Common faults in steam turbines and how to prevent them
Steam turbines are robust machines designed to operate reliably for decades, provided they are used and maintained correctly. However, no machine is immune to wear, technical faults, or operational disturbances. In this article, we review three common types of faults that can affect turbines, why they occur, and how they can be prevented with the right measures.
Imbalance and vibrations – an early warning sign
One of the most common problems with rotating equipment, including turbines, is rotor imbalance. This can occur when turbine blades accumulate deposits from impure steam, for example if the feedwater is not sufficiently clean or if moisture and particles enter the steam flow. Such deposits change the mass and geometry of the blades, which disrupts balance. Another cause is uneven wear that can develop over time, often as a result of particle-induced erosion. Varying operating conditions that cause certain components to be subjected to higher loads than others are an additional factor.
Imbalance leads to increased vibrations, which can primarily damage bearings, surfaces, and seals, but can also be transmitted to driven equipment such as pumps or generators. To avoid this, regular vibration measurements and inspections are recommended. By monitoring changes in vibration frequency and intensity, problems can be detected before they cause unplanned shutdowns. It is also important to monitor the lubrication system, as improper lubrication can further aggravate vibrations.
Imbalance leads to increased vibrations, which can primarily damage bearings, surfaces, and seals, but can also be transmitted to driven equipment such as pumps or generators. To avoid this, regular vibration measurements and inspections are recommended. By monitoring changes in vibration frequency and intensity, problems can be detected before they cause unplanned shutdowns. It is also important to monitor the lubrication system, as improper lubrication can further aggravate vibrations.
Reduced efficiency due to deposits and erosion
Over time, steam containing particles or moisture can cause deposits and erosion on turbine blade surfaces. This affects efficiency and leads to energy losses. Erosion is particularly common in steam turbines operating under varying conditions or where steam quality is inconsistent.
To prevent this, steam quality should be checked regularly and water treatment systems should be used. It is also important to visually inspect the blades during planned shutdowns. If necessary, blades can be cleaned or replaced as part of preventive maintenance. Feel free to read more about our turbine maintenance services.
To prevent this, steam quality should be checked regularly and water treatment systems should be used. It is also important to visually inspect the blades during planned shutdowns. If necessary, blades can be cleaned or replaced as part of preventive maintenance. Feel free to read more about our turbine maintenance services.
Insufficient monitoring of the oil system
The oil system in a steam turbine is critical for both cooling and lubrication. Problems such as contaminated oil, low oil pressure, or overheated oil can be caused by issues such as poor filter maintenance, leaks, clogged coolers, or incorrectly set pressure controls.
If the oil is dirty—for example contaminated with metal particles, water, or a degraded lubricating film—the protection against friction is reduced. This in turn increases wear on bearings and other moving parts.
Low oil pressure means that oil does not reach all surfaces requiring lubrication and, in the worst case, can lead to dry running. Overheated oil becomes thinner and can chemically degrade, impairing both lubrication and cooling. If these issues are not addressed in time, they can cause overheating, excessive wear, and in some cases damage that requires major repairs or forces a complete turbine shutdown.
By taking regular oil samples and following up on the results, it is possible to detect water, particles, or changes in the oil’s chemical composition. This allows corrective action to be taken before operational disturbances occur. In a structured turbine maintenance program, oil analysis is often a key component.
If the oil is dirty—for example contaminated with metal particles, water, or a degraded lubricating film—the protection against friction is reduced. This in turn increases wear on bearings and other moving parts.
Low oil pressure means that oil does not reach all surfaces requiring lubrication and, in the worst case, can lead to dry running. Overheated oil becomes thinner and can chemically degrade, impairing both lubrication and cooling. If these issues are not addressed in time, they can cause overheating, excessive wear, and in some cases damage that requires major repairs or forces a complete turbine shutdown.
By taking regular oil samples and following up on the results, it is possible to detect water, particles, or changes in the oil’s chemical composition. This allows corrective action to be taken before operational disturbances occur. In a structured turbine maintenance program, oil analysis is often a key component.
Ensure reliable operation and reduce the risk of shutdowns – contact us
Do you want to avoid unplanned downtime and extend the service life of your turbines? With the right turbine maintenance strategy, many of the most common faults can be prevented, resulting in safer and more energy-efficient operation.
Contact us at Sveadiesel and we will help you develop a maintenance plan tailored specifically to your needs.
Contact us at Sveadiesel and we will help you develop a maintenance plan tailored specifically to your needs.