Evolution theory

摘要

Technological developments for gas turbines have tended to follow an evolutionary rather than a revolutionary path. Nevertheless, the last 12 months or so have seen the introduction of several interesting innovations. Colin Ashmore reports. AIthough it had no discernable impact on engine technology, the ^acquisition by Siemens of the industrial gas turbines business of Alstom was one of the single most important recent events within the industry. The power sector of the former French flagship engineering group, has officially relaunched its heavyweight industrial GT24 and GT26 gas turbines. These machines now incorporate upgrades which are also available for retrofitting to existing installations using 'B' versions. In addition to modifications to the annular combustor and to the design of blades on the first and second stages of the LP turbine, the upgrades include a new dual-fuel nozzle enabling the machine to switch between gas and distillate without loss of power and which ensures emissions are held below 25vppm.