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Lifetime Assessment of a Low-Pressure Steam Turbine Blade

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Journal of Vibration Engineering & Technologies Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Purpose

This work proposes a multilayer methodology for assessing the lifetime of steam turbine blades based on damage calculation, fracture mechanics considerations, and probabilistic analysis.

Methods

The life consumption of steam turbine components is determined through evaluation of steady-state stresses (thermal and centrifugal) and transient stresses. Transient stress analysis is conducted for cold start, warm start, and hot start scenarios, utilizing startup curves derived from available site information and operation manuals. Temperature and stress distributions are determined, followed by life estimation calculations for Creep life damage and fatigue damage using modified Miner and Palmgren’s rule.

Results

Analysis reveals that maximum damage occurs during cold start due to the generation of maximum transient stresses. Critical crack size and time to failure assuming a notch are calculated through fracture mechanics considerations.

Conclusion

The proposed multilayer methodology offers a comprehensive approach to assessing the lifetime of steam turbine blades, integrating damage calculation, fracture mechanics, and probabilistic analysis. This approach enhances understanding of blade performance under various operating conditions and aids in optimizing maintenance strategies for steam turbine systems.

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Data availability

The data that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.

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Acknowledgements

The authors would like to extend their appreciation to Dr. M. K. Sharma, Technical Director: AEQUITAS VERITAS INDUSTRIAL SERVICES (AVIS) laboratory, for his assistance as well as to Mr. D. C. Nirmal, Senior DGM (STE-BHEL Bhopal), and Mr. Manoj Yadav, Manager (COE-BHEL BHOPAL), who provided invaluable technical advice regarding steam turbines.

Funding

The authors declare the following financial interests/personal relationships which may be considered as potential competing interests: POOJA RANI reports equipment, data, or supplies was provided by AVISLABORATOTY, VADODARA, INDIA.

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  1. Department of Mechanical Engineering, Delhi Technological University, New Delhi, 110042, India

    Pooja Rani & Atul K. Agrawal

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  1. Pooja Rani
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Correspondence to Pooja Rani or Atul K. Agrawal.

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Rani, P., Agrawal, A.K. Lifetime Assessment of a Low-Pressure Steam Turbine Blade. J. Vib. Eng. Technol. (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s42417-024-01412-1

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