How to Deal with Excessive Vibration in Steam Turbines?
4 Answers
Check whether the lubricating oil pressure and temperature are normal, and whether the bearing metal temperature and return oil temperature are normal. If abnormal, adjustments should be made. If the vibration is caused by water hammer, isolate the cold steam and water sources, and strengthen the drainage of the turbine body. If the vibration is caused by the generator, reduce the load for observation and handling.
Last time I encountered a situation with excessive turbine vibration in the factory, the first thing is to stay calm and avoid rushing to start the machine. Start by checking the basics, such as whether the mounting brackets are loose or if the bolts are tightened properly. If these are all okay, then inspect whether the rotating components are balanced. If they're unbalanced, they need to be corrected on a balancing machine. Also, pay attention to the condition of the bearings. If they are severely worn or have cracks, replace them immediately. The lubrication system should also be checked, as insufficient oil or poor oil quality can cause friction and increase vibration. Make it a habit to regularly measure data with vibration instruments; stopping the machine when abnormalities are detected can reduce losses. Safety first—always wear protective gear when operating, and it's best to have an experienced colleague assist to avoid accidents. Don't push through if the root cause of the problem isn't identified; report it to the supervisor promptly to prevent small issues from becoming major problems that affect the entire factory's operation.
As someone frequently involved in mechanical maintenance, my first step in addressing steam turbine vibration is to investigate imbalance issues. Uneven weight distribution in the rotor or impeller is the most common cause, requiring professional equipment for dynamic balancing tests. Next, I check shaft alignment using laser alignment tools to ensure proper levelness—misalignment beyond tolerance requires reinstallation. Bearing faults cannot be overlooked; abnormal noises can be detected by listening or using sensors to measure temperature, with excessive heat indicating the need for maintenance or replacement. Loose components like fastening screws must be tightened one by one—no shortcuts. Resonance is another factor, so operating outside critical speed zones is essential. Throughout the process, I use a recorder for continuous monitoring. If the root cause is identified, I avoid forcing operation and seek support from the original manufacturer or professional repair services to prevent secondary damage. Proper equipment maintenance saves significant repair costs and time.
When using a steam turbine, I once encountered the annoying issue of excessive vibration. The machine was buzzing loudly, so I immediately shut it down for inspection. First, check for any foreign objects stuck externally or loose screws, and try tightening them. If that doesn't work, suspect a bearing failure—if it feels hot to the touch, stop using it immediately. It's advisable to contact a maintenance technician promptly for diagnosis rather than attempting disassembly yourself, as it can be dangerous. During regular operation, ensure proper lubrication and change the oil periodically to prevent dry friction. Before starting, confirm that the balance is correct, and only use it if it runs smoothly. For safety, if the vibration is severe, shut down the machine—health and safety come first.
