What are the prerequisites for turbine run-up?
2 Answers
Before turbine run-up, the following main conditions must be met: Warm-up piping: Proper warm-up of pipes, normal steam pressure for run-up, and appropriate steam temperature (lower steam temperature requirements may apply when cylinder temperature is low). Vacuum: Establish a certain vacuum (for condenser-type units). Siphon: Create a certain siphon effect (referring to the vacuum in condenser outlet water). Oil system: Normal operation of the oil system (including oil tank level, oil pressure, oil flow, etc.), with oil temperature not lower than 20°C. Turning gear: Continuous operation of the turning gear; for units without continuous turning gear equipment, the turning gear handle should be removed.
The steam turbine must be fully prepared before startup, just as I usually inspect a car engine with caution. First, check the lubrication oil system—the oil passages must be clear, and the oil pressure must reach the standard value; otherwise, the rotating parts will experience dry friction and overheating, leading to severe equipment wear and forced shutdown for repairs, which is time-consuming and labor-intensive. Also, confirm that the cooling water supply is normal, and the water temperature should neither be too high nor too low, as internal thermal expansion and contraction could cause cracks or blockages, reducing efficiency or even risking explosions. The steam pressure must remain stable within the specified range—too high is unsafe, while too low won’t drive the blades effectively. Control instruments must be properly calibrated, similar to a car’s ignition switch, ensuring signals are normal to respond to commands. Safety valves and alarm devices should be tested to prevent unhandled emergencies. Only after completing all these steps can the startup proceed smoothly and safely, and remember to perform regular maintenance to prevent issues.
