EP3477066A1 - Appareil d'installation de couplage de charge d'un système de turbine et procédé d'installation de couplage de charge dans un système de turbine - Google Patents

Appareil d'installation de couplage de charge d'un système de turbine et procédé d'installation de couplage de charge dans un système de turbine Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3477066A1
EP3477066A1 EP17461629.2A EP17461629A EP3477066A1 EP 3477066 A1 EP3477066 A1 EP 3477066A1 EP 17461629 A EP17461629 A EP 17461629A EP 3477066 A1 EP3477066 A1 EP 3477066A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
coupling
load
trolley
rails
installation apparatus
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
EP17461629.2A
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German (de)
English (en)
Other versions
EP3477066B1 (fr
Inventor
Magdalena GACA
Piotr Krzysztof Dzieciol
Adrian Adam KLEJC
Szymon PERKOWSKI
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General Electric Co
Original Assignee
General Electric Co
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Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by General Electric Co filed Critical General Electric Co
Priority to EP17461629.2A priority Critical patent/EP3477066B1/fr
Priority to JP2018201396A priority patent/JP7233882B2/ja
Publication of EP3477066A1 publication Critical patent/EP3477066A1/fr
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP3477066B1 publication Critical patent/EP3477066B1/fr
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Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F01—MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; ENGINE PLANTS IN GENERAL; STEAM ENGINES
    • F01D—NON-POSITIVE DISPLACEMENT MACHINES OR ENGINES, e.g. STEAM TURBINES
    • F01D25/00—Component parts, details, or accessories, not provided for in, or of interest apart from, other groups
    • F01D25/28—Supporting or mounting arrangements, e.g. for turbine casing
    • F01D25/285—Temporary support structures, e.g. for testing, assembling, installing, repairing; Assembly methods using such structures
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F05—INDEXING SCHEMES RELATING TO ENGINES OR PUMPS IN VARIOUS SUBCLASSES OF CLASSES F01-F04
    • F05D—INDEXING SCHEME FOR ASPECTS RELATING TO NON-POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT MACHINES OR ENGINES, GAS-TURBINES OR JET-PROPULSION PLANTS
    • F05D2230/00—Manufacture
    • F05D2230/60—Assembly methods
    • F05D2230/64—Assembly methods using positioning or alignment devices for aligning or centring, e.g. pins
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F05—INDEXING SCHEMES RELATING TO ENGINES OR PUMPS IN VARIOUS SUBCLASSES OF CLASSES F01-F04
    • F05D—INDEXING SCHEME FOR ASPECTS RELATING TO NON-POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT MACHINES OR ENGINES, GAS-TURBINES OR JET-PROPULSION PLANTS
    • F05D2260/00—Function
    • F05D2260/02—Transport and handling during maintenance and repair

Definitions

  • the disclosure relates generally to installation apparatuses for turbine systems, and more particularly, to installation apparatuses for load-couplings of turbine systems, and methods of installing load-couplings within turbine systems using installation apparatuses.
  • frames or diffusers are typically attached or coupled to an outlet of a turbine component. These diffusers are attached to the turbine component to safely direct gases passing through and/or from the turbine component into the environment surrounding the turbine system, or alternatively, to direct the gases to another component that may utilize the gases for additional processes (e.g., a heat recovery steam generator).
  • the diffusers are positioned directly adjacent to, and downstream from generators of the turbine system.
  • the clearance between the diffusers and generators of the turbine system may be minimal (e.g., 2-3 meters) to improve efficiency of the turbine system and/or to reduce the risk of undesirable exposure and/or undesirable operation of a load-coupling section of the rotor that may couple a turbine section of the rotor with the generator section of the rotor.
  • one conventional process of replacing the load-coupling includes removing/disassembling the diffuser and/or generator of the turbine system to provide access to the load-coupling.
  • This conventional process is labor intensive, requires the removal/disassembling of large components (e.g., diffuser formed as single, unitary component) and/or a large number of components, and requires the turbine system to be non-operational for an extend period of time.
  • a crane is used to both remove, support, and install the load-couplings with the turbine system.
  • the crane is positioned above the diffuser and generator and the load-coupling is rotated to be substantially vertical and then lowered into the space or clearance between the diffuser and the generator.
  • the load-coupling may then be rotated to be substantially horizontal and simultaneously positioned or inserted into the diffuser on the side adjacent the generator to be coupled to the turbine section of the rotor with the generator section of the rotor, respectively.
  • this conventional process is also time consuming, and increases the risk of the load-coupling, the diffuser, and/or the generator from being damaged if the load-coupling is not perfectly passed or threaded through the minimal clearance between the diffuser and the generator.
  • this conventional process for installing the load-coupling may only work when the load-coupling includes a length that is smaller than a predetermined length. That is, in some instances the load-coupling for the turbine system may be too long to install using the crane because there may not be enough space or clearance between the diffuser and the generator to allow the load-coupling to rotate to be substantially horizontal before being coupled to the turbine section and generator section of the rotor.
  • a first aspect of the disclosure provides an installation apparatus for a load-coupling of a turbine system.
  • the installation apparatus includes: a plurality of rails extending axially through a portion of a diffuser of the turbine system, each of the plurality of rails including: a first distal end positioned within and releasably coupled to the diffuser; and a second distal end positioned opposite the first distal end; and at least one trolley positioned on the plurality of rails, the at least one trolley including: a plurality of wheel housings, each wheel housing including at least one wheel slidably engaging a corresponding rail of the plurality of rails; and a cradle component positioned partially within each of the plurality of wheel housings, the cradle component for receiving the load-coupling of the turbine system.
  • a second aspect of the disclosure provides a method of installing a load-coupling in a turbine system using an installation apparatus.
  • the method includes: positioning the installation apparatus at least partially within a diffuser of the turbine system, the installation apparatus including: a plurality of rails releasably coupled to and extending axially through a portion of the diffuser, toward a generator of the turbine system; and at least one trolley positioned on the plurality of rails, the at least one trolley including: a plurality of wheel housings, each wheel housing including at least one wheel slidably engaging a corresponding rail of the plurality of rails; and a cradle component positioned partially within each of the plurality of wheel housings; positioning the load-coupling of the turbine system on the cradle component of the at least one trolley of the installation apparatus by moving the load-coupling through the diffuser adjacent a turbine of the turbine system using the at least one trolley of the installation apparatus; and coupling the load-coupling of the turbine system to at least one of: a turbine section of
  • downstream and upstream are terms that indicate a direction relative to the flow of a fluid, such as the working fluid through the turbine engine or, for example, the flow of air through the combustor or coolant through one of the turbine's component systems.
  • the term “downstream” corresponds to the direction of flow of the fluid, and the term “upstream” refers to the direction opposite to the flow.
