Fouling of compressor blades is an important mechanism leading to performance deterioration in gas turbines over time. Fouling is caused by the adherence of particles to airfoils and annulus surfaces. Particles that cause fouling are typically smaller than 2 to 10 microns. Smoke, oil mists, carbon, and sea salts are common examples. Fouling can be controlled by appropriate air filtration systems, and can often be reversed to some degree by detergent washing of components. The adherence of particles is impacted by oil or water mists. The result is a build up of material that causes increased surface roughness and to some degree changes the shape of the airfoil (if the material build up forms thicker layers of deposits), with subsequent deterioration in performance. Fouling mechanisms are evaluated based on observed data, and a discussion on fouling susceptibility is provided. A particular emphasis will be on the capabilities of modern air filtration systems.
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March 2012
Research Papers
Fouling Mechanisms in Axial Compressors
Rainer Kurz,
Rainer Kurz
Solar Turbines Incorporated,
San Diego
, CA 92101
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Klaus Brun
Klaus Brun
Southwest Research Institute,
San Antonio
, TX 78238
Search for other works by this author on:
Rainer Kurz
Solar Turbines Incorporated,
San Diego
, CA 92101
Klaus Brun
Southwest Research Institute,
San Antonio
, TX 78238J. Eng. Gas Turbines Power. Mar 2012, 134(3): 032401 (9 pages)
Published Online: January 3, 2012
Article history
Revised:
May 1, 2011
Received:
May 1, 2011
Online:
January 3, 2012
Published:
January 3, 2012
Citation
Kurz, R., and Brun, K. (January 3, 2012). "Fouling Mechanisms in Axial Compressors." ASME. J. Eng. Gas Turbines Power. March 2012; 134(3): 032401. https://doi.org/10.1115/1.4004403
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