If you’re using electricity, it’s most likely coming from a gas turbine. These large machines perform a big workload and must operate effectively and efficiently. One way to ensure peak performance is to do preventive maintenance. Continue reading to understand why gas turbine preventative maintenance is important.
The Importance of Regular Inspections
Having technicians regularly inspect the gas turbines will allow them to collect important performance information. These factors include:
- Pressure
- Temperature
- Vibration
You’re creating a baseline of information technicians can refer to when performing inspections or repairs. Any anomalies will stand out, and they can prioritize attending to them.
Regular inspections will also let you know how your gas turbine is operating. Is it working effectively or below average? Gas turbine checks will bring the answer to light. They allow you to figure out ways to optimize your gas turbine by determining which performance-enhancing upgrades will work.
Don’t Let Cost Deter You
Looking at the upfront cost of gas turbine preventive maintenance may seem overwhelming. You can consider skipping a month or two to save money, but this may end up costing you more in the end. You could deal with an expensive repair that you could’ve avoided or worse. For example, there are common gas turbine blade defects that you could miss.
Don’t forget that unplanned maintenance is inconvenient. You’ll have to shut down the machinery, which is costly.
A Little About Gas Turbine Repairs
Modern materials make it easier to inspect and repair gas turbines. Nondestructive methods allow inspectors to look at the components without taking any pieces apart. They provide excellent ways of examining and improving the hot areas due to the high temperatures of a gas turbine. Now technicians can safely check all the regions.
Repairs also deal with refurbishment methods. The mechanical parts of the gas turbine undergo high temperatures and stress, meaning they’ll need updates. Repairs can include changing designs or materials, welding to rebuild geometry, and applying a new protective coat to surfaces.
Gas turbine preventive maintenance is important because it extends the life of the turbine and identifies major and minor issues. Not to mention, it improves the large machine’s productivity and increases reliability. There truly are no downsides.