  • forward and “aft,” without any further specificity, refer to directions, with “forward” referring to the front or compressor end of the engine, and “aft” referring to the rearward or turbine end of the engine. Additionally, the terms “leading” and “trailing” may be used and/or understood as being similar in description as the terms “forward” and “aft,” respectively. It is often required to describe parts that are at differing radial, axial and/or circumferential positions.
  • the “A” axis represents an axial orientation.
  • the terms “axial” and/or “axially” refer to the relative position/direction of objects along axis A, which is substantially parallel with the axis of rotation of the turbine system (in particular, the rotor).
  • radial and/or radially refer to the relative position/direction of objects along an axis "R” (see, FIG. 1 ), which is substantially perpendicular with axis A and intersects axis A at only one location.
  • circumferential refers to movement or position around axis A (e.g., axis "C").
  • the following disclosure relates generally to installation apparatuses for turbine systems, and more particularly, to installation apparatuses for load-couplings of turbine systems, and methods of installing load-couplings within turbine systems using installation apparatuses.
  • FIG. 1 shows a schematic view of gas turbine system 10 as may be used herein.
  • Gas turbine system 10 may include a compressor 12.
  • Compressor 12 compresses an incoming flow of air 18.
  • Compressor 12 delivers a flow of compressed air 20 to a combustor 22.
  • Combustor 22 mixes the flow of compressed air 20 with a pressurized flow of fuel 24 and ignites the mixture to create a flow of combustion gases 26.
  • gas turbine system 10 may include any number of combustors 22.
  • the flow of combustion gases 26 is in turn delivered to a turbine 28, which typically includes a plurality of turbine blades or buckets and stator vanes.
  • the flow of combustion gases 26 drives turbine 28 to produce mechanical work.
  • Rotor 30 may be segmented and/or may include distinct, coupled portions to form a unitary shaft for gas turbine system 10.
  • rotor 30 may include a turbine portion 34 included within turbine 28, and a load-coupling 36 coupling turbine portion 34 of rotor 30 and a generator portion 38 of rotor 30 included within generator 32 of gas turbine system 10.
  • load-coupling 36 may also translate the rotate of turbine portion 34 to generator portion 38 drive generator 32 and/or drive the external load.
  • Gas turbine system 10 may also include a diffuser 40.
  • diffuser 40 may be positioned adjacent turbine 28 of gas turbine system 10. More specifically, diffuser 40 may be positioned adjacent to turbine 28 and may be positioned substantially downstream of turbine 28 and/or the flow of combustion gases 26 flowing from combustor 22 to turbine 28. As discussed herein, a portion (e.g., outer casing) of diffuser 40 may be coupled directly to an enclosure, shell or casing 42 (hereafter, "casing 42") of turbine 28.
  • casing 42 shell or casing 42
  • load-coupling 36 may be at least partially positioned within and/or extend axially through diffuser 40.
  • combustion gases 26 may be exhausted, flow-through and/or discharged through diffuser 40 in a flow direction (D).
  • combustion gases 26 may flow through diffuser 40 in the flow direction (D) and may be discharged from gas turbine system 10 (e.g., to the atmosphere).
  • gas turbine system 10 is part of a combined cycle power plant (e.g., including gas turbine system and a steam turbine system)
  • combustion gases 26 may discharge from diffuser 40, and may flow in the flow direction (D) into a heat recovery steam generator of the combined cycle power plant.
  • FIG. 2A shows an exploded, perspective view of a non-limiting example of an installation apparatus 100.
  • Installation apparatus 100 may be utilized by a turbine system (e.g., gas turbine system 10) for installing portions of a rotor.
  • a turbine system e.g., gas turbine system 10
  • installation apparatus 100 may be utilized to install of load-coupling 36 within gas turbine system 10.
  • installation apparatus 100 may aid in the installation of portions of a rotor, such as load-coupling 36, within gas turbine system 10 where there is minimal space and/or clearance (e.g., approximately 2 meters to approximately 3 meters) between diffuser 40 and generator 32.
  • installation apparatus 100 may include a platform portion 102 and at least one trolley 104 positioned on platform portion 102.
  • Platform portion 102 may include a plurality of rails 106.
  • each rail 106 may be a solid, single body component.
  • each rail 106 may be formed from distinct portions that may be joined and/or coupled prior to utilizing installation apparatus 100.
  • the plurality of rails 106 may be formed from any suitable material that may be substantially rigid and capable of withstanding the weight of load-coupling 36 of gas turbine system 10 during the installation process discussed herein.
  • each of the plurality of rails of installation apparatus 100 may be formed from material including, but not limited to, metal, metal alloys, polymers, or wood.
  • the plurality of rails 106 of installation apparatus 100 may be directly coupled to diffuser 40 and may extend axially through a portion of diffuser 40 when being utilized within gas turbine system 10 to aid in the installation of load-coupling 36.
  • Each of the plurality of rails 106 may include two distal ends 108, 110.
  • each rail 106 of installation apparatus 100 may include a first distal end 108, and a second distal end 110 formed opposite first distal end 108.
  • first distal end 108 may be positioned within, surrounded by, and/or coupled directly to diffuser 40 of gas turbine system 10 when installation apparatus 100 is utilized to install load-coupling 36 within gas turbine system 10.
  • first distal end 108 of rail 106 may include a coupling plate 112.
  • each rail 106 may include coupling plate 112 formed at first distal end 108 to directly couple each rail 106 to diffuser 40.
  • coupling plate 112 may be formed as a distinct component from rail 106, and may be coupled or affixed to first distal end 108 of rail 106 using any suitable joining or coupling technique.
  • coupling plate 112 may be releasably fastened (e.g., bolted, screwed), or alternatively, may be welded or brazed directly to first distal end 108 of rail 106.
  • coupling plate 112 may be formed integral with rail 106 and/or first distal end 108 of rail 106.
  • coupling plate 112 may be formed from any suitable material that may be substantially rigid, maintain a coupling with diffuser 40 of gas turbine system 10, and capable of withstanding the weight of load-coupling 36 experienced by rail 106 during the installation process discussed herein.
  • each of the plurality of rails of installation apparatus 100 may be formed from material including, but not limited to, metal, metal alloys, polymers, or ceramics.
  • coupling plate 112 may be formed from a material that is the same or distinct from the material forming rails 106.
  • each rail 106 of installation apparatus 100 may utilize a plurality of interchangeable coupling plates 112 to couple rail 106 of installation apparatus 100 to distinct diffusers in distinct turbine systems. That is, various, distinct coupling plates 112 may be interchangeably coupled or affixed to first distal end 108 of rail 106 to allow installation apparatus 100 to be easily coupled to distinct diffusers and/or utilized by various distinct, turbine systems for installing load-couplings. As discussed herein ( see, FIG. 6 ), each of the plurality of coupling plates 112 may include a geometry corresponding to a distinct diffuser of a distinct turbine system.
  • each rail 106 may also include a track 118.
  • track 118 may be positioned on a top surface 120 of each rail 106 of platform portion 102.
