COURSE OVERVIEW:

The study of advanced steam turbines involves a deep exploration of the thermodynamic and mechanical principles that drive high-capacity power generation and industrial mechanical drives. This course addresses the intricate design of impulse and reaction blading, focusing on the aerodynamic efficiency and structural integrity required to withstand extreme centrifugal forces and thermal gradients. Understanding the nuances of steam expansion and the transition from thermal energy to rotational kinetic energy is fundamental for optimizing plant heat rates.

The scope of this training extends to the sophisticated auxiliary systems that support turbine operation, including gland sealing, high-pressure lubrication, and hydraulic governing. Participants will examine the metallurgy of turbine rotors and blades, focusing on creep, fatigue, and erosion mechanisms common in high-pressure and high-temperature environments. The

Coverage includes the analysis of multi-stage expansion, extraction points for process steam, and the critical role of condenser performance in maintaining turbine backpressure.

Furthermore, the course addresses modern control strategies and proactive maintenance protocols essential for long-term reliability. It delves into the use of digital electro-hydraulic (DEH) governors for precise speed and load control, as well as the application of vibration monitoring and borescope inspections for condition assessment. By focusing on both the physics of steam and the mechanics of the turbine assembly, this course provides the expertise needed to manage major overhauls and ensure stable plant operations.

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

After completion of this course, the participants will be able to:

1. Analyze the efficiency of Rankine cycles in advanced steam turbine applications.
2. Differentiate between impulse and reaction turbine stages and their pressure profiles.
3. Evaluate the impact of steam quality and superheat on blade erosion and life.
4. Design and optimize gland steam sealing systems to prevent air ingress.
5. Implement sophisticated warming-up and loading sequences to manage thermal stress.
6. Interpret vibration signatures for detecting rotor bow and bearing instability.
7. Assess the performance of surface condensers and vacuum-breaking systems.
8. Troubleshoot faults in digital electro-hydraulic (DEH) governing systems.
9. Calculate the critical speeds and amplification factors for large turbine rotors.
10. Manage the water chemistry requirements to prevent turbine scale and deposition.
11. Execute major turbine overhaul activities, including rotor alignment and leveling.
12. Analyze the root causes of blade failures, including stress corrosion cracking.
13. Optimize extraction steam pressures for industrial cogeneration efficiency.
14. Develop comprehensive risk-based maintenance strategies for turbine island assets.

TARGET AUDIENCE:

This course is intended for power plant engineers, mechanical maintenance supervisors, turbine specialists, and senior operations personnel responsible for high-pressure steam turbine assets.

TRAINING COURSE METHODOLOGY:

A highly interactive combination of lectures, discussion sessions, and case studies will be employed to maximise the transfer of information, knowledge, and experience. The course will be intensive, practical, and highly interactive. The sessions will start by raising the most relevant questions and motivating everybody to find the right answers. The attendants will also be encouraged to raise more of their questions and to share in developing the right answers using their analysis and experience. There will also be some indoor experiential activities to enhance the learning experience. Course material will be provided in PowerPoint, with necessary animations, learning videos, and general discussions.

The course participants shall be evaluated before, during, and at the end of the course.

COURSE CERTIFICATE:

National Consultant Centre for Training LLC (NCC) will issue an Attendance Certificate to all participants completing a minimum of 80% of the total attendance time requirement.