Changes at the top of a runner can lead to thrust bearing problems

Journal Article · Mon Jun 01 04:00:00 EDT 1992 · Hydro Review; (United States)

OSTI ID:5590584

O'Kelly, F

Many designers and operators of vertical hydroelectric turbines have occasionally experienced difficulty with the [open quotes]durability[close quotes] of machine components in the area at the top of the runner and bottom of the headcover. These components, including baffle plates and cover plates, sometimes break up or fail due to centrifugal forces, vibration, and/or bending associated with operation, all of which contribute to metal fatigue. Design errors and damage from high velocity water flow can also lead to failure. If components positioned beneath the headcover fail to perform properly, they can cause changes at the top of the runner. This, in turn, can lead to elevated thrust bearing temperatures and, ultimately, bearing damage. The durability of these machine components is an important issue because if a component fails while in service, damage may occur to the headcover and runner. In addition, removing the headcover to repair or replace components in this area of the machine can be a major expense. Operators and maintenance staffs should watch for indications that the cover plate or headcover baffle plate is breaking up. Changes in headcover pressure and in thrust bearing temperatures that cannot be explained otherwise are likely to be the first indication of this kind of trouble. During shutdowns, plant personnel should use inspection ports or other access holes that can be easily opened in the headcover to see if cover plates are intact.

• OSTI ID: 5590584
• Journal Information: Hydro Review; (United States), Journal Name: Hydro Review; (United States) Vol. 11:3; ISSN HYREE8; ISSN 0884-0385
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

13 HYDRO ENERGY
130700* -- Hydro Energy-- Power-Conversion Systems
BEARINGS
DYNAMIC LOADS
EQUIPMENT
FLUID FLOW
HYDRAULIC TURBINES
MACHINERY
MECHANICAL VIBRATIONS
TURBINES
TURBOMACHINERY
WEAR