  • Track 118 may be releasably coupled to, affixed to, or formed integral with top surface 120 of each rail 106.
  • rails 106 may be configured to receive a plurality of distinct tracks 118 including different lengths and/or structures or configurations.
  • the different lengths may depend on a variety of characteristics of installation apparatus 100 and/or gas turbine system 10 including, but not limited to, the configuration of trolley(s) 104, the size of trolley(s) 104, the length of rails 106, the length/size of load-coupling 36, the distance between diffuser 40 and generator 32, and so on.
  • track 118 may extend over at least a portion of the length of rail 106. In the non-limiting example shown, track 118 may extend between first distal end 108 and second distal end 110, respectively, of rail 106. As discussed herein, track 118 positioned on top surface 120 of each rail 106 may receive, contact, and guide the axial movement of trolley(s) 104 during the installation process of load-coupling 36.
  • Track 118 may be formed from any suitable rigid material including, but not limited to, metal, metal alloys, polymer, ceramic and the like.
  • Platform portion 102 of installation apparatus 100 may also include a plurality of supports 122.
  • the plurality of supports 122 of installation apparatus 100 may extend radially below the plurality of rails 106. More specifically, and as shown in FIG. 2A , the plurality of supports may be positioned substantially perpendicular to, extend radially from, and/or substantially below the plurality of rails 106 of platform portion 102 of installation apparatus 100.
  • Each of the plurality of supports 122 may be releasably coupled to a corresponding rail 106 of the plurality of rails. That is, a single support 122 may be releasably coupled to and may substantially support and/or stabilize a single, corresponding rail 106 of installation apparatus 100 during the installation process discussed herein.
  • each support 122 may be releasably coupled to second distal end 110 of corresponding rail 106 using any suitable coupling technique including, but not limited to, fasteners, latches, clamps, ties, pins, and the like.
  • each support 122 may be a solid, single body component.
  • each support 122 may be formed from distinct portions that may be joined and/or coupled prior to utilizing installation apparatus 100.
  • the plurality of supports 122 may be formed from any suitable material that may be substantially rigid and capable of withstanding the weight of load-coupling 36 imparted on the plurality of rails 106 during the installation process discussed herein.
  • each of the plurality of supports 122 of installation apparatus 100 may be formed from material including, but not limited to, metal, metal alloys, polymers, or wood.
  • Each support 122 of platform portion 102 may also include an adjustable component 126.
  • adjustable component 126 may be formed at a second end 128 of each support 122. That is, adjustable components 126 may be formed and/or coupled to second end 128 of support 122, opposite first end 124 and/or second distal end 110 of rails 106. Adjustable component 126 formed on each support 122 to substantially adjust the height of support 122 and/or level support 122. In conjunction with adjusting the height and/or leveling support 122, and as discussed herein, adjustable component 126 may also substantially adjust the height, incline, and/or level the respective rails 106 of installation apparatus 100 that may be coupled to supports 122. In a non-limiting example shown in FIG.
  • each adjustable component 126 may include a threaded screw 130 coupled directly to second end 128 of support 122, and a stabilizer foot 132 (hereafter, "foot 132"), coupled directly to threaded screw 130.
  • the threaded screw 130 may be turned within second end 128 of support 122 to either increase or decrease the length of threaded screw 130 until foot 132 of adjustable component 126 contacts and/or is secured to a surface positioned below support 122.
  • threaded screw 130 and foot 132 are shown, it is understood that adjustable component 126 may be any suitable component or assembly that may adjust the height of support 122 and/or level support 122.
  • adjustable component 126 may include a hydraulic/pneumatic/mechanical jack, hydraulic/pneumatic/mechanical lifts, wedges and the like.
  • Installation apparatus 100 may also include at least one trolley 104.
  • installation apparatus 100 is shown to include two trolleys 104.
  • the number of trolleys 104 included within installation apparatus 100 is merely illustrative. As such, installation apparatus 100 may include more or less ( see, FIG. 6 ) trolleys 104 than the number of trolleys 104 depicted in FIG. 2A .
  • the number of trolleys 104 included within installation apparatus may be dependent, at least in part on, the configuration of trolley(s) 104, the size of trolley(s) 104, the length of rails 106, the length/size/weight of load-coupling 36, and so on.
  • trolley(s) 104 may be positioned on, may contact, and/or may slidably engage rails 102 when utilizing installation apparatus 100 to install load-coupling 36 within turbine system 10 ( see, FIG. 1 ).
  • Trolley(s) 104 may include a plurality of wheel housing 134. Each wheel housing 134 of trolley(s) 104 may include at least one wheel 136. The number of wheel(s) 136 included within wheel housing 134 of trolley(s) 104 may be dependent on, for example, the configuration of wheel housing 134, the size of wheel housing 134, the length of rails 106, the length/size/weight of load-coupling 36, and the like. During the installation process, the wheel(s) 136 of wheel housings 134 may slidably engage a corresponding rail 106 of installation apparatus 100.
  • each wheel 136 of wheel housing 134 may substantially contact, move/roll over, and/or slidably engage a corresponding rail 106 of installation apparatus 100 as trolley(s) 104, and more specifically wheel housing 134, moves in an axial direction on a corresponding rail 106 during the installation process discussed herein.
  • wheel housing 134 may include any assembly and/or component that may allow wheel housing 134 and/or trolley(s) 104 of installation apparatus to move in an axial direction on rails 106.
  • each wheel housing 134 and/or wheel(s) 136 of wheel housing 134 may contact a respective track 118 formed on rail 106 ( see, FIG. 2A ) when performing the installation process discussed herein. That is, track 118 formed on each rail 106 of platform portion 102 may substantially receive, contact, brace, and/or guide each wheel housing 134 and/or wheel(s) 136 of wheel housing 134 when wheel(s) 136 slidably engage and move in an axial direction over rails 106.
  • track 118 formed on each rail 106 of platform portion 102 may substantially receive, contact, brace, and/or guide each wheel housing 134 and/or wheel(s) 136 of wheel housing 134 when wheel(s) 136 slidably engage and move in an axial direction over rails 106.
  • tracks 118 formed on rails 106 may be positioned between wheel housings 134 of trolley 104 to substantially prevent trolley 104 from undesirably shifting in a radial direction and/or from being removed or falling off of rails 106 during the installation process.
  • Wheel housings 134 of trolley 104 may also include a recess 138 formed therein. As a shown in FIG. 3 , each wheel housing 134 of trolley 104 may include recess 138 formed on an inner surface 140, such that the respective recesses 138 of wheel housings 134 may face one another, be positioned opposite one another, and/or may be radially aligned. Recesses 138 of each wheel housing 134 of trolley 104 may receive a portion of a cross member 142. Specifically, cross member 142 may include projections 144 that may be positioned within and/or received by a corresponding recess 138 of wheel housing 134 to substantially fix or couple cross member 142 to each of wheel housing 134 of trolley 104. In the non-limiting example shown in FIG.
