Chapter 10 - Performance, Performance Testing, and Performance Optimization

Abstract

Gas turbine performance, performance verification, and maintenance are irrevocably linked in an end user’s world. In summary, gas turbine performance verification (testing) is done at several levels. The testing of new GTs, done at the OEM’s facility, may be witnessed by end-user reps. Sometimes functional, no-load tests are conducted. Load testing is far more expensive than functional testing but critical in cases where the application or engine model is in some way different from previous applications. One small component change or instrument system change could change what was a successful gas turbine system without that change. OEMs may conduct tests to check a modified component. Frequently, they negotiate with an existing end user to check a new development in an existing plant application. Repair and overhaul is done by OEMs and independent shops. This chapter includes several case studies covering performance and performance verification.