Steam Turbine Start-Up Procedures

Steam Turbine Startup Procedures

Steam turbines are essential in power applications — they power main and auxiliary machines, running pumps, fans, generators, and more. Operators must follow steam turbine operating procedures to ensure the plant operates as expected and doesn’t experience thermal or mechanical stress.

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Steps in a Standard Operating Procedure of a Steam Turbine

Once the starting prerequisite steps are complete, operators can begin the startup procedure for its steam turbines. Very generally, the procedure may include these steps:

Check the turbine oil sump level. Drain any water 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.
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.
Give control to the remote station and place the generator online.

FCS Offers Training for Steam Turbine Operation

FCS has several steam turbine training courses, including startup procedures. Our experts designed our steam turbine startup training to help operators understand how to safely start and operate a steam turbine. We cover topics such as:

Pre-start conditions and parameters
Startup procedures
Shutdown procedures
Post-shutdown conditions

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.

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Learn More About Our Training Programs Today

FCS is a leading operational training provider for the marine industry. We provide high-quality training tailored to your company and industry needs for a competitive value. 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.