  • cross member 142 may be fixed to wheel housing 134 of trolley 104 using a plurality of fasteners 146 (e.g., screws) that may pass through apertures 148 formed through wheel housing 134 and/or recess 138, and fasteners 146 may be coupled to projection 144 of cross member 142 positioned within a corresponding recess 138.
  • Fixing cross member 142 to each of the plurality of wheel housings 134 of trolley 104 may substantially ensure that each wheel housing 134 moves in an axial direction together or in sync during the installation process discussed herein.
  • trolley 104 may also include a cradle component 150.
  • Cradle component 150 may be positioned within each of the plurality of wheel housings 134 of trolley 104. Specifically, a portion of cradle component 150 may be positioned within each recess 138 of wheel housings 134 of trolley 104, and cradle component 150 may be positioned and/or extend between each wheel housing 134. Additionally as shown in FIG. 3 , cradle component 150 may be positioned above and/or positioned on cross member 142. That is, cross member 142 may be positioned below and may substantially support cradle component 150 of trolley 104.
  • Cradle component 150 may substantially contact, receive, cradle, and/or support load-coupling 36 of turbine system 10 during an installation process discussed herein ( see, FIG. 4 ).
  • Cradle component 150 may substantially contact, receive, cradle, and/or support load-coupling 36 on contact surface 152.
  • Contact surface 152 of cradle component 150 that may contact, receive, cradle, and/or support load-coupling 36 may include a curved geometry 154 that may substantially correspond to a curvature of load-coupling 36 of turbine system 10 ( see, FIG. 1 ).
  • curved geometry 154 of contact surface 152 may correspond, be similar/equal to, and/or may be substantially concentric with the curvature of load-coupling 36 to ensure that load-coupling 36 is not able to undesirably shift (e.g., in a radial direction) when positioned within cradle component 150 during the installation process.
  • Cradle component 150 of trolley 104 may be formed from any suitable material that may be substantially rigid and capable of withstanding the weight of load-coupling 36 of gas turbine system 10 during the installation process discussed herein.
  • cradle component 150 of trolley 104 of installation apparatus 100 may be formed from material including, but not limited to, metal, metal alloys, polymers, ceramics, wood, or the like.
  • cradle component 150 may be formed as a single, unitary component.
  • cradle component 150 may be formed from distinct portions that may be assembled in place (e.g., within diffuser 40) and may be coupled together before receiving load-coupling 36 during the installation process.
  • curved geometry 154 of contact surface 152 of cradle component 150 may correspond to a curvature of load-coupling 36.
  • a plurality of cradle components 150 may be created and/or manufactured to receive distinct load-couplings 36 for various turbine systems 10 ( e.g., see, FIG. 1 ).
  • Each of the plurality of cradle components 150 may include contact surface 152 having a distinct or unique curved geometry 154 that may corresponding to a curvature of a distinct load-coupling 36.
  • each of the plurality of cradle components 150 including distinct or unique curved geometries 154 may be interchangeably received, positioned within and/or coupled to each of the plurality of wheel housings 134 of trolley(s) 104. That is, the plurality of wheel housings 134 of a single trolley 104 for installation apparatus 100 may be configured to receive a plurality of cradle components 150, each including distinct or unique curved geometries 154 for contact surfaces 152.
  • Trolley(s) 104 of installation apparatus 100 may also include a plurality of displacement components configured to adjust the position of cradle component 150 within trolley 104.
  • at least one wheel housing 134 of trolley 104 may include a displacement component 156.
  • each wheel housing 134 of trolley 104 may include displacement component 156 positioned within an aperture 158 formed through recess 138 of wheel housing 134, and displacement component 156 may extend partially into recess 138.
  • Displacement component 156 may also be positioned adjacent to and may substantially contact a side surface 160 of cradle component 150.
  • Displacement components 156 may contact side surface 160 of cradle component 150 to adjust the position of cradle component 150 between the plurality of wheel housings 134 of trolley 104. That is, displacement components 156 may contact side surface 160 of cradle component 150 to adjust and/or shift the radial position of cradle component 150 between the plurality of wheel housings 134, and/or to move cradle component 150 over cross member 142.
  • displacement components 156 may be configured as threaded bolts that may be turned within aperture 158 formed through wheel housing 134 to either increase or decrease the length of the portion of displacement component 156 extending into recess 138 and contacting cradle component 150. Increasing and/or decreasing the length of the portion of displacement component 156 extending into recess 138, and contacting cradle component 150 may adjust, shift, move, and/or change the radial position of cradle component 150 between wheel housings 134 and/or over cross member 142.
  • displacement components 156 may also apply opposite forces on cradle component 150 to maintain and/or secure cradle component 150 within wheel housings 134 of trolley 104.
  • displacement components 156 may be any component, assembly, and/or part that may be configured to adjust the position of cradle component 150 of trolley 104.
  • displacement components 156 may be hydraulic/pneumatic/mechanical jacks, pre-sized inserts or wedges, pins (e.g., clevis pin), and the like.
  • trolley 104 may also include at least one other, distinct displacement component 162.
  • cross member 142 of trolley 104 may include displacement component 162 positioned within cross member 142. More specifically, displacement component 162 may be positioned within and/or through an aperture 164 formed through cross member 142, and displacement component 162 may extend partially above cross member 142 toward cradle component 150. Displacement component 162 may also be positioned adjacent to and may substantially contact a bottom surface 166 of cradle component 150. Displacement components 162 extending through cross member 142 may contact bottom surface 166 of cradle component 150 to adjust the position and/or height of cradle component 150.
  • displacement components 162 may contact bottom surface 166 of cradle component 150 to adjust the distance or separation between cradle component 150 and cross member 142, and to substantially raise or lower cradle component 150 from cross member 142 and/or rails 106 of installation apparatus 100.
  • displacement components 162 may be configured as threaded bolts.
  • the threaded bolts forming displacement components 162 may be turned within aperture 164 formed through cross member 142 to either increase or decrease the length of the portion of displacement component 162 extending above cross member 142 and contacting bottom surface 166 of cradle component 150.
  • Increasing and/or decreasing the length of the portion of displacement component 162 extending above cross member 142, and contacting cradle component 150 may adjust the distance or separation between cradle component 150 and cross member 142, and/or may raise, lift, and/or change the height of cradle component 150.
  • displacement components 162 may be any component, assembly, and/or part that may be configured to adjust the position or height of cradle component 150 of trolley 104.
  • displacement components 162 may be hydraulic/pneumatic/mechanical jacks, pre-sized inserts or wedges, pins, and the like.
  • FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of installation apparatus 100 of FIGs. 2A and 3 , and a portion of diffuser 40 of gas turbine system 10 of FIG. 1 . Specifically, FIG. 4 shows installation apparatus 100 positioned at least partially within and/or coupled to diffuser 40 of gas turbine system 10. It is understood that similarly numbered and/or named components may function in a substantially similar fashion. Redundant explanation of these components has been omitted for clarity.
