High-vibration diagnosis of gas turbines: An experimental investigation

Abstract

Rotordynamics is a very challenging field because of machine complexities. Many internal and external factors contribute toward change in the structural dynamic characteristics. One of these factors is broad-band high-vibration amplitudes. In this article, a similar high vibration issue on a gas turbine is investigated using bode, orbit, and shaft centerline plots. Data from proximity probes installed on turbine generator system are captured and analyzed against any factor contributing toward high vibration issue. Fish bone diagram was used for root cause investigation. Main components investigated for the root cause of high vibration issue include generator rotor and casing. Rotor behavior has been examined by capturing orbit and shaft centerline diagrams, whereas casing contribution has been investigated by conducting operating deflection shape analysis. A comparison is drawn between a machine suffering from high vibration issue and a normal machine. Resonance was identified as the root cause, and stiffness enhancement was recommended to change the natural frequency of casing. Based on investigations, recommendations are given and a final comparison is drawn after structural modification was done. In addition to early fault finding, reduction in maximum vibration was 38% after implementation of the fix that confirmed the accuracy of the root cause investigation process.