Development of an 8MW-Class High-Efficiency Gas Turbine, M7A-03

Abstract

The M7A-03 gas turbine, an 8 MW class, single shaft gas turbine, is the latest model of the Kawasaki M7A series. Because of the high thermal efficiency and the high exhaust gas temperature, it is particularly suitable for distributed power generation, cogeneration and combined-cycle applications. About the development of M7A-03 gas turbine, Kawasaki has taken the experience of the existing M7A-01 and M7A-02 series into consideration, as a baseline. Furthermore, the latest technology of aerodynamics and cooling design, already applied to the 18 MW class Kawasaki L20A, released in 2000, has been applied to the M7A-03. Kawasaki has adopted the design concept for achieving reliability within the shortest possible development period by selecting the same fundamental engine specifications of the existing M7A-02 – mass air flow rate, pressure ratio, TIT, etc. However, the M7A-03 has been attaining a thermal efficiency of greater than 2.5 points higher and an output increment of over 660 kW than the M7A-02, by the improvement in aerodynamic performance of the compressor, turbine and exhaust diffuser, improved turbine cooling, and newer seal technology. In addition, the NOx emission of the combustor is low and the M7A-03 has a long service life. These functions make long-term continuous operation possible under various environmental restraints. Lower life cycle costs are achieved by the engine high performance, and the high-reliability resulting from simple structure. The prototype M7A-03 gas-turbine development test started in the spring of 2006 and it has been confirmed that performance, mechanical characteristics, and emissions have achieved the initial design goals.