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	SwRI performs condition assessments of hot section components to evaluate the extent of base material and coating degradation and to help clients make run, repair, and replacement decisions.

Several life management and extension (LM&E) studies for hot section components of various turbines are performed at Southwest Research Institute (SwRI). The methodology for LM&E includes:

• Condition Assessment

  • Material and coating degradation

  • Material properties evaluation

  • Nondestructive evaluation

• Stress Analysis

  • Mechanical analysis

  • Aero and thermal stress analysis

  • Vibration analysis and frequency testing

• Life Evaluation

  • Failure modes

  • Life evaluation methodology

Turbine Condition Assessments

SwRI performs condition assessments of hot section components to evaluate the extent of base material and coating degradation and to help clients make run, repair, and replacement decisions.

We have developed algorithms and computerized programs for life prediction, life management, and life extension of gas turbine engines to increase component usage, maximize engine availability, and reduce maintenance costs.

We have has also developed methodologies and software to predict the life of gas turbine hot section blades for GE frame gas turbines. Extensive materials testing of new and service-exposed components was conducted to develop pertinent material properties, which were used in the life assessment algorithm and software, GTD LIFE. Using these data in their turbine fleet life management program, clients can realize economic gains by prudently scheduling the inspection and maintenance intervals while maintaining good availability and reliability of their engines.

SwRI can offer you a full range of capabilities and experience in gas turbine technology including becoming an extension of your engineering department. For more information about our gas turbine life management and extension studies and capabilities, or how you can contract with SwRI, please contact Klaus Brun, Ph.D., at kbrun@swri.org or (210) 522-5449.

gasturbine.swri.org

| Fluids and Machinery Engineering Department | Mechanical Engineering Division | SwRI Home |

Southwest Research Institute^® (SwRI^®), headquartered in San Antonio, Texas, is a multidisciplinary, independent, nonprofit, applied engineering and physical sciences research and development organization with 11 technical divisions.

January 03, 2013