  • first distal end 108 e.g., shown in phantom
  • each rail 106 may be positioned within and/or may be substantially surrounded by diffuser 40.
  • Additional portions of rails 106 of installation apparatus 100 may also extend outside of diffuser 40.
  • second distal end 110 of rails 106 of installation apparatus 100 may extend outside of, be positioned out of and/or may not be surrounded by diffuser 40.
  • Second distal end 110 of rails 106 may also be positioned between diffuser 40 and generator 32 of turbine system 10 ( see, FIG. 1 ).
  • adjustable components 126 coupled to supports 122 may also be positioned between diffuser 40 and generator 32, and may contact and/or rest on a surface 46 to substantially support or substantially stabilize the plurality of supports 122 of installation apparatus 100.
  • the height of adjustable component 126 may be adjusted (e.g., lengthening threaded screw 130 - FIG.
  • adjustable component 126 may be desirable to adjust the incline of respective rails 106 of installation apparatus 100 using adjustable component 126 to be substantially level and/or in axial alignment with opening 44 of diffuser 40, or alternatively, to be at a slight incline where first distal end 108 of rails 106 are positioned radially above second distal end 110.
  • rail 106 may be coupled directly to diffuser 40.
  • coupling plate 112 formed or positioned at first distal end 108 of each rail 106 may be coupled directly to a portion 48 of diffuser 40 to couple and/or secure rails 106 of installation apparatus 100 to and/or within diffuser 40.
  • coupling plate 112 may be directly and releasably coupled to portion 48 of diffuser 40 using fasteners (e.g., screws, bolts, rivets, and the like) to perform the installation process using installation apparatus 100.
  • coupling plate 112 may be fixed to portion 48 of diffuser 40 using a substantially permanent fixing technique (e.g., welding, brazing, melting, and so on) to secure rails 106 of installation apparatus 100 to diffuser 40 in order to perform the installation process discussed herein. Additionally, and as discussed herein, the geometry, size, and/or shape of coupling plate 112 may correspond and/or match a geometry of portion 48 of diffuser 40 to improve contact and coupling between coupling plate 112 and portion 48 of diffuser 40.
  • a substantially permanent fixing technique e.g., welding, brazing, melting, and so on
  • Portion 48 of diffuser 40 may be a preexisting structure formed in diffuser 40, or alternatively, portion 48 may be formed in diffuser 40 for the purpose of allowing coupling plate 112 formed at first distal end 108 to couple rails 106 of installation apparatus 100 to diffuser 40.
  • load-coupling 36 of turbine system 10 is positioned on and/or received by installation apparatus 100. More specifically, load-coupling 36 of turbine system 10 may be positioned on and/or substantially received by cradle component 150 of trolley 104 of installation apparatus 100. In the non-limiting example shown in FIG. 4 , and as discussed herein, load-coupling 36 may be positioned on and/or substantially received by cradle component 150 of trolley 104 after load-coupling 36 is positioned, moved, and/or passed through opening 44 of diffuser 40, and received by cradle component 150.
  • load-coupling 36 received by and/or positioned on cradle component 150 of trolley 104 may be moved in an axial direction using trolley 104 positioned on rails 106, and/or may be moved in a radial direction by adjusting displacement components 156, 162 of trolley 104. This may substantially align load-coupling 36 with turbine portion 34 and generator portion 38 of rotor 30 ( see, FIG. 1 ) of turbine system 10 and aid in coupling load-coupling 36 to the same.
  • FIGs. 6-8 show various views of another non-limiting example of installation apparatus 200. More specifically, FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of another non-limiting example of installation apparatus 200 including platform portion 202 and trolley(s) 204, FIG. 7 shows an exploded view of trolley 204 shown in FIG. 6 , and FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of trolley 204 of FIG. 7 . It is understood that similarly numbered and/or named components may function in a substantially similar fashion. Redundant explanation of these components has been omitted for clarity.
  • platform portion 202 of installation apparatus 200 may include distinct configurations and/or structures.
  • rails 206 of platform portion 202 of installation apparatus 200 shown in FIG. 6 may be formed from two distinct portions 268A, 268B.
  • First portion 268A may include first distal end 208 of rail 206
  • second portion 268B may include second distal end 210 of rail 206, respectively.
  • first portion 268A may be coupled to diffuser 204 via coupling 212 formed at first distal end 210 ( e.g., see, FIGs. 4 and 5 ), and second portion 268B may be coupled directly to supports 222.
  • first portion 268A and second portion 268B of rail 206 may be joined and/or coupled to one another at joint 270.
  • first portion 268A and second portion 268B may be releasably coupled (e.g., screws, bolt-and-nut, clamps, and the like) to one another at joint 270, or alternatively, may be affixed (e.g., brazed, welded, riveted, and the like) to one another at joint 270, to form rail 206 of installation apparatus 200.
  • supports 222 shown in the non-limiting example of FIG. 6 may also be distinct from supports 122 shown and discussed herein with respect to FIG. 2A . That is, supports 222 of platform portion 202 of installation apparatus 200 shown in FIG. 6 may be formed from two distinct portions 272A, 272B.
  • First portion 272A may include first end 224 of support 222
  • second portion 272B may include second end 228 of support 222, respectively.
  • first portion 272A may be coupled second distal end 210 and/or second portion 268B of rail 206
  • second portion 272B may be coupled directly to and/or may include adjustable component 226. As shown in FIG.
  • first portion 272A and second portion 272B of support 222 may be joined and/or coupled to one another at joint 274.
  • first portion 272A and second portion 272B may be releasably coupled to one another at joint 274, or alternatively, may be affixed to one another at joint 274, to form support 222 of installation apparatus 200.
  • trolley(s) 204 of installation apparatus 200 may include distinct and/or additional features, and/or structures as those discussed herein with respect to trolley 104 shown in FIGs. 2A and 3 .
  • cradle component 250 may be formed from distinct portions 276A, 276B. That is, cradle component 250 may include two distinct portions 276A, 276B that may be coupled and/or affixed to one another. Each portion 276A, 276B of cradle component 250 may be positioned within, received by, and/or coupled to recess 238 formed in a respective or corresponding wheel housing 234 of trolley 204.
  • forming cradle component 250 from two distinct portions 276A, 276B may allow an operator performing the installation process to couple/form cradle component 250, and/or to position cradle component 250 within wheel housing 234 within diffuser 40 and/or after wheel housing 234 has been positioned on rails 206. This may be substantially beneficial where clearance and/or open space within diffuser 40 is substantially minimal.
  • wheel housings 234 of trolley 204 may also include wheel covers 278.
