Continuous Development - Further Performance Upgrades for ALSTOM’s GT13E2 and GT26 Gas Turbine

摘要

With the GT13E2 gas turbine and the GT26 gas turbine, ALSTOM has successful engines for the 50 Hz market in both the conventional class and the advanced class gas turbine segments, particularly in Asia. Whilst both of these engine platforms have seen significant operating experience since their first launch, they have also been constantly updated to meet the needs of their respective markets. Whereas fleet operating feedback played a significant factor in the early product updates the longterm improvements and upgrades have originated from ALSTOM’s continuous development programmes. Traditionally such development programmes focus on output and efficiency, but factors such as operating flexibility and fuel flexibility also need to be taken into account. The two operating concept choices already available for the GT13E2 is an example of this: the operator can select between maximum power with the standard operating interval of 24’000 equivalent operating h hours (EOH) or at a slightly reduced power level but with a ours maximised operating interval of 36’000 EOH. ALSTOM has recognised that there is also a preference for remaining with proven technology and here the approach is to build on the recognized strengths and advantages of the engine platforms while continuing to improve them to meet today’s high market expectations. In this regard, the next evolutionary steps on both the GT13E2 and the GT26 ratings have already gone into operation – for the GT26 at the ALSTOM Test Power Plant in April 2005 and for the GT13E2 at a field engine in June 2005. These improvements result in a useful but moderate increase to 180 MW and 288 MW from the previous ISO ratings of 172 MW and 281 MW respectively. This paper will provide details on the design enhancements and provide an overview of the advanced features. It will also summarize the process and the results of an extensive validation program both engines underwent in line with ALSTOM's stringent product quality program and highlight the operational experience with these upgrades.