam turbine nozzle assembly, featuring a steam turbine casing segment with a horizontal joint surface, a pocket, and a path accessible from the radially outward surface, allowing for the actuation of a support bar and adjustment member to align the diaphragm and casing segments without disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional alignment methods are used, then measurement precision can be achieved, but time consumption and labor costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary measurement system consisting of a theodolite or total station mounted on a tripod, with reflective targets or prisms positioned at specific locations on the nozzle assembly and casing. This intermediary system enables precise alignment measurements without requiring disassembly of the turbine components, thereby maintaining measurement precision while significantly reducing the time and labor required for alignment procedures.
2Manufacturing precision
If conventional alignment methods are used, then alignment accuracy is achieved, but labor intensity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical alignment procedures with an optical measurement system. Instead of requiring manual disassembly, physical adjustment, and mechanical measurement tools, the system uses optical instruments (theodolite/total station) to measure alignment parameters remotely. This substitution maintains alignment accuracy while dramatically simplifying the operation and reducing labor intensity.
3Measurement precision
If components are removed for alignment, then alignment precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-positioning reflective targets or prisms at specific locations on the nozzle assembly and casing before the alignment measurement process begins. These targets are installed in advance during assembly operations, eliminating the need for disassembly during alignment. This preliminary preparation enables precise alignment measurements to be taken with the full assembly in place, reducing system complexity and avoiding the costs associated with component removal and reinstallation.
Data Source
AI summary
A remote adjustment and measurement system for a steam turbine nozzle assembly is disclosed. In one embodiment, a steam turbine casing segment is disclosed including: a horizontal joint surface; a pocket having a first opening at the horizontal joint surface and a second opening substantially opposing the first opening; and a path accessible from a radially outward surface of the steam turbine casing segment, the path fluidly connected to the second opening of the pocket.