  • Wheel covers 278 may be formed on, integral with, and/or extend from wheel housings 234 adjacent wheels 236. Additionally, wheel covers 278 may substantially surround wheels 236. As shown in the non-limiting example of FIGs. 7 and 8 , wheel covers 278 may extend from all portions of wheel housing 234 except for inner surface 240, and may substantially surround wheels 236 on three sides. In the non-limiting example shown, wheel covers 278 may not extend adjacent inner 240 as a result of wheels 236, and/or inner surface 240 of wheel housing 234 contacting track 218 ( see, FIG. 6 ) during the installation process discussed herein (e.g., avoid catching/obstruction).
  • Wheel covers 278 may be formed on wheel housing 234 to prevent debris and/or foreign objects from undesirably contacting wheels 236 and/or being undesirably wedged between wheels 236 and wheel housing 234, which may result in wheels 236 being unable to axially move trolley 204 over rails 206, as discussed herein.
  • Trolley 204 may also include intermediate plate 280.
  • Intermediate plate 280 may be positioned on and/or above cross member 242 of trolley 204. Additionally, and as shown in FIG. 7 , intermediate plate 280 may be positioned between cross member 242 and cradle component 250 of trolley 204. Intermediate plate 280 may provide a component and/or surface to improve the movement of cradle component 250 within trolley 204. For example, when adjusting the radial position of cradle component 250 between wheel housings 234 using displacement components 256, top surface 282 of intermediate plate 280 may act as a flat, planar surface to allow cradle component 250 to move radially over.
  • a layer of grease or lubricant may be formed on top surface 282 of intermediate plate 280 to reduce friction between intermediate plate 280 and cradle component 250, and/or to ease the radial movement of cradle component 250, as discussed herein. Additionally, when increase or decrease the length of the portion of displacement component 262 extending above cross member 242, displacement component 262 may directly contact bottom surface 284 of intermediate plate 280, which may in turn adjust the distance or separation between cradle component 250 and cross member 242, and/or may raise, lift, and/or change the height of cradle component 250.
  • the stabilization (e.g., substantially level/planar/even) of cradle component 250 may be improved when adjust the distance or separation between cradle component 250 and cross member 242, and/or may raise, lift, and/or change the height of cradle component 250.
  • trolley 204 may also include at least one protective plate 286. More specifically, protective plate(s) 286 may be coupled to cradle component 250 of trolley 204. Protective plate(s) 286 may be formed on, cover, and/or coupled to cradle component 250 to reduce the wear imparted on and/or improve the operational life of cradle component 250. In the non-limiting example shown in FIGs. 7 and 8 , protective plate(s) 286 may be formed on, cover, and/or coupled to portions of cradle component 250 that may experience increased wear and/or strain as a result of the operation and/or function of trolley 204 during the installation process.
  • protective plate(s) 286 may be formed on, cover, and/or coupled to both side surface 260 and bottom surface 266 of cradle component 250 to reduce wear and/or improve operational life of cradle component 250.
  • protective plate(s) 286 may be formed as one or more protective plates.
  • protective plate(s) 286 may be formed as a single plate which covers both side surfaces 260 and the entirety of bottom surface 266 of cradle component 250.
  • protective plate(s) 286 may include two distinct plates, where each plate covers one side surface 260 and at least a portion of bottom surface 266 of cradle component 250.
  • Protective plate(s) 286 may be formed from any suitable material that may reduce wear and/or improve operational life of cradle component 250 including, but not limited to, metal, metal alloys, polymers, ceramics, or the like.
  • FIG. 9 shows an exploded view of another non-limiting example of trolley 304.
  • Trolley 304 shown in FIG. 9 may be utilized within any installation apparatus 100, 200 discussed herein. It is understood that similarly numbered and/or named components may function in a substantially similar fashion. Redundant explanation of these components has been omitted for clarity.
  • Trolley 304 may include distinct and/or additional features, and/or structures as those discussed herein with respect to trolley 104, 204 shown in FIGs. 2A , 3 , and 6-8 , respectively.
  • cross member 342 of trolley 304 may include a distinct configuration and/or features. That is, cross member 342 may not include apertures 164, 264 formed therein ( see, FIG. 3 and 7 ). Rather, cross member 342 may include two slots 388 formed therein. Slots 388 formed in cross member 342 may receive displacement component 362 of trolley 304. That is, each displacement component 362 may be positioned within, and/or substantially received by slot 388 formed in cross member 342.
  • displacement component 362 for trolley 304 may be configured and/or formed as a unique device, component and/or apparatus than displacement component 162, 262 discussed herein with respect to trolley 104, 204 ( see, FIG. 3 and 7 ).
  • displacement components 362 positioned within slots 388 of cross member 342 may be configured or formed as lifts 390.
  • Lifts 390 forming displacement components 362 may be hydraulic lifts, pneumatic lifts, mechanical lifts, or the like. Once actuated, lifts 390 may raise, elongate and/or increase in size to adjust the distance or separation between cradle component 350 and cross member 342, and/or may raise, lift, and/or change the height of cradle component 350.
  • displacement components 362/lifts 390 may each include an optional shim plate 392 (shown in phantom).
  • shim plate 392 may be positioned on/above lift 390, and may contact bottom surface 366 and/or protective plates 386 directly when adjust the distance or separation between cradle component 350 and cross member 342, as discussed herein.
  • shim plate 392 may be positioned below each lift 390 and/or may be positioned within slots 388 of cross member 342 to add height to displacement components 362/lifts 390.
  • FIG. 10 shows non-limiting example processes for installing a load-coupling in a gas turbine system using an installation apparatus.
  • FIG. 10 is a flowchart depicting example processes for coupling a load-coupling to distinct portions of a rotor of a gas turbine system using a platform portion and trolley(s) of an installation apparatus.
  • the processes may utilize various installation apparatuses, as discussed herein with respect to FIGs. 2A , 3 , and 6-9 .
  • a casing surrounding a turbine of a gas turbine system may be removed. That is, at least a portion of a casing surrounding the turbine or turbine component of the gas turbine system may be removed. Removing at least a portion of the casing of the turbine may expose a diffuser of the gas turbine system. More specifically, removing at least a portion of the casing of the turbine may expose an opening of the diffuser and/or may provide access to the opening of the diffuser.
  • an installation apparatus may be positioned within the diffuser of the turbine system. More specifically, an installation apparatus may be positioned at least partially within and may be substantially coupled to a portion of the diffuser of the turbine system.
  • the installation apparatus may include a plurality of rails releasably coupled to and extending axially through a portion of the diffuser, toward a generator of the turbine system. Additionally the installation apparatus may include at least one trolley positioned on the plurality of rails.
  • the trolley(s) may include a plurality of wheel housings, each wheel housing including at least one wheel slidably engaging a corresponding rail of the plurality of rails, and a cradle component positioned partially within each of the plurality of wheel housings. Additionally, the installation apparatus may include a plurality of supports coupled to the rails.
  • Positioning the installation apparatus at least partially within the diffuser of the turbine system in process P2 may include additional processes as well.
