Steam turbines power the main and auxiliary machines, running pumps, fans, generators, and more. Following steam turbine operating procedures can ensure the plant operates as expected and doesn’t experience thermal or mechanical stress.
Improper startup of a machine as large and important as a steam turbine can cause severe damage to critical components, such as bearings and seals. Over time, this stress can lead to catastrophic failure, resulting in costly repairs. Following proper procedures encourages safe operation and minimizes the risk of equipment malfunctions and accidents.
Proper steam turbine startup procedures can also help maximize equipment lifespan by reducing thermal and mechanical stress. These processes help preserve the integrity of the turbine and prevent costly repairs and replacements.
Steam turbine startup procedures involve a series of controlled steps designed to safely and efficiently transition a steam turbine from standstill to full operational speed and load. Obviously, with the breadth of style, size, and usage, the actual process will vary both depending on the type of turbine you’re working with and whether the startup is cold, warm, or hot.
Start up checks are vital. These checks typically involve checking lubrication systems, verifying cooling water alignment, and checking steam line drains and vents. You’ll also need to inspect the turbine for visual abnormalities and check that condensate pumps (CPs) and recirculation are in order. Conducting the correct startup checkups can help achieve the goal of systematically introducing steam to the turbine while managing operational parameters.
Here are the typical major steps involved in steam turbine startup:
Once the starting prerequisite steps are complete, operators can begin the startup procedure for the steam turbines. The best standard operating procedure depends on the steam turbine and the unique task requirements. Here are some steps that are typically included in general start-up procedures:
Check the turbine oil sump level and replenish levels if needed.
Start the lube oil pump, check the oil pressure, and set the oil pumps to auto.
Make sure the water tank of the condenser vacuum pump is at a normal level.
Check the condenser condensate level and put the condensate pump on auto.
Start the vacuum pump, hogger, or air ejector.
Throttle open the cooling water valves for the lube oil cooler and vacuum pump cooler.
Drain condensed water from the steam line in the steam drain valve.
Open the main steam inlet valve to the turbine.
Verify gland steam pressure is normal.
. Verify lube oil pressure, steam inlet pressure, gland steam pressure, and condenser vacuum are normal.
Roll the turbine to warm and close the steam line drains.
Check the first- and second-stage steam pressure.
Check the condenser water level and vacuum.
. Bring the turbine to speed.
. Check the vibration and lube oil pressure.
. Check parameters like the condenser level, vacuum, generator frequency, voltage, and speed.
. Transfer control to the remote station and bring the generator online.
Fossil Consulting Services, Inc. provides site-specific steam turbine startup and shutdown training to help operators and supervisors align with OEM guidelines and other approved site procedures. We review your unit’s current practices and tailor the program to your timeline, budget, and liability. Whether your employees are new or highly experienced, our steam turbine training can help students increase their experience and knowledge.
We have decades of combined experience in providing high-quality training, technology, and engineering to district energy, process industries, independent power, and the U.S. Government. Our experts designed our training to help operators safely start and operate steam turbines and develop SOPs for these procedures.
Upon completing this training, your operators will have a better understanding of the various stages of startup and shutdown and the instrumentation, criteria, controls, and parameters associated with each.
FCS is a leading operational training provider for various industries. We provide high-quality training tailored to your company and industry needs at a competitive price. Our staff has years of experience in the field to understand your needs and meet your standards. Contact us today for more information about our steam turbine training courses.