First Paper: Plant Aspects of Turbine Generator Foundations

Abstract

The paper begins with a description of the various types of turbine generator foundations that have been installed and those that are intended for use in the near future. Then follows a section detailing the requisite characteristics of machine foundations and the factors that must be considered in order to obtain satisfactory operation. As the foundations support rotating machinery, the subject of vibration is discussed, including fundamental equations and their practical applications to the problem of calculating frequencies in the structures. Among the many factors that have to be considered when selecting the type of foundation are the size of machine and the station arrangement. The various factors are presented with comments. Important characteristics relating to the material properties and to the erection and behaviour of steel and concrete foundations are described. The topic of alignment is considered, including methods of maintaining machine alignment relative to the foundation structure. The causes of foundation distortion and the resulting effect on the alignment of the machine are summarized and some reference is made to precompensation in anticipation of misalignment developing.