Blackstone recently conducted a detailed inspection to investigate increased vibration issues on a steam turbine built in 1946, predating the digital era. The scope included the disassembly of the steam turbine, investigation of wear on parts, part refurbishment, component procurement and full assembly as well as alignment and component improvement. Our investigation also included a detailed motion amplification study to better understand unit vibration and the relationship with the surrounding auxiliary piping and equipment. Despite lacking modern documentation, our team meticulously reviewed the limited historical maintenance records and physical blueprints. Key components, including the rotor, bearings, and seals, were closely examined to identify wear, misalignment, or damage. The investigation pinpointed specific areas requiring maintenance and provided actionable recommendations to mitigate vibration and enhance performance. This project underscores Blackstone’s expertise in maintaining and optimizing vintage industrial equipment, blending traditional engineering practices with modern diagnostic methods.
Disassemble the steam turbine and investigate increased vibration issues.
Further inspection and investigation were completed on the turbine rotor at Blackstone’s Repair Centre in Sherwood Park.
The coupling was found to be badly worn, and we were requested to quote a replacement.
The radial bearings were found to be delaminating, and we were requested to quote the repair of each unit.
Once all components had been inspected and repaired, they were returned to the site, and the field crew reassembled the unit.
Assist with vibration monitoring and trim balancing once the unit was recommissioned.
Third party motion amplification study was conducted (vibration/foundation analysis) to ensure the foundation was deficient-free.
After 4 weeks of run time, a small crew returned to inspect and regrease the coupling.
Third Party – Motion Study
Dealing with a unit built in 1946 with little information available, incomplete information and missing specifications.
The existing beam and trolleys had low overhead clearance. They had been replaced recently, which caused a more severe clearance issue when removing the rotor from the building.
Upper and lower cases had cracks in and around the split line bolting area.
The coupling provided posed some challenges regarding fitting up and retaining its lubrication. Several modificationshad to be made to ensure that the seal would stay in place and retain grease.
The bolting provided was not industry spec, and the old bolting had to be utilized and modified to fit. Blackstone’s Repair Center fabricated a custom O-ring retainer designed by Blackstone’s engineers.
Trim Balancing was a very laborious procedure as the machine had to be isolated each time and the inboard bearing housing cover removed each time a change was required. Eventually, the client was convinced to add jack bolt holes in the cover to assist with removal.
