Precision steam path dimensional measurement, the key to developing competitive steam path rerates, and advanced technology component upgrades, 2012 TAPPI PEERS Conference

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The lack of accurate dimensional data on the internal steam path components has always been the primary obstacle to gaining 3rd party / non-OEM participation on the supply of improved technology steam path components and major steam turbine up-rates. This limitation has traditionally left customers with few alternatives when it came to developing unique up-rate solutions and competitive pricing on critical high performance advanced technology blades, nozzles, and seals. The recent introduction of advanced 3-D scanning technology has expanded opportunities for non-OEM suppliers to more fully participate in this traditionally closed market. This paper will review the opportunities and challenges inherent in collecting and applying scanned dimensional data to implement advanced technology steam path modernizations. Selected case studies will also be presented that demonstrate the range of benefits that can be realized through the use of this emerging technology to implement cost effective major turbine re-rate projects.