Meanline, Streamline and FEM Analyses for an industrial Gas Turbine unit

The main goal of the project is the creation of a predictive model in steady state operating conditions for an industrial gas turbine used for generator drive applications. Flow path Meanline (1D) and Streamline (2D) analyses are performed using AxSTREAM software, in order to obtain integral turbomachinery information (power, efficiency, mass flow rate) as well as distribution of kinematics and thermodynamics parameters in both streamwise and spanwise directions. The latter represent the set of boundary conditions to implement in a thermo-structural Finite Element Analysis (FEA) useful for rotor components lifetime evaluation. First, an estimate of the flow rates involved, and power generated by the turbine is made. The set of all parameters defined in this preliminary analysis process and data already known are an important input or comparison information in the subsequent AxSTREAM model implemented. AxSTREAM calculation model is defined starting from 3D models elaboration of the turbine components. Meanline and Streamline outputs are presented in tabular and graphical form, leading to a perfect match with target data. The work ends with thermo-structural FEA of the last four compressor rotor components, conducted through Ansys software and followed by creep and Low Cycle Fatigue (LCF) evaluation for component life prediction. The thesis project developed is part of a larger company program called Life Time Extension (LTE), whose main goal is the re-design of rotor parts and definition of an opportune maintenance plan allows to extend the useful life beyond that recommended by the OEM.