Advanced NDE Systems for Flexible Operation ... - Siemens Energy

through the viewing window at greater than the speed of sound. Additionally, the
system includes design considerations for resolution, array size, sensor cooling, power
dissipation, dynamic range, package size, thermal stability, vibration resistance, and of
course cost. Infrared camera and support systems have been operated in test-bed and
operating plant environments and have demonstrated integrity of the system for 8000
hours of engine operation.
Figure 7 – Example of penetration for on-line thermal imaging of row 1 turbine
blades
The On-Line Monitor supervisory control software, shown in Figure 8, includes the
ability to control sensor parameters and synchronize the image timing to the rotation of
the gas turbine shaft, such that individual blades can be selected for instantaneous or
continuous monitoring. The software operates in a PC environment and can be brought
to the customer plant site to be connected directly to the installed optical system.
Alternatively, the control signal and resulting image outputs can be streamed through
internet connections so that the On-Line Monitor can be operated remotely, from
Siemens service support locations, such as the Orlando Power Diagnostic Center.
Figure 8 – On-Line Monitor software controls the real-time, high-speed IR sensor
to capture turbine images on-site or from Siemens Power Diagnostics Center.
Copyright © 2006 Siemens Power Generation, Inc.