A Study on the Life Cycle Impact of Steam Injection

Abstract

Water or steam injection for NOX control or power augmentation can impact turbine hot section component life and maintenance interval. This relates to the effect of added water on hot-gas transport properties. Higher gas conductivity, in particular, increases heat transfer to blade and vane, and can lead to higher metal temperature and reduced part life. Part life impact from steam or water injection is also related to the way engine is controlled. Life cycle impact of steam injection on the LM6000PC HP turbine blade has been studied. The relationship between steam injection, LP turbine inlet temperature control, blade metal temperature, and corresponding life change was analyzed. The analysis result can be used for the assessment of life cycle impact with steam injection and temperature control limit.

Evaluation of water injection effect on compressor and engine performance and operability

“…The users should also consider that with water/steam injection the synthesis of the gas flow is changing. This change will result to higher metal temperature at the turbine blades as discussed by Jin et al [40] and result to life limiting events at the hot section of the engine if the firing temperature remains unchanged. This is not expected to be a problem for constant load operation as the firing temperature is reduced for the same load with water/steam injection.…”