Turbine Shell Eccentricity Measurement Using Laser Module
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional gas turbines with a double-wall turbine shell pose challenges in measuring the eccentricity of the inner turbine shell relative to the rotor due to restricted spacing, limiting the size of measurement systems that can be used.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a first laser module with a microprocessor, wireless network chip, and inclination sensor, which transmits and receives laser beams to measure distances around the turbine shell, coupled with a base station for wireless communication and data processing to generate an eccentricity plot, allowing for precise alignment within the constrained space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a conventional measurement device is used to measure eccentricity in a double-wall turbine shell, then measurement capability is provided, but the device size exceeds the restricted spacing available in the turbine
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement system is divided into multiple discrete components: a laser module for emitting and receiving laser beams, a bracket for positioning the laser module, and a separate processing system. This segmentation allows each component to be compact while maintaining the overall measurement capability needed for eccentricity measurement in the restricted double-wall turbine shell space.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical measurement devices with an optical measurement system using laser beams. The laser module emits laser beams that reflect off the turbine shell and rotor surfaces, and the optical path length measurements provide eccentricity data without requiring bulky mechanical contact probes or large measurement apparatus, thus fitting within the restricted spacing of the double-wall turbine shell.
2Measurement precision
If the laser module is positioned to measure distances around the turbine shell, then accurate eccentricity data is obtained, but the restricted spacing limits where the module can be installed
Solution Approach 1:
A bracket is introduced as an intermediary component that facilitates the installation of the laser module in the restricted spacing of the double-wall turbine shell. The bracket is configured to position the laser module at the correct location and orientation between the inner and outer turbine shells, making the measurement system installable in spaces that would otherwise be inaccessible to conventional measurement devices.
3Measurement precision
If multiple measurement points are taken around the turbine shell, then complete eccentricity characterization is achieved, but measurement time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The laser module continuously emits laser beams and measures optical path lengths as the turbine rotor rotates, taking measurements at multiple circumferential points in a continuous manner rather than stopping at each point. This continuous measurement approach achieves complete eccentricity characterization while minimizing measurement time, as the system collects data throughout the rotation without interruption.
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 accurate measurement and alignment of the turbine shell relative to the rotor, ensuring operational efficiency and reducing the likelihood of blade wear and uneven airflow, even in double-wall turbine configurations.
Implementation Method 1
a laser sensor, configured to transmit a laser beam toward the turbine shell as the turbine rotor spins at a slow speed and to receive a reflected laser beam from the turbine shell
Implementation Method 2
to receive a reflected laser beam from the turbine shell
Data Source
AI summary
A system for determining eccentricity of a turbine shell and a turbine rotor of a gas turbine includes a laser module with a microprocessor having coupled thereto a wireless network chip, a laser sensor, an inclination sensor, and a power supply. The laser sensor transmits a laser toward the turbine shell as the rotor spins at slow speed and to receive a reflected laser from the turbine shell, thereby defining a path length indicative of a distance between the laser module and the turbine shell for each of a series of points disposed circumferentially around the turbine shell. The system further includes a bracket configured to hold the laser module proximate to a turbine blade; a base station that produces a wireless network near the turbine shell and that receives distance measurements from the laser module for each of the series of points; and a server for processing the distance measurements into an eccentricity plot.