  • positioning the installation apparatus at least partially within the diffuser may include releasably coupling a coupling plate formed on a distal end of each of the plurality of rails to the diffuser of the turbine system.
  • the coupling plate may be releasably coupled to a portion of diffuser configured to receive, contact and/or be couple to the coupling plate formed on each rail of the installation apparatus.
  • Positioning the installation apparatus at least partially within the diffuser may also include contacting each of the plurality of wheel housings of the trolley(s) with a corresponding track formed on and/or coupled to a top surface of each of the plurality of rails.
  • the tracks may guiding the axial movement of the trolley(s), and/or prevent the trolley(s) from undesirably shifting in a radial direction and/or from being removed or falling off of the rails.
  • positioning the installation apparatus at least partially within the diffuser may also include releasably coupling each of the plurality of supports of the installation apparatus to a corresponding rail of the plurality of rails.
  • the plurality of supports may be positioned substantially perpendicular to and below the plurality of rails. Additionally, the plurality of supports may be positioned outside of the diffuser and/or between the diffuser and the generator of the turbine system. The plurality of supports may substantially support and/or stabilize the rails of the installation apparatus.
  • a height of each of the plurality of supports may be adjusted. The height of each of the plurality of supports may be adjusted using an adjustable component formed on an end of each support, opposite the corresponding rail of the plurality of rails. The adjustable component may adjust the height and/or level of the supports, as well as adjust the height, incline, and/or level the respective rails of the installation apparatus that may be coupled to each support.
  • a load-coupling of the turbine system may be positioned on the cradle component of the at least one trolley of the installation apparatus. That is, the load-coupling may be positioned on and/or supported by the cradle component of the trolley(s) by moving the load-coupling through the diffuser adjacent the turbine or turbine component using the trolley(s). Positioning the load-coupling on the cradle component may include inserting a first end of the load-coupling into an opening of the diffuser that is adjacent the turbine of the system, and accessible as a result of removing at least a portion of the casing of the turbine as performed in process P1.
  • the load-coupling may be at least partially supported by placing a portion of the load-coupling on the cradle component of the trolley(s) of the installation apparatus.
  • the load-coupling may then be moved through the opening in the diffuser and/or may be positioned within the diffuser by rolling the trolley(s) of the installation apparatus in a substantially axial direction over the plurality of rails.
  • the load-coupling may be moved toward the generator of the turbine system to position the first end of the load-coupling substantially adjacent and/or axially aligned with the generator section of a rotor of the turbine system, and position the second end of the load-coupling substantially adjacent and/or axially aligned with the turbine section of a rotor of the turbine system.
  • Positioning the load-coupling on the cradle component of the trolley(s) in process P3 may include additional processes as well. For example, once positioned on the cradle component, the radial position of the cradle component of the trolley(s) may be adjusted to axially align the load-coupling with the turbine section and/or generator section of the rotor for the turbine system. Adjusting the radial position of the cradle component of the trolley(s) may include adjusting the position of the cradle component between each of the plurality of wheel housings using a first displacement component included within at least one of the plurality of wheel housings of the trolley(s).
  • adjusting the radial position of the cradle component of the trolley(s) may include adjusting a distance between the cradle component and a cross member fixed to each of the plurality of wheel housings, below the cradle component, using a second displacement component included within the cross member. Adjusting the distance or separation between the cradle component and the cross member may result in the raising/lowering, and/or changing the height of the cradle component, and the load-coupling positioned on the cradle component.
  • the load-coupling positioned on the cradle component of the trolley(s) of the installation apparatus may be coupled to various sections of the rotor of the turbine system.
  • the load-coupling may be coupled to the turbine section of the rotor, and the generator section of the rotor, respectively, to form a continuous rotor of the turbine system.
  • the first end of the load-coupling may be coupled directly to the generator section of the rotor, and the second end of the load-coupling may be coupled directly to the turbine section of the rotor.
  • FIGs. 11-14 show a side view of a portion of turbine 28, diffuser 40, and load-coupling 36 of turbine system 10 undergoing an installation process using installation apparatus 200.
  • the installation process for installing load-coupling 36 within turbine system 10 using installation apparatus 200 may correspond to the processes PI-P4 discussed herein with respect to FIG. 10 . It is understood that similarly numbered and/or named components may function in a substantially similar fashion. Redundant explanation of these components has been omitted for clarity.
  • a portion of casing 42 of turbine 28 for turbine system 10 has been removed. That is, a portion of casing 42 surrounding turbine 28, and turbine section 34 of rotor 20 may be substantially removed and may expose at least a portion of turbine 28, and turbine section 34 of rotor 20. Additionally, and as shown in FIG. 11 , removing a portion of casing 42 of turbine 28 may expose and/or provide access to an opening 44 of diffuser 40 from the side of diffuser adjacent turbine 28. That is, by removing a portion of casing 42, opening 44 of diffuser 40 may accessible and/or exposed from both a side adjacent turbine 28, as well as, a downstream side of diffuser 40 adjacent generator 32. Removing at least a portion of casing 42, as shown in FIG. 11 , may correspond to process P1 of FIG. 10 .
  • installation apparatus 200 may be positioned at least partially within diffuser 40. That is, rails 206, and more specifically coupling plate 212, of installation apparatus 200 may be coupled directly to portion 48 of diffuser 40, and rails 206 may extend axially through diffuser 40. Additionally, supports 222 may be coupled directly to rails 206 to support and/or stabilize rails 206 of installation apparatus 200. In the non-limiting examples, the height of each of the plurality of supports 222 may be adjusted using adjustable component 226 formed on end 228 of each support 222 and contacting surface 46. Specifically, and as shown in FIG.
  • adjustable component 226 may adjust the height and/or level of supports 222, as well as adjust the height, incline, and/or level the respective rails 206 of installation apparatus 200.
  • two trolleys 204 may be positioned on the plurality of rails 26 extending axially through diffuser 40, and may be configured to slidably engage and/or move in an axial direction over rails 206 using wheels 236 (not shown). Positioning installation apparatus 200 at least partially within diffuser 40, as shown in FIG. 11 , may correspond to process P2 of FIG. 10 .
  • FIG. 11 shows load-coupling 36 prior to being inserted, positioned, and/or moved through diffuser 40.
  • load-coupling 36 may be positioned adjacent and/or above turbine 28, and substantially adjacent and downstream of diffuser 40.
  • load-coupling 36 may be supported by a crane (not shown), or alternatively, by a user or operator performing the process of installing load-coupling 36 within turbine system 10 using installation apparatus 200.
  • FIGs. 12-14 show load-coupling 36 being positioned on cradle component 250 of trolleys 204 for installation apparatus 200.
  • FIGs. 12 and 13 shown load-coupling 36 in distinct stages of being positioned within diffuser 40 using installation apparatus 200
  • FIG. 14 shows load-coupling 36 positioned and/or supported on cradle component 250 of each trolley 204 of installation apparatus 200 and positioned between, and axially aligned with turbine section 34 and generator section 38 of rotor 20.
