|
Voith Turbo: Technical failures in the energy industry are not only difficult to avert but also extremely
costly + + + Worldwide Innovation Ensures Triple Safety for Turbo Machinery
Technical failures in the energy industry are not only difficult to avert but also extremely costly. In order to ensure the availability and reliability of steam turbines for energy generation, Voith Turbo has developed the Trip-Shut-off Module (TSM). This world innovation is based on hydraulic triple-redundancy, and protects against undesirable and consequently expensive turbine switch-offs.
The new TSM safety device is a reliable supplement for electronic speed monitoring. The TSM name affix "2-o-o-3" - two-out-of-three - refers to the triple redundancy of the module. It avoids damage to turbines operating at overspeed when the load to be driven suddenly disappears. As such failures also present a danger to man and environment, steam turbines are subject to strict safety regulations. These include the reliable shut-down of the turbine in an emergency.
At an overspeed of approximately ten percent, an electronic overspeed protection device is activated. The TSM has three identical on/off solenoids with slide valves and immediately disconnects the pressure oil of a hydraulic cylinder by means of a return spring. Thanks to the spring action, the quick-action stop valve is closed within less than 0.3 seconds and the process is stopped. In the event of an involuntary release of the process, for example owing to a broken cable, unnecessary and, most of all, expensive downtimes are the result. This is precisely the situation when the Voith TSM comes in to protect the system.
A major advantage of this new development is the monitoring of the module during operation with the help of redundant position sensors. The switch position of the three systems is instantly reported to the control technology. Statistically, the probability of a complete failure is extremely low - one failure in 100 000 years.
The Trip-Shut-off Module is especially suited for large steam turbines with outputs of up to 1 000 MW, and it can be retrofitted to existing installations. The TSM can be tested during operation without causing any interruption and allows the exchange of electronic components. The module has already been ATEX-certified for the European market. FM/CSA approval for the North American market has been applied for. Additionally, efforts are underway to acquire international SIL (Safety Integrated Level) standard.
Voith Turbo, the specialist in hydrodynamic drive, coupling and brake systems for use in road, rail, industrial and marine applications, is a division of Voith AG.
Voith sets standards in paper, energy, mobility and service markets. Founded in 1867, Voith currently has a workforce of 37,000 employees, sales of EUR 4 billion and over 270 locations worldwide. It is one of the largest family-owned enterprises in Europe. For
more information: www.voithturbo.com
 |
 |
Posted Dec
12, 2008 |
|
The triple redundancy of the TSM ensures an extremely high availability and reliability of turbines. |
The Trip-Shut-off Module is especially suited for large steam turbines with outputs of up to 1 000 MW, and it can be retrofitted to existing installations.
|
|
|
+
+ Media Links + +
For more information, media details or
sample copies please contact
wilhelms@pennwell.com
www.sicking.de
|