Combustor Dynamics Monitoring for Improved Gas Turbine Reliability

Reduce combustor damage risks Be proactive in preventing excess instabilities and combustion induced vibrations

Background, Objectives, and New Learnings This project is a continuation of EPRI R&D that developed a basis for detecting combustion system failures in dry, lowNOx (DLN) gas turbines, based on analysis of dynamic pressure data. This detection analysis approach is a significant advancement over the threshold detection methodologies currently available with existing combustion dynamics monitoring systems (CDMS). This field test effort project continues this work by applying these methods to additional host site gas turbines. It will focus on the refinement of these methods of failure detection for DLN combustion systems while minimizing false alarms alerts due to sensor failures, ambient condition changes, and control system variations. The objectives of this project are to provide host sites with an on-line tool to improve operational flexibility and avoid DLN combustion system failures; to investigate any data anomalies and identify potential or emerging problems over a 24-month period; and to generate guidelines to avoid DLN combustion system failures. The knowledge developed by this project can provide gas turbine operators with information to improve operational

flexibility and avoid further in-service failures. This knowledge will assist in avoiding DLN combustion system failures and reduce operational risks. The results will be incorporated in a series of EPRI design and O&M guidelines that address increased combined-cycle operational flexibility. Benefits Combustor dynamics monitoring provides improved diagnostic capability and risk avoidance. The EPRI diagnostic tool provides advanced warning beyond the conventionally supplied combustor monitoring system. Project Approach and Summary The EPRI diagnostic tool will be installed in the host site's existing combustor monitoring system. The diagnostic data will be monitored over a 24-month period. The plant receives regular status reports and alerts of impending combustor system malfunctions. Deliverables Combustor Diagnostic Monitoring: Installation of diagnostic software and routine review of data are covered. Plant is provided timely alerts of developing faults.

Price of Project Companies that fund any Generation program can use tailored collaboration (TC) funds for up to half of their contribution. The cost to join this EPRI project is $50,000 USD per year for two years. Project Status and Schedule The project currently is ongoing with installations at two Fclass combined-cycle sites. Who Should Join Owner/operators of natural gas-fired combustion turbines, operating in combined cycle or simple cycle configuration equipped with a combustion dynamics monitoring system, could benefit from participation in this project. Contact Information For more information, contact the EPRI Customer Assistance Center at 800.313.3774 (askepri@epri.com). Technical Contact Leonard Angello, 650.855.7939 (langello@epri.com)

Product ID: 1023354

Project ID: 072056

June 2011

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