  • FIGs. 12 and 13 show first end 50 of load-coupling 36 being positioned, moving, inserted, and/or passing through opening 44 of diffuser 40, adjacent turbine 28. That is, first end 50 of load-coupling 36 may be inserted into opening 44 of diffuser 40 adjacent turbine 28, opposite generator 32, and may be positioned and/or moved through diffuser 40 (axially) toward generator section 38 of rotor 20.
  • a portion of load-coupling 36 may be received, positioned on, and/or substantially supported by cradle component 250 of trolley 204 for installation apparatus 200.
  • Trolley 204 supporting and/or receiving load-coupling 36, via cradle component 250, may move in an axial direction over rails 106 toward generator section 38/generator 32 to move load-coupling through diffuser 40. That is, and with comparison between FIGs. 12-14 , trolley(s) 204 of installation apparatus 200 may move in an axial direction over rails 106 to position and/or move load-coupling 36 within and/or through diffuser 40.
  • Trolleys 204 may move axially with load-coupling 36 until first end 50 is positioned adjacent generator section 38 of rotor 20, and a second end 52 of load-coupling 36 is positioned adjacent turbine section 34 of rotor 20. Additionally, the radial position of cradle component 250 in each trolley 204 may be adjusted, using displacement components 256, 262 ( see, FIGs. 7 and 8 ), to axially align load-coupling 36 with the adjacent sections of rotor 20.
  • the radial position of cradle component 250 in each trolley 204 may be adjusted to axially align first end 50 of load-coupling 36 with generator section 38 of rotor 20, and to axially align second end 52 of load-coupling 36 with turbine section 34 of rotor 20, respectively ( see, FIG. 14 ).
  • Positioning load-coupling 36 on cradle component 250 of trolleys 204 in installation apparatus 200 to move load-coupling 36 through diffuser 40, as shown in FIGs. 12-14 may correspond to process P3 of FIG. 10 .
  • load-coupling 36 may be coupled to generator section 38 and turbine section 34 of rotor 20, respectively. More specifically, first end 50 of load-coupling 36 may be coupled directly to generator section 38 of rotor 20, and second end 52 of load-coupling 36 may be coupled directly to turbine section 34 of rotor 20. Load-coupling 36 may be coupled to turbine section 34 and generator section 38 respectively to transfer and/or translate the rotation of rotor 20 at and/or downstream of turbine section 34 to generator section 38 to drive generator 32 ( see, FIG. 1 ).
  • load-coupling 36 is coupled to turbine section 34 and generator section 38 of rotor 20
  • installation apparatus 200 may be uninstalled, uncoupled, and/or removed from diffuser 40 prior to beginning operation of turbine system 10.
  • Coupling load-coupling 36 to turbine section 34 and generator section 38 of rotor 20 of turbine system 10, as shown in FIG. 14 may correspond to process P4 of FIG. 10 .
  • the technical effect is to provide installation apparatuses that are capable of aiding in the installation of load-couplings within turbine systems that have minimal or tight clearance (e.g., 2-3 meters) between a diffuser and a generator.
  • Approximating language may be applied to modify any quantitative representation that could permissibly vary without resulting in a change in the basic function to which it is related. Accordingly, a value modified by a term or terms, such as “about,” “approximately” and “substantially,” are not to be limited to the precise value specified. In at least some instances, the approximating language may correspond to the precision of an instrument for measuring the value.
  • range limitations may be combined and/or interchanged, such ranges are identified and include all the sub-ranges contained therein unless context or language indicates otherwise. "Approximately” as applied to a particular value of a range applies to both values, and unless otherwise dependent on the precision of the instrument measuring the value, may indicate +/- 10% of the stated value(s).
  • Parts list gas turbine system 10 compressor 12 air 18 compressed air 20 combustor 22 fuel 24 combustion gases 26 turbine 28 rotor 30 electrical generator 32 turbine portion 34 load - coupling 36 generator portion 38 diffuser 40 casing 42 flow path opening 44 surface 46 portion 48 first end 50 second end 52 installation apparatus 100 platform portion 102 trolley 104 rails 106 distal ends 108 distal ends 110 coupling plate 112 track 118 top surface 120 support 122 first end 124 adjustable component 126 second end 128 threaded screw 130 stabilizer foot 132 wheel housing 134 wheel 136 recess 138 inner surface 140 cross member 142 projections 144 fasteners 146 apertures 148 cradle component 150 contact surface 152 curved geometry 154 displacement component 156 aperture 158 side surface 160 distinct displacement component 162 aperture 164 bottom surface 166 installation apparatus 200 platform portion 202 trolley 204 rail 206 first distal end 208 second distal end 210 coupling 212 track 218 supports 222 first end 224 adjustable component 226 second end 228 wheel housing 234 adjacent wheels 236 recess 238 inner

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EP17461629.2A 2017-10-30 2017-10-30 Appareil d'installation de couplage de charge d'un système de turbine et procédé d'installation de couplage de charge dans un système de turbine Active EP3477066B1 (fr)

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EP17461629.2A EP3477066B1 (fr) 2017-10-30 2017-10-30 Appareil d'installation de couplage de charge d'un système de turbine et procédé d'installation de couplage de charge dans un système de turbine
JP2018201396A JP7233882B2 (ja) 2017-10-30 2018-10-26 負荷結合部設置装置およびこれを用いたタービンシステムにおける負荷結合部を設置する方法

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Cited By (1)

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US20230349305A1 (en) * 2022-05-02 2023-11-02 General Electric Company Tooling assembly and method for removal of a rotor blade

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EP0051178A1 (fr) * 1980-10-27 1982-05-12 Carrier Corporation Appareil et méthode pour l'assemblage et le désassemblage

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US4451979A (en) * 1980-10-27 1984-06-05 Elliott Turbomachinery Company, Inc. Assembly and disassembly apparatus for use with a rotary machine
US7976266B2 (en) * 2006-06-30 2011-07-12 Solar Turbines Inc Power system
JP5010499B2 (ja) * 2008-02-28 2012-08-29 三菱重工業株式会社 ガスタービン及びガスタービンの保守点検方法
EP2655808B1 (fr) * 2011-02-09 2017-08-02 Siemens Aktiengesellschaft Procédé pour retirer un corps de palier du rotor d'une turbine à gaz et prolongement d'arbre tubulaire

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0051178A1 (fr) * 1980-10-27 1982-05-12 Carrier Corporation Appareil et méthode pour l'assemblage et le désassemblage

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20230349305A1 (en) * 2022-05-02 2023-11-02 General Electric Company Tooling assembly and method for removal of a rotor blade
US12025022B2 (en) * 2022-05-02 2024-07-02 Ge Infrastructure Technology Llc Tooling assembly and method for removal of a rotor blade

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