UT automatic system for GT Residual Life Evaluation

摘要

Gas Turbine (GT) Life Time Extension (LTE) is a topic with highest ranking in terms of market demand. It can be fulfilled only with deep knowledge of the components design, their actual and current condition and the operation dynamics of the engines. For these reasons, the structural integrity assessment of the components plays a key role and it boosts the development of advanced Non-Destructive Test (NDT) techniques, to be applied during overhauls in addition to those typically performed. In this paper, the development and the field experiences of an automated system for ultrasonic in-service inspection of gas turbine rotor discs are presented. The characteristics and performances of the equipment are defined, following the LTE program requirements. They mainly concern the sensitivity in terms of minimum detectable flaw and the discs accessibility constraints, that must be well-matched with service activities.