Assessment of Airborne Contaminants and the Washing Through Effect on Performance Degradation and Corrosion of V94.2 Gas Turbines in Behbahan CCPP

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Assistant Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Khatam Al-Anbia University of Technology, Behbahan, Iran

2 Msc. Student, Mechanical Engineering, Khatam Al-Anbia University of Technology, Behbahan, Iran; Senior Engineer of the Engineering Unit at Behbahan Combined Cycle Power Plant

3 Assistant Professor, Department of Chemical Engineering, Khatam Al-Anbia University of Technology, Behbahan, Iran

Abstract

Power plants in the southern regions of the country face significant challenges due to specific environmental conditions, leading to air pollution entering the gas turbines, which negatively impacts equipment performance and lifespan. In V94.2 gas turbines, the incoming air is passed through filters before being directed to the compressor. However, under conditions such as sudden rainfall or increased humidity, filter performance is disrupted, allowing pollutants to infiltrate the turbine. One of the main consequences of this phenomenon is the entry of salt pollutants into the combustion system. These pollutants dissolve in rainwater and eventually reach the combustion chamber, mixing with the air-fuel mixture. These pollutants disrupt the combustion process and accelerate the corrosion and degradation of protective oxide layers on hot-section alloys. This phenomenon, known as the Washing Through Effect (WTE), causes corrosive substances to penetrate sensitive turbine components, such as blades and combustion chamber walls, resulting in reduced efficiency, increased fuel consumption, and premature failure of components. This study examines the effects of inlet air pollution on the performance and material integrity of V94.2 turbines, focusing on the types and levels of pollutants. It also provides solutions to improve filtration processes and reduce WTE-related damage. The results of this study can help extend equipment life and reduce maintenance costs in power plants located in humid and polluted areas.

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Main Subjects


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